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When looking for a new or used dump truck, buyers must find the right model for the job at hand in order to have greater efficiency and safety on the job. Dump trucks are actually more complex than they initially appear to be, especially when it comes to the physical part of the bed emptying process. What is not always known is that there are more than one type of these vehicles available for purchase. Depending on the needs of each buyer, a side dump truck may be preferable to a standard rear version.

Rear vs. Side

The most commonly used dump truck, as well as the one most companies use, is the rear dump model. With this vehicle, the platform can be raised through the use of hydraulics that allow the contents to pour under the bottom of the unhinged tailgate. Rear dump trucks are well equipped for most jobs; however, there are some situations where this offload version is difficult to use, such as when working in narrower areas or with overhead power lines. Side dump models use a tilting base that is hydraulically raised from the side, allowing the contents of the vehicle to be unloaded without the platform reaching too high a height. These types are generally found on an articulated chassis; The dump bed is separate from the driver’s cab, which is beneficial in a number of different ways.

Side discharge safety

Standard rear dump trucks have a number of safety issues of concern if they are not operated properly. The two most important concerns when using these vehicles are accidental contact with overhead power lines when the platform is raised and the possibility of the vehicle tipping over when unbalanced load is unloaded. Both concerns have been addressed and both can be avoided with the use of side discharge models, making them ideal for non-standard use or in situations with less than ideal work environments, such as working on uneven terrain. Because the platform can be lifted only by its width rather than its length, the center of gravity rarely changes to the point where the truck tips over to one side. Also, since the bed only rises to its width, there is little chance of accidental contact with power lines.

Side discharge efficiency

In addition to the many safety features that come with using a side dump dump truck, companies that own them have also experienced increased efficiency. Not only can these units carry as much or sometimes more than their rear discharge counterparts, they are also easier to unload and can complete the job in tighter spaces.

Because the platform can be raised until it is fully upright, something that is impossible with a standard rear dump truck due to the threat of tipping, the contents of the platform are more fully unloaded. This is especially convenient when transporting wet or sticky materials, as well as other loads that are difficult to remove from standard dump truck beds.

Another feature of these vehicles is the ability to tip over while the unit is moving slowly in order to spread material over an area. Since operators don’t even have to get out of the cab to lift the platform, the job is completed more efficiently with many more loads being delivered in a shorter period of time.

Before making the purchase of a new truck, it would be worthwhile for buyers to consider whether a side discharge version of this truck would be more useful or not. With more options for safe unloading, as well as greater ease of use, these vehicles can help streamline any construction process.