Front-Load Truck History
Origin of the Top-Load Truck
The concept of loading garbage to the top of a truck developed when people realized how much they hated lifting it. The load is actually hoisted to the top allowing garbage to be piled UP, instead of thrown into the side. This method allowed more garbage to be packed into the trucks. You can see the arms on the sides raise the rear bin to the top of the truck. This method is faster but makes the truck look MUCH MESSIER. Garbage is often spilled down the sides and back of the truck.
First Front-Loaders
The hoist was actually moved to the front of the truck around the late 60’s. It allowed the driver to remain in the truck while dumping the can. You can imagine how much time and mess that would save you. The only drawbacks were the arms cutting pass the drivers doors and the heavy dumpster weights landing on top of the cabs.
The Modern Front-Load
This 2004 Mack body with a Wittke packer is very popular today. It’s arms are designed to avoid doors and dump close to 5 thousand pounds! Plus it’s cab has a brim to protect the driver. The most amazing change has been the packing blade which pushes trash to the back of the truck while the driver heads to his next stop. This truck is the most efficient garbage collector because it can lift the biggest cans in the less amount of time. The next breakthrough is around the corner.