This list of truck types is intended to classify trucks and provide links to articles about the different types. The three main classifications of road trucks by weight are light trucks, medium trucks and heavy trucks. In addition, there are specialized very heavy trucks and transport vehicles, such as heavy trucks for transporting oversized loads and heavy off-road trucks used in mining, which are too large to be used on roads without an escort or special permits. Light trucks are larger than mini trucks, but smaller than trucks averages.
In the U.S. In the US, they are defined as those who weigh between 00001 and 14000 pounds (0001 to 6350 kg). Heavy trucks are class 7 and above. Semi-trailer trucks go by many names: 18-wheeled vehicles, tractor-trailers, or simply semitrailers.
They consist of a tractor unit and a detachable trailer. They are the workhorses of long-distance freight transport. Nowadays, there are many different heavy-duty and diesel vehicles on the roads. In the United States, truck classification systems are used to help identify what large vehicles are designed for.
When it comes to weight limits for truck classifications, these are numbers that vary depending on the state. The Department of Transportation is an excellent resource that commercial truck owners and operators can use to search for a particular state's weight limits. The first three classes cover non-commercial vehicles. These can include SUVs, minivans and light trucks.
Large platforms and other heavy commercial vehicles are classified starting from this section. While most semitrailers and heavy vehicles belong to class 8, it is possible to set the maximum limit on a case-by-case basis. This is done using the Federal Bridge gross weight formula. Class 1 to 3 trucks are known as light vehicles or work trucks that have lower weight ranges but are still used for a variety of tasks.
Class 1 encompasses compact trucks and utility vehicles that are frequently used for small repair businesses and other tasks. Class 2 trucks are defined as full-size trucks that are commonly used for moderately heavy loads, such as those seen in landscaping or construction. Class 3 is one step higher and are often referred to as heavy-duty trucks, as they have greater towing and load capacity, making them practical for transporting materials or trailers. Classes 4 to 6 are considered medium-duty trucks.
Often, these trucks are used in commercial applications. You may see them being used in construction, moving services, deliveries, or even as emergency response vehicles. Class 6 trucks may even have specialized structures or bodies to adapt to the industries in which they are used. Heavy duty trucks of classes 7 and 8 are what those who work in the industry to carry a large amount of weight are looking for. This classification helps distinguish types of trucks based on maximum weight, function and regulatory standards, ensuring that each type of truck is used efficiently and safely in accordance with its design parameters.
The advantage of this type of truck is the enormous time savings it entails, both in terms of loading and unloading. Each type of truck plays a fundamental role in different sectors, from light trucks for quick tasks to heavy tractors for large transports. Each type of truck has a specific function, designed to perform tasks ranging from transporting goods across the country to assisting in emergency operations. It should also be remembered that trucks are subject to other regulations in addition to those attributed to other types of vehicles.
When driving around town, you're likely to see several different types of trucks, from huge industrial trucks to the light truck in someone's driveway.
