What Is a Tandem Dump Truck?

A tandem dump truck is a heavy-duty vehicle used to transport loose materials like sand, gravel, dirt, or construction debris. The term "tandem" refers to the truck having two sets of drive axles, one behind the other, which provides better traction, stability, and the ability to carry heavier loads compared to single-axle dump trucks. These trucks are commonly used in construction, road maintenance, and other industries where large volumes of material need to be moved efficiently.

Key Specifications and Capacities of Tandem Dump Trucks

1. Weight of a Tandem Dump Truck

The weight of a tandem dump truck varies depending on its make, model, and configuration. Typically, an empty tandem dump truck weighs between 20,000 to 25,000 pounds. The weight can increase depending on additional features or customizations.

2. Dimensions of a Tandem Dump Truck

1. Width: A standard tandem dump truck is generally around 8.5 feet wide.

2. Length: The length of a tandem dump truck usually ranges from 20 to 26 feet, depending on the bed size and chassis.

3. Height: The height of a tandem dump truck can vary, but most are between 10 and 12 feet tall.

3. Capacity of a Tandem Dump Truck

The capacity of a tandem dump truck is measured in cubic yards and tons, depending on the material being hauled.

1. Cubic Yards: A typical tandem dump truck can hold between 10 to 16 cubic yards of material. This can vary slightly based on the specific truck and the type of material.

2. Tons: A tandem dump truck can generally haul between 13 to 25 tons. The exact amount depends on the type of material and how much it weighs per cubic yard.

4. Hauling Capacity

1. Gravel: A tandem dump truck can usually carry between 12 to 20 tons of gravel, depending on the size of the truck and the specific gravity of the gravel.

2. Dirt/Soil: The truck can hold approximately 12 to 15 cubic yards of dirt, translating to around 18 to 22 tons, depending on moisture content.

3. Other Materials: For other materials like sand or construction debris, the truck’s hauling capacity will be similar, ranging between 10 to 15 cubic yards or 15 to 20 tons.

5. Tandem Axle Weight Capacity

Tandem axles allow the truck to distribute the load more evenly, providing a higher weight-carrying capacity. Typically, a tandem axle dump truck can carry up to 34,000 pounds per axle group. This means the total load weight the truck can legally haul is around 68,000 pounds, including the weight of the truck itself.

6. Cost of a Tandem Dump Truck

The cost of a tandem dump truck can vary widely based on the brand, model, and features. New models typically range from $100,000 to $200,000, while used models can be found for $50,000 to $100,000, depending on condition and age.

Conclusion

Tandem dump trucks are essential tools in the construction and transportation industries, known for their ability to carry large loads efficiently. Understanding their specifications, from weight to capacity, is crucial for selecting the right truck for your needs. Whether you’re hauling gravel, dirt, or other materials, a tandem dump truck offers the power and stability to get the job done efficiently.