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Straight Truck Vs. Semi Truck: Which One Is Better?

Straight Truck

Are you thinking about which truck configuration will suit your needs? For those of you planning on purchasing your truck for your business, there are many considerations you need to keep in mind. Many fleet operators often weigh the pros and cons of semi-trucks and straight trucks.

Both trucks have unique advantages and can be used in different capacities and perform various tasks. But if you’re wondering if a straight truck or semi-truck is a better option, then continue reading through the article.

First, let’s see the main differences between both trucks.

Straight Truck:

The straight truck is like a tractor truck, which means a single frame. They resemble U-Haul trucks, but you can’t separate their front and back. You can use them for moving furniture, boxes, machinery, and other similar items.

A Semi-Truck:

A semi-truck, on the other hand, is a big rig also known as “semi-trailers,” “18-wheelers,” or “tractor-trailer.” The trailer part has two-three axles usually, but some heavy hauling commercial semis have up to five axles. These trailers have a large storage area and haul large shipments.

Straight Truck Vs. Semi-Truck: 

These comparisons are made based on cost, maintenance, and profit margins.

The straight truck, because of its simple design, will deliver:

  • Reduced start-up and operational costs
  • One single fixed cargo box
  • Minimum moving parts
  • Reduced maintenance expenses

Operational Costs:

The truck is ideal if you’re looking to invest a small capital. You’ll also be able to learn to drive it more quickly than a semi, which only a CDL driver can operate. If you run your own business, you’ll need less time to train your employees, which will mean reduced expenses.

However, a semi-truck is more flexible and can bring in higher yields per load as it can haul more at one time; if you can afford to support the higher costs of running a semi, this may be the best option for you.

Capacity:

The straight truck is a Class 7 truck meaning that its single chassis rates up to 33,000 lbs gross vehicle weight. This is appropriate for various jobs, but a semi-truck is a Class 8 vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating of 80,000 or more. This means that semi-trucks have more capacity and can haul different loads.

Still, higher loads do require more certification for the driver and the truck, leading to added costs. So we suggest you calculate your expected costs carefully, keeping in mind the loads and drivers you’ll be dealing with to decide if a semi or a straight truck is ideal for you.

Whether you want to transport small or heavy loads, you can always count on Gillson trucking to get the job done.  

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