Tandem Dump Trucks 101

Dump trucks have been a key staple in the construction industry for over 100 years. Many different types have been invented throughout their history to adapt to the ever-changing construction world. They have advanced considerably since the first models as technology began to increase and projects were being implemented faster. Here at Tucker Trucking, we use tandem dump trucks, which are arguably the most efficient type of truck to use for construction projects both big and small. Let us give you the “101” on tandem dump trucks, so you know why we only use the best!

The History of the “Tandem”

Did you know that “tandem” refers to vehicles with three axels, one in the front and two in the rear? They were invented somewhat recently, back in 1926. Originally they were developed by Hendrickson Motor Co. in Chicago. Brothers Robert and George Hendrickson, along with their father Magnus, designed the first tandem truck suspension. This was a system of springs and shock absorbers that were made specifically to withstand the load of the tandem dump truck. To this day, the company manufactures these suspension types to be used on trucks all across the world, as they continue to be a leading manufacturer in the industry.

Different Axle Types

A tandem dump truck can have different numbers of axles, depending on the load it needs to carry. Different axles create different mobility and strength capabilities, making them useful for various types of projects. Below are the two most common types of axles you will find on a tandem dump truck.

Tri-Axle Dump Truck

These trucks are more lightweight and have better mobility. However, better mobility does create a decrease in the amount of material they can carry. Tri-axle dump trucks are great for construction yard work, where the natural materials like sand, dirt, and gravel tend to weigh less.

Did you know? Most tri-axle dump trucks have a fourth axle that can be used to increase weight and can be raised and lowered for convenience!

Quad-Axle Dump Truck

As the name suggests, four axles can be utilized for this type of dump truck—two powered and two non-powered ones. Since there are four axles, this increases the amount of material the truck can carry, but decreases the mobility. You will often see these types of trucks used on projects along the interstate, as they don’t have the ability to maneuver through a construction site like tri-axles do. 

How Much & What Can A Tandem Dump Truck Haul?

Tandem dump trucks can haul up to 17 tons of material using a quad-axle dump truck, or 13 tons using a tri-axle.  Whether it is filled with sand, concrete, minerals, dirt, or other loose material (aggregates)—these trucks are essential to our construction projects. Check out our last blog on what kind of aggregates are best for your specific construction project!  

Popular Brands of Tandem Dump Trucks

Construction companies utilize a handful of great truck manufacturers to find the best tandem dump truck in the industry. These brands include Freightliner, International, Kenworth, Mack, Peterbilt and Sterling (a subsidiary of Freightliner). Depending on what kinds of projects a company will take on, there are many different truck types offered by all of these brands to help tackle them such as severe-duty, medium-duty, on-highway, light-duty, electric, and more.

At Tucker Trucking, our preferred dump truck manufacturer is Mack. Founded in 1900, Mack trucks made themselves a “household name” in the construction industry and are sold all across the world. Having been around for years, their constant technological innovation with their tandem dump trucks makes them a hard-to-beat competitor.

The Tandem Axle—A Tucker Trucking Favorite

Now that you know all about tandem axle dump trucks, see one in action! If you’re looking for a construction contractor with vehicles that are top quality and efficient, look no further! Every day we use our tandem axle dump trucks to deliver, pick-up, and haul material across the Des Moines metro. Our brand new fleet of Mack tandem axle dump trucks are ready to serve you and your construction project. The best part? Our GPS tracking system lets you see when materials are being delivered to your job site in real time!

Contact us today to learn more about our fleet and get a move on with your construction job.