A semi-truck, also known as a truck or lorry, is a large vehicle for transporting goods.
These semitrailers are essential equipment for companies that rely on cargo shipping to make a profit. If you’re curious to learn more about these rigs, why they are named so, their different types, sizes, importance, and much more, here is all the details you may refer to.
Why is it Called Semis?
Semis are so named because they fall between standard trucks and trailers in terms of size. What sets them apart from other trucks is their ability to detach the trailer, making them more versatile for different types of transportation.
The word “semi” is derived from the Latin word “semi re,” which means “half.” This likely refers to the fact that semi-trucks only haul half of a load compared to a full-sized trailer.
The other half of the load is typically carried by another truck, which is why semi-trucks are often seen in pairs. This system is more efficient than hauling two full-sized trailers, as it reduces the amount of time and fuel required to make the trip.
In addition, it allows for more flexibility when loading and unloading the trucks, as each one can be unloaded independently. As a result, the term “semi” has become synonymous with efficiency and flexibility in the trucking industry.
How Did the Term Semi-Truck Come About?
The term “semi-truck” is a bit of a misnomer. These massive vehicles are actually more properly called “tractor-trailers.”
The name derives from the fact that they consist of two distinct sections: the tractor, which houses the engine and cab, and the trailer, which is where the freight is carried.
Semi-trucks are capable of hauling extraordinarily large loads, and they play a vital role in the economy by transporting goods across long distances.
Though they vary in size and configuration, all semi-trucks share one common trait: they’re extremely powerful machines. With several hundred horsepowers at their disposal, these trucks are capable of traveling at high speeds and carrying tremendous weight.
Given their potential for danger, it’s no wonder that semi-trucks are heavily regulated by both state and federal law. But despite the risks they pose, semi-trucks play an essential role in our society, and there’s no doubt that we rely on them every day.
Different Types of Semi-Truck
There are various types of semi-truck with different sizes:
1. Day Cab – Day cabs are the most common type of semi-truck. They are typically used for short-haul trips and don’t have sleeper berths.
2. Flatbed – Flatbed trucks transport items that can’t be stacked, such as lumber or pipe.
3. Tanker – Tanker trucks are used to transport liquids or gases.
4. Reefer – Reefer trucks transport perishable items, such as food or flowers. They have a refrigerated compartment that keeps the cargo cool.
5. Dump Truck – Dump trucks transport materials that need to be dumped, such as sand, gravel, or dirt.
6. Car Hauler – Car hauler trucks are used to transport cars. They have a flatbed with ramps that can be lowered to load and unload the vehicles.
7. Conestoga – Conestoga trucks are used to transport oversized loads. They have a canvas top that can be raised or lowered to cover the cargo.
8. Livestock Truck – livestock trucks are used to transport live animals. They have special compartments that keep the animals safe and comfortable during transport.
9. Possum Belly – Possum belly trucks transport hazardous materials. They have a secondary compartment that is used to store hazardous materials.
10. Lowboy – Lowboy trucks are used to transport heavy equipment. They have a low-profile bed that allows the equipment to be loaded and unloaded easily.
11. Step-Deck – Step-deck trucks transport tall or bulky items. They have a raised platform at the front of the truck that can be lowered to ground level.
There are many different types of semi-trucks, but they can generally be divided into two categories: heavy-duty and light-duty.
Heavy-duty trucks are the largest and most powerful type of semi-truck. They are typically used for hauling freight that is too large or too heavy for light-duty trucks.
Light-duty trucks are smaller and less powerful. They are typically used for hauling smaller loads or for making local deliveries.
Semi-trucks come in a variety of sizes, from small delivery trucks to massive freight haulers. The size generally depends on its purpose and is usually measured in terms of its length, width, and height.
- The length of a semi-truck is typically between 20 and 30 feet. However, some are even longer, measuring up to 53 feet.
- The width of most semi-trucks is typically between 8 and 10 feet though they can also measure up to 12 feet.
- The height of a semi-truck is typically between 13 and 14 feet, but some of them measure up to 16 feet.
Axle weight
The axle weight of a semi-truck is the weight that is carried by each axle. The total axle weight of a semi-truck is typically between 20,000 and 34,000 pounds. However, some semi-trucks have a total axle weight of up to 80,000 pounds.
Fuel capacity
The fuel capacity of a semi-truck is the amount of fuel that the truck can hold. The fuel capacity of a semi-truck is typically between 100 and 300 gallons, but some of them have up to 1,000 gallons.
How Different is a Semi-Truck from a Tractor-Trailer?
The terms “semi-truck” and “tractor-trailer” are often used interchangeably, but there is a difference between the two.
A semi-truck is a truck with a cab and an engine but no trailer. A tractor-trailer, on the other hand, is a truck that has both a cab and a trailer. The trailer is usually filled with freight, and a semi-truck pulls the tractor-trailer.
Semi-trucks and tractor-trailers are both large vehicles, but tractor-trailers are typically larger and can carry more weight.
There is also a difference between semi-trucks vs. full trucks:
- Semi-trucks typically have two axles, while full trucks have three or more axles.
- Semi-trucks are usually shorter than full trucks, measuring anywhere from 20 to 53 feet long. On the other hand, full trucks can be up to 72 feet long.
- Semi-trucks typically have a cargo capacity of 10,000 to 80,000 pounds. On the other hand, full trucks can have a cargo capacity of up to 200,000 pounds.
- Semi-trucks are typically used for hauling freight that is too large or too heavy for light-duty trucks. Full trucks are typically used for hauling extremely large or heavy loads.
Overall, semi-trucks play a vital role in the economy by transporting goods across long distances. They are an essential part of many businesses as they help to keep the shelves stocked at our favorite stores.
Semi-trucks also play a crucial role in delivering food and other necessities to remote areas. Without them, many people would be unable to access the items they need.
In addition, semi-trucks play an essential role in disaster relief efforts. They are often used to deliver supplies to areas that have been affected by natural disasters.