10-wheel dump truck: capacity in tonnes, in m³ and dimensions
The 10-wheel dump truck is a 6x4 with 3 axles. Its body usually holds 16 to 22 m³, and on UEMOA roads its gross weight is limited to 26 tonnes, truck included. Here are its capacities in tonnes and in m³, and its dimensions, with figures to back them up.
10-wheel dump truck: why "10 wheels"?
The manufacturer talks about a 6x4. In the field, people say "10-wheeler". It is the same truck:
- At the front: 1 steering axle with 2 wheels.
- At the rear: 2 drive axles with twin wheels, i.e. 8 wheels.
That makes 10 wheels in total. The 6x4 is the most common configuration for site dump trucks: enough traction for tracks, and a truck that is still short and manoeuvrable.
Capacity in m³ of the 10-wheel truck
The volume depends on the size of the body. To calculate it, multiply its length, width and height. Here are the bodies of the Howo 6x4 versions in our catalogue:
| Body dimensions | Volume |
|---|---|
| 5.2 m × 2.3 m × 1.35 m | 16 m³ |
| 5.4 m × 2.3 m × 1.45 m | 18 m³ |
| 5.8 m × 2.3 m × 1.5 m | 20 m³ |
Depending on the version, bodies of up to about 22 m³ are available. The 20 m³ body is very common: we present it in detail in our model of the week, the Howo 6x4 20 m³ dump truck.
Capacity in tonnes: what the truck can carry
As for all trucks, there are two answers: the technical capacity and the weight allowed on the road.
Technical capacity
On the Howo 6x4 trucks in our catalogue, the front axle is rated at 9 tonnes and the two rear axles at 2 × 16 tonnes, i.e. 41 tonnes. This total includes the weight of the truck, and the 10 tyres of size 12.00R20 only carry about 35 to 37 tonnes in total, depending on the model. Off the road, always respect the technical gross weight given by the manufacturer for your version.
The weight allowed on the road
In UEMOA countries, regulation no. 14/2005 limits the gross weight of a 3-axle rigid truck to 26 tonnes, truck, fuel and driver included. A Howo 6x4 dump truck weighs about 12 to 13 tonnes empty, depending on the body and equipment. That leaves about 13 to 14 tonnes of authorised load.
Always ask for the exact empty weight of your version. Guinea is not part of UEMOA: in Conakry and the rest of the country, check the national rules.
Cubic metres and tonnes
A full body does not weigh the same depending on what it contains. Orders of magnitude for a 20 m³ body filled to the brim:
| Material | Weight per m³ (approx.) | Weight of 20 m³ (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Dry earth | 1.2 t | 24 t |
| Dry sand | 1.6 t | 32 t |
| Dry gravel | 1.7 t | 34 t |
| Wet sand | 1.9 t | 38 t |
On the road, 13 to 14 tonnes of dry sand is about 8 to 9 m³. For laterite, the weight varies from one quarry to another: have a first load weighed. Think in tonnes, not just in cubic metres.
Dimensions of the 10-wheel dump truck
Dimensions vary a little depending on the version and the body. Here are those of the Howo 6x4 dump trucks in our catalogue:
| Feature | Howo 6x4 dump truck |
|---|---|
| Overall length | 8.4 to 8.75 m |
| Width | 2.55 m |
| Height | 3.45 to 3.5 m |
| Body | 5.2 to 5.8 m long, 2.3 m wide |
| Axles | 1 at the front (9 t), 2 at the rear (2 × 16 t) |
| Tyres | 10 tyres 12.00R20, plus a spare wheel |
| Empty weight | about 12 to 13 t |
| Gross weight allowed (UEMOA) | 26 t |
These dimensions stay within the UEMOA limits for a rigid truck: 12 m long, 2.55 m wide and 4 m high at most.
Howo 10-wheel or Sinotruk 10-wheel dump truck?
It is the same truck: Howo is the range, Sinotruk the manufacturer. We explain it in our article Sinotruk Howo: what is the difference? The Sinotruk 10-wheel dump truck comes in several versions:
- The classic Howo, with a 336 hp or 371 hp engine, the most widespread on building sites;
- The Howo A7, with a higher cab, for example with a 420 hp engine;
- More recent Howo models (T7H, NX) and the premium Sitrak range.
You will find them all in our Sinotruk 6x4 dump trucks.
10-wheeler or 12-wheeler?
The 10-wheeler suits most sites, in town as well as on tracks, from Abidjan to Ouagadougou or from Lomé to Bamako. If you carry a lot of heavy materials over long distances, the 12-wheeler lets you load more while staying within the law. Compare with our article on the Howo 12-wheeler truck.
Frequently asked questions about the 10-wheel dump truck
How many m³ does a 10-wheel dump truck hold?
Usually 16 to 22 m³, depending on the body. For example, a 5.8 × 2.3 × 1.5 m body holds 20 m³.
What is the capacity in tonnes of a 10-wheel truck?
On the road, in UEMOA countries, the gross weight allowed for a 3-axle rigid truck is 26 tonnes, truck included. As the truck weighs about 12 to 13 tonnes empty, that leaves about 13 to 14 tonnes of load.
What are the dimensions of a 10-wheel dump truck?
On the Howo 6x4 trucks in our catalogue: 8.4 to 8.75 m long, 2.55 m wide and about 3.5 m high.
What is the price of a Howo 10-wheel dump truck?
It depends on the engine power, the body size, the equipment and the condition of the truck: new, used or refurbished. Write to us on WhatsApp, telling us what you carry, to find out about the versions that suit you.
Looking for a 10-wheel dump truck?
Tell us what you carry and on what terrain: we will help you choose the right body. Write to us on WhatsApp to find out more.
