Semi-trucks have been vital in shaping the cargo-transporting industry all around the world. These essential vehicles were crafted to change the way consumers and producers interact and to increase efficiency in courier systems permanently. Members of the transporting and shipping industries with experience know the importance of having quality semi-trucks in their inventory. However, it is also key to understand how the semi-truck came to be and why it is so revered today.
Our White’s International Trucks dealerships in NC are experts in all things semi-truck related and know the history behind these powerful machines. Here is some useful background we tend to share with our customers whenever they’re on the market for a new semi-truck.
What is a Semi-Truck?
The term semi-truck tends to refer to a truck or tractor that gets its power from an engine and can move from one destination to the other without the need for an additional towing vehicle. The word “semi” originally referred to the attached trailers that rely on the engines of the trucks for motion. Due to the fact that a semi-truck trailer doesn’t have front wheels, by definition, it could not have been referred to as a standard trailer. Over time the term “semi” was used to refer to the entire truck and trailer combination rather than just the towable trailer portions of the vehicle. The semi-truck is also unique in that it requires a 2-4 inch pin called a king pin to remain attached during travel rather than a traditional towing hitch.
History
The first semi-truck was produced in 1896 and followed shortly after by an additional design that was created with the intent of transporting automobiles in 1898. Notably, the original need for the trucks was to carry vehicles more efficiently from manufacturers to their respective dealers spread across the country. In time, semi-truck manufacturers and buyers began to realize the potential of using the trucks to carry varying items apart from motor vehicles. As time progressed, engineers began to build semi-trucks to accommodate various types of goods and cargo and built their trucks to be able to cover farther distances.
Types of Semi-Trucks
Today, semi-trucks come in varying styles that cater to the transporting needs of the owner and the comfort of their drivers. Day cabs are basic semi-trucks that feature a sitting area for drivers and passengers with rear windows. This class of semi-truck is designed for shorter journeys and isn’t considered suitable for driving overnight. Sleepers however are equipped with sleeping quarters and other amenities. This model type comes in different styles and can even contain small storage units to make longer trips more comfortable while on the road.
White’s International Trucks is the ideal place to start looking for a quality semi-truck! Visit any of our dealerships in NC today and we’ll find exactly what you need.
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