Start with the job the truck must do
Tippers suit bulk materials such as sand, aggregate and soil. Tractor heads suit long-distance haulage with a semi-trailer. Rigid cargo trucks suit general freight. Specialised trucks such as mixers and tankers are built for one task.
Drive configuration
A 4×2 truck has two axles with one driven. A 6×4 has three axles with two driven. An 8×4 has four axles with two driven. More axles spread the weight but add cost and weight.
Weights explained
- GVW: maximum weight of a rigid truck with its load.
- GCW: maximum weight of a tractor head and trailer together.
- Kerb weight: weight of the empty vehicle.
- Chassis loading capacity and payload: the load the chassis or body can carry.
- Body volume: space in a tipper body, measured in cubic metres.
Do not assume that a manufacturer rating is the legal load you can carry on Kenyan roads.
Questions to ask before you buy
- What is the exact model code and configuration, and can I see its specification sheet?
- Is the truck available now, or on order, and when?
- What exactly is included in the quoted price?
- What warranty applies, and is it provided in writing?
- How will the truck be delivered?
- Where will it be serviced, and how are spare parts supplied?
- Which registration and inspection requirements apply? Confirm these with the relevant Kenyan authorities.
Ready to ask? Request a quotation.