Choosing the right commercial truck is crucial for ensuring your cargo is transported safely and efficiently. Among the various types of trucks on the market, the decision often comes down to choosing between a tractor unit and a rigid chassis. Your choice will depend largely on the industry and the type of cargo you need to transport.
Here’s a handy guide to help you understand the differences and determine which option is best for your business.
Tractor Unit
A tractor unit is a vehicle specifically designed to pull a separate trailer which carries the cargo. This tractor-trailer setup spreads the load’s weight across several axles and offers great manoeuvrability. The versatility makes them suitable for a wide range of industries and cargo types.
Uses
Tractor units are commonly used for the following purposes:
Long-distance haulage: Ideal for transporting goods over long distances, they are designed for motorway travel and can cover vast areas efficiently.
Heavy and oversized loads: The ability to attach different types of trailers means tractor units can handle a variety of loads, including heavy machinery, oversized items, and bulk materials.
Flexible transport solutions: Businesses that require different types of trailers for various cargo can benefit from the flexibility of tractor units. Switching trailers is relatively easy, so you can adapt and respond to different transportation needs.
Rigid trucks
Rigid trucks have a fixed trailer permanently attached to the truck chassis. They are often used for specific types of cargo, and their compact size makes them ideal for navigating city streets. The most popular types of rigid trucks are usually dropside or tipper models.
Uses
Rigid trucks are commonly used for the following purposes:
Local Deliveries: Perfect for short-distance and urban deliveries, as they can easily manoeuvre around cities.
Specialised Transport: Many rigid trucks are designed for specific purposes, such as rubbish collection and construction material transport.
Construction and Service Industries: They are often used in industries where the cargo is loaded and unloaded frequently, such as construction, landscaping, and utilities.
Which Should You Choose?
Choosing between a tractor unit and a rigid truck depends on your specific industry requirements and the type of cargo you transport.
If your business transports goods across long distances, a tractor unit is likely the better choice due to its efficiency and capacity. We have a wide range of Renault trucks for sale, featuring some excellent tractor unit options that align with your operational requirements.
For businesses that operate primarily within a city or local area, rigid trucks offer better manoeuvrability and ease of use. We have a wide range of Isuzu trucks for sale, renowned for their reliability and performance, with rigid chassis options to suit your business needs.
Get your truck with Norfolk Truck & Van
Ready to invest in a commercial truck? At Norfolk Truck & Van, we have a wide range of tractor units and rigid trucks to meet your specific needs. Contact us today to find the perfect vehicle for your business.
For the Norfolk depot, call 01603 253 300. For the Suffolk depot, call 01473 834 200. For the London depot, call 0208 804 1266.