Last Updated on February 16, 2026

While a dump truck might seem like a one-size-fits-all machine, not all models perform the same — especially when it comes to hauling and unloading different materials. Dump trucks are specialized pieces of heavy-duty equipment, and some are far better suited for specific tasks than others.

For example, the ideal dump truck for hauling gravel and dirt for a small landscaping job will differ from one designed to lay asphalt with precision for a paving project.

Understanding the differences in dump truck sizes, types and features will help you select the right model from your rental provider when the time comes.

Read on to explore the types of dump trucks available so you can find the perfect fit for your next project.

How to Know What Type of Dump Truck You Need

At its core, a dump truck is a vehicle with an open-box bed that transports materials from one place to another. The bed — or the dump body — is tilted by a hydraulic cylinder system to unload materials onto the ground or into another vehicle.

To choose the dump truck that is right for your project, consider the following.

• Material Type and Weight: Will the dump truck carry heavy rocks and debris, like in mining or construction? Or are you moving lighter materials, like snow and landscaping debris? Will you be filling the dump body with hazardous debris, like residential waste? You’ll need to match the truck’s strength and horsepower to what you’re hauling.
• Type of Terrain: Will the dump truck be carrying a full load on unpaved or weakened roads? If so, you may need a model that offers ample stability.
• Safety Regulations: Review and follow all local and OSHA regulations. For example, provisions of 29 CFR 1926.601 apply to end dump trucks traveling between jobsites on public highways.

What Are the Parts of a Dump Truck That Affect Performance?

There are many types of dump trucks, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. To select the right one, it is important to understand how key components impact performance.

• Chassis: The chassis forms the truck’s backbone and is typically made from high-strength steel for durability. Its design influences not just strength and stability, but it also varies to accommodate different load capacities, terrains and needs.
• Bed Style: Different dump truck types have different styles of beds (or boxes). These beds are also usually made of steel. However, aluminum, stainless steel and composite materials are sometimes used to reduce weight, boost fuel efficiency and resist corrosion.
• Horsepower: Horsepower varies widely among dump trucks, so it is important to choose an appropriate level for the job. Sufficient power is needed for heavy loads and rough terrain, but too much increases fuel consumption and costs. Balancing power and efficiency are key to managing both performance and expenses.
• Transmission Type: Transmission type also affects both vehicle handling and driver experience. Manual transmissions offer better control when multiple gears or precise control over torque and speed are required. Automatic systems ease shifting and reduce fatigue. Automated manual transmissions blend elements of both systems.
• Number of Axles: Axles bear the weight of the vehicle and distribute the load. More axles increase payload capacity and may help with legal weight compliance, but they can also reduce fuel efficiency and maneuverability.

6 Types of Dump Trucks

While there are many dump truck sizes, styles and models featuring various dump trailer types, six of the most common are highlighted below.

To choose one that is suited to your project, consider factors like load capacity, material size and weight, project scope, site conditions and applicable regulations.

1. Standard Dump Trucks

Standard dump trucks, by far the most commonly used type, are versatile and relatively easy to maneuver due to their relatively short wheelbase. They also have a fixed chassis with the dump body mounted on the frame. A hydraulic ram tilts the front of the bed up to dump materials while a hinge holds the back down. A tailgate swings either up or down to release materials. Standard dump trucks have a single front steering axle and one or two rear axles.

When to Use a Standard Dump Truck:

• Small- to medium-sized projects, such as road construction, agricultural projects and residential construction.
• Projects in tight spaces that require maneuverability over hauling capacity.

2. Transfer Dump Trucks

A transfer dump truck, also called a truck and transfer, is a standard dump truck and a separate cargo container that’s pulled behind. It gets its name because the load in the trailer — the B box — is transferred to the truck bed — the A box — to be dumped. The trailer itself does not have its own dumping system.

An advantage of the transfer dump truck system is that the trailer can stay stationary while the truck moves the load, offering greater flexibility and capacity. Transfer dump trucks have nearly double the capacity of a standard dump truck.

When to Use a Transfer Dump Truck:

• Projects in regions with strict highway weight regulations.
• Projects that require high hauling capacity, such as snow removal.

3. Side Dump Trucks

A side dump truck unloads its cargo by tilting the dump body to one side using a hydraulic system. This allows for quicker discharge than a standard dump truck. With a lower center of gravity, side dump trucks can be less prone to tipping compared to other types of dump trucks.

When to Use a Side Dump Truck:

• Projects that need fast dumping and stability, especially on uneven or soft ground.
• Tight project sites that prevent rear dumping.

4. End Dump Trucks

One of the more common dump trailer types, the end dump truck is a combination of a semi-truck and trailer.

Unlike transfer dump trucks, the trailer has its own hydraulic system that tilts the box to unload materials from the rear, hence the name “end dump.” Like standard dump trucks, a tailgate regulates flow during unloading.

However, end dump trucks can be less stable than other models, making them less suitable for rugged applications and uneven ground.

When to Use an End Dump Truck:

• Projects on paved terrain with large, heavy loads that need to be dumped quickly.

5. Bottom (Belly) Dump Trucks

A bottom dump truck, or belly dump, is a semi-trailer with a trailer that unloads cargo from the bottom of the trailer through one or more gates. These gates use a clamshell mechanism to discharge the load in a controlled, even flow.

This setup allows the truck to spread material in a long, continuous line — called a windrow — while moving forward.

Another version of this model is the double belly dump truck, which includes an additional belly dump trailer pulled in tandem for increased capacity and efficiency.

When to Use a Bottom Dump Truck:

• Projects that require precise material distribution over long stretches, such as road construction, mining and agriculture.

6. Superdump Trucks

When it comes to dump truck sizes, superdump trucks are among the largest available. A “super dump” is a specialized dump truck with a dump body mounted on the frame and typically 4–7 axles. One of the axles is a trailing axle that can be extended to increase the truck’s overall length, significantly boosting carrying capacity and allowable payload under bridge and weight laws.

Depending on axle count and length, these multi-axle dump trucks can haul up to 80,000 pounds, rivaling some dump trailer types. When not needed, the trailing axle can be retracted, giving the truck better maneuverability in tight dump sites.

When to Use a Superdump Truck:

• Projects that need to move very large loads but need the maneuverability of a single-unit truck.
• Projects where road weight compliance is a concern.

Find the Right Dump Truck Types at Herc Rentals

With so many types of dump trucks, dump truck sizes and dump trailer types available, there is sure to be a model to match virtually any job requirement.

When you need to expand your fleet by renting a reliable dump truck, turn to Herc Rentals. We have a selection of dump trucks and dump trailers from leading manufacturers, equipped with various features to meet your project needs.

Herc Rentals can also help you train your operators, to ensure safety and maximize efficiency.

Browse our full lineup of dump trucks and trailers, to see how Herc Rentals can help you complete your next project on time and on budget. Or speak with one of our specialists today at 1-800-432-6215 for expert guidance and personalized support.