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Heavy Duty vs Medium Duty Trucks

Jul. 16 2021 Comparison By International Trucks

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If you plan on investing in a new commercial rig for your company, you’ll have a lot of choices to make. The first major decision being whether you need a medium duty or heavy duty truck. Fortunately for you, we’ve created the following guide comparing and contrasting the two classifications. Keep reading to learn more, and call Carolina International Trucks at one of our locations throughout South Carolina. We are proud to serve the beautiful city of Columbia, South Carolina.

Understanding the Classifications

There are eight classifications of commercial motor vehicles. These classifications are organized into the following categories: light duty, medium duty, and heavy duty. These categories are based on the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). The GVWR represents the maximum weight a vehicle can safely carry. Keep in mind that the GVWR takes into account the weight of the rig along with passengers and cargo.

Medium Duty Classification

Medium duty trucks are often seen in models like dump trucks, emergency vehicles, and delivery vehicles. They fall into one of the following classes:

  • Class 4: GVWR of 14,001-16,000 pounds.
  • Class 5: GVWR of 16,001-19,500 pounds.
  • Class 6: GVWR of 19,501-26,000 pounds.

Heavy Duty Classification

Heavy duty trucks are used most often for transporting the heaviest loads, like fifth wheel trailers, boats, and construction materials for worksites. They must be one of the following classes:

  • Class 7: GVWR of 26,001 to 33,000 pounds.
  • Class 8: GVWR over 33,001 pounds.

Should I get a Medium Duty or Heavy Duty Truck?

The right category for your operation is going to depend on a few different factors. Start by considering how much weight you need to haul. You want to try to strike a good balance. Don’t overestimate your needs and pay for more power than you need. However, you definitely don’t want to underestimate your needs and have your productivity damaged by weight limitations.

Next, consider the lifespan of the vehicle. If you need the rig to last for several years, factor in whether or not your company is going to grow. For example, right now you may only need a medium duty truck. However, in a few years, you may need a heavy duty truck for your hauls.

Finally, consider your budget and how the vehicle handles. The larger size means heavy duty trucks are harder to handle than medium duty ones. Medium duty trucks are also more affordable than heavy duty models.

Are you ready to see some heavy duty and medium duty trucks for sale? Stop by Carolina International Trucks today. We are proud to have multiple locations throughout South Carolina near Columbia. We are here to help you find the best commercial vehicle for your operation!