Semi-trucks come in various sizes and dimensions depending on the model and brand. On average, semi-trucks in the United States measure around 72 feet long, 13.5 feet tall, and 8.5 feet wide. They can grossly weigh about 80,000 pounds. If you opt for a used semi-truck, you have more options in length, height, and width, as well as sleeper cab or day cab sizes. Here is a brief overview of semi-truck dimensions for the industry’s most popular brands, including International, Volvo, and Mack.
International Semi-truck Dimensions
International trucks offer a broad range of dimensions to suit various applications. Here’s a quick look at the dimensions of some of the popular International models available on the market:
International LT Dimensions:
- Cab interior trim levels: Diamond trim & Classic trim
- Day Cab Configuration
- 56″ Hi-Rise Sleepers
- 56″ Low Roof Sleepers
- 73″ Sky-Rise Sleepers, and
- 73″ Hi-Rise Sleepers
LoneStar® Dimensions:
- Day Cab Configuration
- 56-inch Hi-Rise Sleeper
- 56-inch Low Roof Sleeper
- 73-inch Sky-Rise Sleeper, and
- 73-inch Hi-Rise Sleeper
With LoneStar®, drivers have four sleeper configurations to choose from, with a wheelbase range of between 167 and 280 inches.
RH® Series Dimensions:
- Day Cab
- Day Cab plus Roof Fairing
- 56-inch Hi-Rise Sleeper plus Roof Fairing
- 56-inch Hi-Rise Sleeper, and
- 56-inch Low-Rise Sleeper
The popular Regional Haul model is availed in two-day cab options, including one with three sleeper configurations and plenty of room for the essentials and others with a roof fairing for better aerodynamics.
How Much Weight Semi-trucks Can Pull
Regarding semi-truck horsepower, figures vary widely depending on the engine, brand, and ruck size. However, semi-trucks typically have horsepower ratings ranging between 400 and 600 hp, making them extremely powerful machines. The higher the horsepower and torque, the heavier the load these machines can pull and the better the efficiency and aerodynamics. Torque measures an engine’s twisting force, usually measured in pound-feet (lb-ft) or Newton-meters (N-m). It is a key factor in the performance of an engine because it is directly related to an engine’s ability to accelerate and to do work. Torque plays a significant role in determining an engine’s power output. Horsepower is a measure of the rate at which work is done, and it is directly proportional to torque at a given engine speed. In other words, an engine that produces a lot of torque at a given speed will also produce a lot of horsepower at that speed. In general, engines that produce high torque levels are well-suited to applications that require a lot of low-speed pulling power, such as towing or hauling heavy loads. On the other hand, engines that produce high levels of horsepower are better suited to high-speed applications, such as racing or high-performance driving. The International LT A26’s torque range is 1,350 – 1,750, and the Cummins X15 has 1,450 – 2,050. International’s all-new S13 engine provides 1,850 lb-ft of torque.
The maximum allowable weight on the Interstate highway system in the US without a special permit is 80,000 pounds. So, if you drive a semi-truck that weighs about 36,000 pounds without cargo, you can pull a maximum of 44,000 pounds without going overweight and getting fined or having to purchase a special overweight permit. Different US states have different weight allowances for various state-regulated highways and allowable axle configurations.
Parting Shot!
Whether your business requires a day cab or a sleeper, you should speak with an experienced dealer in new and used semi-trucks to help you find what you need. You can also learn about semi-truck maintenance tips, such as choosing the right tires or how to customize your sleeper. If you have questions about semi-truck dimensions, horsepower, or how much weight is permissible in your state, please get in touch with us today!
