A terminal tractor, also known as a yard truck, shunt truck, or spotter truck, serves the purpose of efficiently moving cargo containers and semi-trailers across short distances within various settings. These settings include cargo yards, intermodal transportation hubs, ports, truck terminals, and warehouse facilities.
Here are some key characteristics that distinguish a terminal tractor from a regular tractor unit:
- Cab Design:
- The terminal tractor typically features a single-person cab that is offset to the side of the engine.
- It provides a 360-degree view for the operator.
- Rear Door:
- A full-height, sliding rear door allows easy access to trailer connections.
- Wheelbase:
- Terminal tractors have a very short wheelbase, often with a solidly mounted rear axle.
- Powertrain:
- They are equipped with a low-power diesel, an alternative fuel engine, or an electric motor (especially in the case of electric terminal trucks).
- Automatic transmissions are commonly used.
- Fifth-Wheel Coupling:
- A fifth-wheel coupling with an integrated lifting mechanism allows the semi-trailer’s legs to remain in the lowered position during movement.
- Typical lifting capacity is around 70,000 lbs (32,000 kg) with a hydraulic lift of approximately 15 inches (380 mm).
- Speed:
- Terminal tractors operate at lower speeds, usually around 25 miles per hour (40 km/h), especially in off-road environments.🚚🌟