The Different Types of Semi-Trucks & Trailers

  • The Different Types of Semi-Trucks & Trailers

    13

    Aug

    The Different Types of Semi-Trucks & Trailers

    If you’re considering a career as a truck driver, you might be surprised to find out how many types of trucks and trailers there are — and corresponding types of trucking jobs.

    1. Flat Roof Sleeper

    This type of truck has a sleeping compartment for drivers and is larger and more expensive than other semi trucks. Compared to mid-roof and raised-roof sleeper trucks, flat roof sleeper trucks have the least amount of headspace.

    2. Mid-Roof Sleeper

    These units may have a bed, storage compartments, and even a TV. Mid-roof sleeper trucks have a rounded and slightly higher roof than flat-roof sleeper trucks. Drivers have extra room to rest in the truck during breaks.

    3. Raised-Roof Sleeper

    The roomiest of the roof sleeper trucks, the raised-roof sleeper may have a side-storage tower and an additional 12-18 inches of space, compared to mid-roofs.

    4. Day Cab

    Day cabs are used to deliver loads during the day for routes that require no more than one day of travel. The trucks are typically smaller and less-expensive, compared to other semi-trucks. They have less space for drivers and fewer axles.

    5. Slope-Nosed Truck

    These trucks have a short, rounded front and are able to haul heavy loads and longer trailers. Slope-nosed trucks are better able to endure bumpy roads.

    6. Conventional Nose Truck

    This type of truck is less common today, due to its low fuel mileage. However, they were designed for easy access to the diesel engine.

    Types of Trailers for Semi-Trucks

    Semi trucks may be outfitted with the following trailers:

    • Box or dry van trucks
    • Dry bulk cargo trucks
    • Dump or tipper commercial trucks
    • Flatbed trucks
    • Lowboy semi-trailers
    • Refrigerator and reefer semi-trucks
    • Tanker or fuel trucks

    How To Choose The Right Truck

    If you’re considering purchasing a truck, be sure to consider what kinds of jobs you’d like to do — one-day deliveries or longer ones? What geographical areas will you be driving in? If you plan on driving through mountainous regions, you’ll need a semi-truck with extra gears to prevent an accident. Other factors to consider include horsepower, transmission type, fuel efficiency, and resale value.

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