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How Using a Shunt Truck Makes Moving Trailers Safe, Easy, and Efficient

January 15, 2024

How Using a Shunt Truck Makes Moving Trailers Safe, Easy, and Efficient

Shunt trucks play an important role in numerous industries, including ports & terminals, distribution centers, and warehouses. Their primary function is to safely, easily, and efficiently transport trailers within a job site.

Shunt trucks are also called yard trucks, spotter trucks, terminal tractors, yard tractors, yard dogs, or hostlers.

Why should you use a shunt truck instead of a regular truck?

A shunt truck is useful for your operations if you:

  • Move empty trailers within a yard site
  • Frequently travel short distances
  • Require frequent stops and starts
  • Need to attach and detach trailers multiple times per day.

Shunt Trucks: Streamline Your Yard Operations

Shunting, the process of short-distance trailer movement, involves a spotter driver attaching a trailer to a yard truck and relocating it to a specified area. Once positioned, the trailer is released, allowing the truck to swiftly move on to handle other trailers.

What makes shunt trucks so useful for trailer movement?

Efficiency in Yard Operations

  • Shunt trucks, with their shorter wheelbase, offer a tighter turning radius, making them ideal for yard maneuverability.
  • Operators can connect, lift, and drive without leaving the cab, ensuring a quick and efficient process.
  • Enhanced visibility in shunt trucks means operators will be more comfortable, and more productive.

Enhanced Operator Safety

  • Shunt trucks significantly reduce the risk of injuries, as operators can perform tasks from within the cab.
  • Standard tractor operators face higher injury risks from frequent exits and entries, as well as fall risks and strain-related injuries.

Low Maintenance and Sustainable Electric Models

  • Consider electric shunt truck models from reputable brands like Terberg for reduced operational costs, sustainability, and comparable performance to diesel vehicles
  • Electric models offer additional benefits such as increased battery capacity, a wider temperature range, and improved ergonomics.

Explore Shunt Trucks with Westerra Equipment

If you're contemplating getting a shunt truck for your fleet, Westerra Equipment provides a variety of options to suit your business' needs. Book a free demo, rent a shunt truck through our sister company, WE Rent, or explore cost-effective used shunt trucks with us.

Shunt trucks offer superior performance, safety, and cost savings compared to regular trucks. Choose between diesel and electric models from leading brands. For inquiries or assistance, reach out to our equipment specialists.