From construction sites to food industries, vocational trucks are the backbone of countless industries. The stats back this claim up: Trucking supports 8.4 million jobs. With no decline in sight for the truck industry, the right vocational truck can be the difference between a good investment and a great one.
In this article, we will explore the most popular vocational trucks and their uses so that you can make the right choice.
WHAT ARE VOCATIONAL TRUCKS?
A vocational truck is a vehicle designed for specific tasks or work. They are built on a truck chassis and come in either self-propelled or trailer-mounted configurations.
Unlike the general semi-trucks that are built to transport cargo over long distances, vocational trucks are built to serve particular functions in specific industries. The fields and industries where vocational trucks are highly utilized include but are not limited to:
- Construction
- Waste management
- Food and beverages
- Service and utility
- Emergency services, eg fire and rescue
- Towing
Additionally, vocational trucks are typically used within a limited area, such as a city or job site, and are equipped with features that enhance their ability to perform specific jobs.
COMMON VOCATIONAL TRUCKS
All vocational trucks are built differently and it is important you know that. The type of vocational truck you buy is largely based on what you want to use it for. Let’s explore some common vocational trucks:
1. DUMP TRUCKS
If you have ever been to a construction site, chances are high that you have seen a dump truck lying around somewhere. Dump trucks are used to haul loose materials like gravel, sand, and dirt. They are also popular during winter periods to clear snow. They come in different sizes depending on the kind of project you are handling.
2. CARGO VANS
Popular in the logistics industry for transporting goods, equipment, catering, and maintenance, cargo vans come with ample storage space. They also have secure storage compartments and shelves which make them an ideal choice for local deliveries.
3. GARBAGE TRUCKS
Just like the name suggests, garbage trucks are built for one purpose–collecting waste. They transport waste for disposal or recycling and are built to handle heavy loads.
Garbage trucks have a hydraulic system that helps to lift, compress, and store waste. Municipalities and private waste management companies rely on these trucks to keep cities clean and efficiently manage waste.
4. BUCKET TRUCKS
Equipped with an extendable boom arm, bucket trucks lift workers to heights so that they can perform elevated tasks safely. With a bucket truck, maintenance workers can perform tasks like repairing streetlights or powerlines, or trim tall trees.
5. FIRE TRUCKS
Fire trucks are emergency response vehicles used to assist firefighters during fire emergencies or rescue operations. They are built with tools like ladders, hoses, and tanks to aid in extinguishing fires.
6. TOW TRUCKS
These are vehicles commonly used by towing companies and roadside assistance to safely transport vehicles in different situations such as vehicle breakdowns or accidents. Tow trucks are versatile and can handle a range of vehicles, from small cars to larger trucks, depending on the type.
7. CONCRETE TRUCKS
Also known as cement mixers, concrete trucks are used in construction for mixing cement. These trucks come in different sizes, but have a rotating drum that mixes concrete while in motion, ensuring that it arrives at the site in the right consistency and ready to pour.
8. FLATBED TRUCKS
Flatbed trucks have an open, flat platform used for transporting large or oversized equipment or construction materials that would not fit in regular enclosed trucks. They have no sides or roof, allowing for easy loading and offloading of machinery.
9. REFRIGERATED TRUCKS
Refrigerated trucks are also called reefer trucks and are used to transport perishable goods. They have an inbuilt refrigeration system which helps them maintain specific temperatures during the period of use. Industries that use reefers include food, pharmaceutical, chemical, and floral.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT VOCATIONAL TRUCK WITH INSPIRED FUNDING
One of the most common questions for newcomers to the trucking industry is: Which truck should I buy? Choosing the right vocational truck depends on the industry you want to serve. For example, if logistics and transportation are your goals, a cargo van might be the perfect fit. However, if waste management is your target, then a garbage truck would be ideal. It is all about understanding the basic uses of these trucks and how they fit into your business and goals.
Beyond choosing the right truck is the need to pick the right financing partner. Trucks are a great investment. Paying outright for a vocational truck can eat deep into your pocket, and we don’t even recommend that. At Inspired Funding, our goal is to help you secure the best financing plan for you, whether you are buying a commercial truck, semi-truck, or dump truck. Our terms are flexible and the application process is seamless, ensuring that you get your truck business in motion with ease and confidence.
