Important Considerations for Choosing a Dump Truck

When you make your living in the construction industry, the state and quality of your equipment is the key to overall project success. This is why it’s crucial you always know what you’re looking for, should the time come to purchase replacement machinery. Dump trucks often require additional contemplation as they must not only be maneuverable for the road, but also strong enough to withstand the stress of carrying certain materials. These are some important considerations for choosing a dump truck to help you navigate this process.

Overall Physical Condition

The last thing you want to purchase is a product that’s in no condition to perform. Unfortunately, this could very much be the case if you don’t properly inspect the vehicles you’re interested in. While this is more of an issue when buying used trucks, it’s always the best practice to look over the body for any signs of wear, damage, or poor maintenance. This can ensure you’re getting a functioning machine as well as saving you a lot of money in the long run.

Body Material

Take note of what type of material the body of the dump truck is made from. Though these pieces of equipment are traditionally made from steel, aluminum has quickly become an effective substitute. Lighter than the former material, aluminum components are great for reducing the truck’s overall weight and lessening mechanical stress. However, aluminum isn’t nearly as durable as steel. So, you should consider what resources you’ll be transporting.

Maximum Weight Capacity

Another important consideration for choosing a dump truck is the maximum amount of weight the bed can reasonably hold at a given time. Not only is this regulation put in place to help preserve the condition of the truck, but it also maximizes safety during transport. The heavier a dump truck gets, the harder it is to maneuver safely. As such, it’s crucial to find a dump truck within your average load capability that doesn’t exceed state guidelines.

Ability To Be Modified

Additionally, make sure the truck you buy can be modified to suit your specific needs for the job. There are several popular types of dump truck modifications and accessories for you to potentially use, and all of them can improve performance in one way or another. In fact, customizations such as tarp systems and bed liners have even been linked to raises in overall efficiency.