Learn more about used semi-trucks for sale at Ritchie List
As one of the most crucial components of the transportation industry, truck tractors and semi-trucks play a significant role in our global economy. These class 7 and 8 trucks transport large loads across long distances and become an integral part of global supply chain, helping businesses move goods and products across the country and beyond.
With such an extensive impact over global transportation, there’s many different types and classifications to these transport trucks including axle configurations, cab types, towing capacity and more. Each feature and configuration provide unique applications for certain industries. If you’re looking to upgrade your existing semi truck, or looking to becoming a truck driver, Ritchie List is your top choice in your hunt for a big rig. We carry the top brands, a variety of models, axle configurations and at great prices too!
What is a semi-truck?
Semi-trucks, also known as tractor-trailers or 18-wheelers, are heavy-duty trucks designed to transport goods and products across long distances. The term "semi-truck" refers to the combination of the tractor unit, which contains the engine and driver's cab, and the trailer, which carries the cargo. The type of cargo can vary from dry goods, refrigerated goods, up to larger loads such as vehicle and heavy machinery transport. Semi-trucks typically have a gross vehicle weight of over 33,000 pounds and require a commercial driver's license (CDL) to operate.
Axle configurations
The type and weight of cargo being hauled will determine the best axle configuration as load limits are calculated by its axles. When browsing our inventory of used truck tractors, you’ll find single axle trucks, tandem axle (most common for long haul transport), tri axle and quad axle truck tractors which are used for specialty hauling such as heavy equipment transport.
Types of semi truck cabs
As mentioned earlier, there are many configurations to a truck tractor. The most common feature you’ll come across for most trucks, and especially transport trucks are the cab type. For most transport trucks, the two main cab types are sleeper cabs or day cabs.
Sleeper cabs
Sleeper cabs, also known as the conventional cab for truck tractor is the most common cab type. Since most heavy haul transport involves far distances, these cab types are designed with a sleeping compartment in the rear section of the cab. Depending on the brand and model of your used semi-truck, the features and size of the sleeping cabin will vary. Some models like Volvo sleeper cabs boasts luxury creature comforts in the sleeping quarters. When browsing our inventory of sleeper cab semi trucks, you’ll find a variety of axle configurations such as tandem axle sleeper cabins, tri axle sleeper cabins, and much more and at a great price!
Day cabs
Day cab trucks offer a simpler cabin as they are designed for shorter and more urban hauls, hence the name “city cab”. Given that these will be used in more urban settings, they offer better visibility (due to smaller cab size) and are easier to maneuver vs the sleeper cabs.
Which semi trucks can tow the most?
If you're in for the heavy haul, class 8 trucks have the highest towing capacity with a maximum towing weight of 80,000lbs. Most manufactures have an array of models that fit within this class however it should be noted that every municipality, state and or province have their own rules and regulation for GVWR, so its essential to identify the specific model specifications before you begin your transport cross country.
Here's a list of some popular semi trucks that you’ll find on Ritchie List which offer a towing capacity of up to 80,000lbs:
Peterbilt 579
The Peterbilt 579 is a popular Class8 semi-truck known for its fuel efficiency andperformance. It has a maximum towing capacity of up to 80,000 pounds and is often usedfor long hauls and heavy-duty applications.
Kenworth T880
The Kenworth T880 is another Class 8 semi-truck that is commonly used for heavy-duty applications. It has a maximum towing capacity of up to 110,000 pounds and is known for its durability and reliability.
Freightliner Cascadia
The Freightliner Cascadia is a popular Class 8 semi-truck that is known for its aerodynamic design and fuel efficiency. It has a maximum towing capacity of up to 80,000 pounds and is often used for long hauls and freight transportation.
Volvo VNL
The Volvo VNL is a Class 8 semi-truck that is known for its power and performance. It has a maximum towing capacity of up to 90,000 pounds and is often used for heavy-duty applications such as hauling construction equipment and large machinery. Volvo is known as a leading luxury car manufacturer, and when browsing for the VNL models, you'll come across luxurious cabins and other features inspired by the Volvo auto industry.
Important checklist for buying used semi trucks
Narrowed down your piece of equipment? Now you're ready for the next step; inspection. It's always important to know what you are looking for when checking out a used truck. You'll be lucky to come across lightly used trucks but at a high price, but some semi trucks with higher mileage should always be inspected carefully so you'll be confident to take it out on the road the next day. Check out our blog to learn more about industry inspection tips for buying a used semi truck.
