Understanding the Weight of a 28-Foot Truck: From Empty to Loaded

When discussing the weight of a 28-foot truck, the specifics can vary widely based on the truck model, configuration, and cargo load. This article aims to provide a detailed overview of how and why the weight fluctuates. Whether you're a professional transporter or simply curious about the logistics of truck sizes, this guide will help clarify the nuances of truck weights.

Typical Empty and Loaded Weights of a 28-Foot Truck

A typical empty 28-foot box truck typically weighs between 10,000 to 12,000 pounds, or approximately 4,500 to 5,400 kg. This range is based on standard configurations and models. However, the loaded weight of such a truck can significantly increase, ranging from 26,000 to 33,000 pounds, or about 11,800 to 15,000 kg, depending on the cargo.

It's essential to always refer to the manufacturers' specifications for precise weight information on a specific truck model, as the weight can differ based on additional factors.

Factors Affecting the Weight of Your 28-Foot Truck

The weight of a 28-foot truck can also be influenced by factors such as the make, model, and additional features of the truck. For example, a U-Haul 26-foot trailer, which is similar in size and design, typically weighs a little over 13,000 pounds when empty, with full fuel. A bigger truck, such as a Budget Moving truck, can weigh a little over 16,000 pounds under the same condition. These weights include the full fuel load but do not account for any additional cargo.

The size and type of tires also play a crucial role. For instance, trucks equipped with 22.5-inch wheels tend to be heavier. Conversely, U-Haul offers trucks with 19.5-inch wheels, which are slightly lighter. The gross vehicle weight (GVW) rating for a U-Haul 28-foot truck is 22,000 pounds, while Budget trucks can go up to 26,000 pounds. These ratings help determine the total weight limit of the vehicle when fully loaded.

Types of 28-Foot Trucks and Their Weight Capacity

Different types of 28-foot trucks can have varying capacities. For instance:

Box Trucks: These trucks are ideal for moving items that need to be secured and protected. An empty box truck can weigh around 10,000 to 12,000 pounds, while a loaded one can be around 25,000 to 30,000 pounds. Flat Bed Trucks: These are used for loading and transporting irregularly shaped items. The weight can range from 10,000 to 16,000 pounds when empty and can increase to 30,000 to 40,000 pounds when loaded. Dump Trucks: These are designed for transporting loose materials like dirt, sand, or gravel. The weight can vary but generally, an empty dump truck can weigh around 12,000 to 18,000 pounds, and a loaded one can reach 25,000 to 35,000 pounds.

Other configurations such as roll-up side doors, barn doors, and peak doors can also add to the overall weight due to their additional structural components.

Conclusion

Understanding the weight of a 28-foot truck is crucial for efficient transportation and compliance with legal weight limits. From empty to loaded, the weight can fluctuate greatly depending on the truck model, configuration, and cargo. Always refer to the specific manufacturer's details for accurate weight information, ensuring that you comply with local regulations and optimize your transportation needs.