Looking to buy a used dump truck? Learn more about factors to consider when buying one!
This guide highlights general features and specifications of dump trucks, which are frequently sold in our online auctions. We have dump trucks available from many of our locations across the country including Washington, Texas, California, Utah, and more.
What is a dump truck?
A dump truck, similarly called a dumper truck or tipper truck, is any truck equipped with an open-box dump bed that tilts or tips backwards. The dump bed is connected to power and has components allowing it to transport, tilt, and dump loose material such as sand, gravel, boulders, dirt, demolition debris, etc. A dump truck allows a large amount of material to be unloaded at a time. While hauling materials to a different location is a primary function of a dump truck, it’s equally important that the truck is capable of quickly releasing all the material once it reaches its destination.
Pictured: 2013 Freightliner 114SD TriA Dump Truck
What is a dump truck typically used for?
Dump trucks are often used for excavation, earthmoving, roadwork, demolition applications, mining applications, landscaping, construction, snow removal, and more.
What are the different types of dump trucks?
Dump trucks come in a wide variety. The two main categories are on-road dump trucks, with an average weight capacity of 23-30 tons, and off-road dump trucks, with an average weight capacity of 30+ tons. On-road dump trucks also include a subcategory of trailer dump trucks.
What are on-road dump trucks?
Standard Dump Truck
A standard dump truck features a truck chassis with a dump bed mounted to its frame. This gives it increased maneuverability but decreased payload capacity compared to other dump trucks.
Pictured: 2007 Peterbilt 378 12 - Yard TriA Dump Truck
Transfer Dump Truck
A transfer dump truck features a standard dump truck with a dump trailer attached to it. The trailer is detachable but requires the truck’s controls for dumping. Adding a transfer trailer is one way to increase the payload of a dump truck, and it allows two types of materials to be transported without getting mixed together. However, keep in mind, the combined weight of the truck, trailer, and materials will be higher than the truck’s payload capacity.
Trailer Dump Trucks
Within the on-road dump truck category, lies the trailer dump truck subcategory. A semi-trailer dump truck is a truck tractor with three axles towing a detachable, two-axle dump trailer. It has increased payload compared to a standard dump truck, and has greater ease with tipping. However, because it carries so much weight, it’s not meant for working on steep grades or driving over rough, uneven terrain.
Semi-trailer dump trucks have a variety of trailers they can pull. These dump trailers include end dumps, bottom dumps, double and triple bottom dumps, and side dumps.
What are popular brands and models of on-road dump trucks?
Popular brands of on-road dump trucks include Freightliner, Kenworth, Peterbilt, International, Mack, and Western Star.
Popular models of on-road dump trucks include:
• Kenworth T800, T880, W900
• Peterbilt 389, 567
• Mack Granite
• Freightliner 114SD, M2 106
• Western Star 6900, 4700
• International HV & HX Series
What are off-road dump trucks?
Articulated Dump Trucks
An articulated dump truck, or ADT, is an off-road dump truck frequently used in large construction and earthmoving projects. Also known as articulated haulers or rock trucks, they’re able to handle moving loads carefully across rough terrain and can handle extreme conditions like soft soil or slippery, frozen surfaces. Generally, ADTs have a 25-45 ton carrying capacity, although certain brands sell models with a capacity outside of that range.
Their name comes from the center point of articulation, allowing for articulated steering. When the operator turns the steering wheel, the cab turns first which forms a 90-degree angle with the dump bed. Then, the dump bed follows once the angle reaches 90 degrees. This allows for greater maneuverability on rough terrain, a tighter turning radius, and improved flexibility. ADTs include six-wheel drive as well, which helps aid the tight turns.
Pictured: 2011 Caterpillar 740B 40T 6x6 Articulated Heavy Haul Dump Truck ADT
What are popular brands and models of off-road dump trucks?
Popular brands of off-road dump trucks include Caterpillar, John Deere, Terex, and Volvo Construction.
Popular models of off-road dump trucks include:
• Caterpillar 725, 745 GC
• John Deere 410 P-Tier
• Volvo A35G, A60H
• Terex TA400
For more info on a specific dump truck selling on auction, please email auctionservices@bidadoo.com or call 206.442.9000.
