What is a Rigid Truck?

 

And why they’re so useful

A rigid truck (or rigid lorry), features a fixed cab and trailer, meaning the vehicle consists of a single, non-articulated unit. This design contrasts with HGVs, where the cab (tractor) and trailer can pivot and detach. Due to this fixed structure, driving a rigid truck is similar to operating a larger version of a standard car or van. However, the larger size of rigid trucks results in a greater turning circle, necessitating manoeuvres like three-point turns for tight spaces.

 

What size is a rigid truck?

Rigid trucks come in a range of sizes, typically categorised by their gross vehicle weight (GVW). They can be classified as light, medium or heavy, each serving different logistical needs:

• Light rigid trucks: These trucks have a GVW of less than 8,500 kg. They are suitable for lighter loads and often used for urban deliveries and smaller-scale transport needs.
• Medium rigid trucks: With a GVW ranging from 8,500 kg to 15,000 kg, these trucks balance capacity with manoeuvrability, making them an effective choice for medium-scale transportation.
• Heavy rigid trucks: These have a GVW of more than 15,000 kg and are designed for heavy-duty transport tasks. They are commonly used in industries requiring substantial cargo capacities.

The number of axles on a rigid truck also varies:

• Two-Axle Rigid Trucks: Typically, these have a maximum GVW between 7.5 tonnes and 18 tonnes.
• Three-Axle Rigid Trucks: These can support a GVW of up to 26 tonnes.
• Four-Axle and Above Rigid Trucks: These can handle a GVW of up to 32 tonnes, with some configurations reaching up to 44 tonnes.

Despite sharing some of the driving characteristics of a van or car, drivers of rigid trucks still need to hold a Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) licence.

 

How many pallets fit in a rigid truck?

As you might imagine, the capacity of a rigid truck in terms of pallet accommodation depends on its size. Generally, an 18-tonne rigid truck can hold around 12 UK standard pallets or 18 Euro pallets. The configuration of the pallets, whether they are stacked or not, and the exact dimensions of the truck’s cargo area will affect the total number of pallets that can be transported.

 

How much weight can a 7.5 t lorry carry?

A 7.5-tonne rigid is the most popular choice for many businesses due to its balance of capacity and manageability. The actual carrying capacity of 7.5 tonne rigid will depend on its make and model, but typically, it can carry between 3 to 4 tonnes of cargo. This capacity is calculated by subtracting the unladen weight (the weight of the empty truck, which is generally around 3 tonnes) from the gross vehicle weight of 7.5 tonnes.

These trucks often come in different configurations, such as hard-sided (box) vehicles or curtain-sided to accommodate various types of loads. Most 7.5-tonne trucks are equipped with a tail lift for easier loading and unloading.

The standard internal dimensions of these lorries are:

Length: 6 to 7 metres
Width: 2.4 to 2.5 metres
Height: 2.2 to 2.4 metres

When calculating the maximum load capacity, several factors must be considered:

• Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW): This is the total weight the vehicle can legally carry, including the vehicle itself, the cargo, the driver and fuel. For a 7.5-tonne truck, the GVW is 7,500 kg.
• Axle Weight Limit: The limits of the front and rear axles must be considered when determining the maximum load.
• Payload: This is the maximum weight of the cargo itself, obtained by subtracting the weight of the empty vehicle from the GVW.

While they may not offer the capacity of articulated lorries, rigids are the workhorses of a wide number of industries including construction, mining and agriculture. Ideal for both regional and local deliveries, their manoeuvrability makes them well-suited to multiple-stop deliveries and navigating tight city streets.

To learn more about X2 (UK)’s range of rigids and how they can help your business operate more efficiently, you can contact us here.