Trucks are designed to make hard jobs easy. Who wants to use a dolly or forklift when you can put your cargo in the back of your truck and hit the road? Truck drivers carry the largest workloads possible, are constantly on the move, and face several restrictions while driving that help keeps our country safe. Buying a new or used semi-vehicle is a big step, whether your first one or the next model in the line. The most important decision you are making is what truck you will buy. Big Ugly Truck can help you find the perfect semi truck for sale in Atlanta.
Semi-trucks are one of the most popular vehicles on the road today. They come in all shapes, sizes, and configurations. They can be used for hauling freight or transporting passengers.
Semi-trucks are also known as 18-wheelers, tractor-trailers, or big rigs. Semi-trucks are used for commercial purposes because they have a longer wheelbase than cars or smaller trucks. Semi-trucks have a very long wheelbase between 20 feet to 80 feet, depending on what cargo needs to be transported.
1. Know and Understand State Restrictions
The first thing you need to know is what the state restrictions are for the state you live in. These laws can vary from state to state and may even differ from county to county within the same state. There are also federal laws that apply to semi-trucks as well. You can find out more about these restrictions on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s website.
Weight Restrictions
Weight restrictions for semi trucks vary by state, but most have a weight limit of 80,000 pounds. Some states have stricter regulations than others, so make sure that you check out the regulations before purchasing your semi-truck.
Width Restrictions
Width restrictions vary depending on what type of vehicle you purchase and how many axles it has.
Height Restrictions
You will need to know if your truck has any height restrictions. This is needed so that you don’t damage overpasses or bridges as well as other vehicles on the road with your semi-truck. It is not uncommon for a back road to have low bridges that a semi-truck can’t possibly make it through.
Length Restrictions
You will also need to know if there are any length restrictions for your vehicle. You should always be aware of this because it could mean that there need to be more lanes available for you on the highway or interstate. There could also be problems if you try to cross certain bridges with a longer trailer attached behind you.
Axle Restrictions
Axles provide stability to your vehicle, so you must ensure that they are strong enough to support your load. If not, then it can cause damage in the long run. You will need to know how much weight each axle can carry and if they meet the weight limits for your state.
2. How Much Horsepower Will You Need?
Another important thing is your truck’s horsepower because it impacts how fast you can go and how much weight it can hold too. The more horsepower you have, the faster you can accelerate and go up hills without losing momentum or speed! For some, it’s all about horsepower. Others, however, look at torque more than anything else. Regardless of what you’re after, it’s important that you know how much horsepower or torque you’ll need so that you can find the right truck for your needs.
3. Wheelbase Size
The wheelbase size of a semi-truck will determine how much weight it can carry. A longer wheelbase means the truck can haul more weight without damaging itself or having problems on the road. It also means that there will be less strain on the engine and transmission when going up hills and down hills and making turns onto different roads and highways. A shorter wheelbase is easier to maneuver on back roads, etc.
4. Transmission
You have to consider the transmission for your semi-truck. Semi-trucks have the option of being either automatic or manual transmission. Automatic transmissions are easy to use and can be shifted without any problem. They are also cost-effective in the long run but much less durable than manual transmissions. On the other hand, a manual transmission requires skill and experience to drive properly. It is a bit more expensive than an automatic transmission, but it is also more durable and reliable.
5. Will It Haul What You Need?
If you want to buy a semi-truck, you should consider its hauling capacity, fuel efficiency, and performance capabilities. Two types of engines are available in these trucks: diesel and gasoline. Diesel engines are more efficient in terms of fuel consumption than gasoline engines; however, they produce more emissions and noise than gasoline engines when used in combination with heavy loads on highways or freeways during hot summer days. On the other hand, gasoline engines produce less emissions and noise than diesel engines while driving during hot summer days with heavy loads; however, they require more maintenance in the long run. At times, this decision is entirely based on the cost of diesel versus gasoline.
Big Ugly Truck
Look before you leap. Knowing what you need when it comes to trucks will help you understand your budget as well as where you can find the best truck in your price range. On top of that, it will help with the selection process by narrowing down your options. For example, if you are looking for a Freightliner for sale in Atlanta, then you probably aren’t interested in a Western Star truck. Remember, finding a truck that fits your needs isn’t just about how nice it looks outside—it means assessing what makes a good truck great and how those characteristics work for you. Big Ugly Truck can help answer your questions and help you determine what truck is best for your needs.