Dump truck is a term broadly used to describe two different vehicles which are used on construction sites. Dumpers are small, one man vehicles used to carry loads of building supplies and waste to and from sites. Dump trucks are much larger vehicles which are used for transporting building materials to construction sites. The following is a brief overview of how dumpers can help you on site.

The original design dump trucks were different from modern designs, mainly due to the kind of work they were used to complete. These models had engines that were started by hand crank and also turned using their back wheels.

The fact that these models were started by hand crank actually served as one of its advantages. As these models had no mechanical or electrical components they were simple to fix and became extremely reliable machines on site. The dumpers skip is held in place by a simple lever positioned near the driver's foot. This simple mechanism allowed the skip to be positioned back in place manually by raising it at the front.

Modern dumper models are usually diesel powered and steer from the middle of the vehicle using an articulating chassis to "pivot" steer. Dumpers are used to haul building materials and loads of earth and other waste materials to be taken off size.

As well as being diesel driven dumpers are also fitted with electric controls to power the hydraulically powered skip. These alternative power sources offer more maneuverability but usually cost more and require more regular maintenance to keep them functioning.

Other advances in modern dumpers include roll frames designed to protect the driver if the dumper tips. As well as roll frames falling object frames are also available to protect drivers from any unexpected drops.

Other advancements mainly focus on improving the power of the dumpers skip. Models with power assisted tipping are available which lift the skip as they tip. Other popular developments include swivel skips which rotate to prevent tipping sideways. These became popular for construction sites with little space for maneuvering such as roadside sites.

A popular addition is a tow hook attached to the back of the dumper. This has proven practical for towing power sources such as air compressors and generators on and off site. Other modifications have been designed for specific jobs to complete tasks on site.