What Makes a Heavy-Duty Truck?

Heavy-duty trucks are vehicles widely used in several industries for the transportation of various goods and products. Some of the most common types of heavy-duty trucks are tractor-trailers, boom trucks, and dump trucks. These vehicles serve various purposes depending on their design and are used by different professionals across many fields.

However, not every large vehicle can be considered a heavy-duty truck. This type of truck should meet specific classification requirements before it can be used for heavy-duty transportation.

How are Heavy-Duty Trucks Classified?

Different vehicles, including trucks, are classified based on their gross vehicle weight ratings (GVWR). This rating is used as a safety standard to prevent overloading.

GVWR is considered the maximum weight a vehicle can have, including its fuel, passengers, and freight. This maximum weight is determined by the vehicle’s manufacturer based on the materials used on the truck, such as axle strength, tire capability, brake efficiency, and frame.

Importance of a Truck’s GVWR

Trucks are strictly classified based on their GVWR to ensure safety. Failing to comply with a truck’s maximum weight may lead to safety problems, including the following:

• Brake failure
• Tire strain
• Ineffective suspension components

Knowing a vehicle’s maximum acceptable weight is also essential to guarantee the appropriate maintenance of the vehicle. A truck’s GVWR may also need to meet certain specifications for permit requirements, weigh station guidelines, and license levels.

Truck Classes Based on GVWR

There are a total of eight classes in which a truck can be classified. These classes are divided based on a vehicle’s minimum and maximum GVWR.

Light-Duty Trucks

Classes one to three are made up of light-duty trucks. These are vehicles that can weigh up to 14,000 pounds and are often used as city delivery trucks and box trucks. Heavy-duty pickup trucks may also be grouped under this classification.

Medium-Duty Trucks

Trucks that can weigh from 14,001 up to 26,000 pounds belong to classes four to six and are considered medium-duty vehicles. Some of the vehicles that fall under this classification are fire trucks, school buses, and beverage trucks.

Heavy-Duty Trucks

Lastly, heavy-duty trucks are grouped into classes seven to eight. These vehicles have a GVWR ranging from 26,001 to more than 33,001 pounds and are typically used for long-haul transportation.

Sometimes, class nine is included to contain trucks that have a GVWR of more than 60,000 pounds. These vehicles are often classified as super-heavy or special-duty trucks.

Acquire Your Heavy-Duty Truck From a Trusted Distributor

If you need quality heavy-duty trucks for your business, turn to none other than Civic Merchandising Inc.. We carry trucks made by Volvo, a leading truck manufacturer in the world. Contact us to learn more about our exceptional products.