Day Cab vs. Sleeper

Importance of the Trucking Industry 

In America’s trucking industry, trucks come in several variations. However, the goal of trucks is the transportation of goods, which is important for America’s economy.

Day Cab Truck vs Sleeper Truck 

Two of the most common variations of trucks are sleeper trucks and day cab trucks, also known as cab-overs. While at first glance it may seem obvious what the difference between these two truck variations is, there are more aspects of each truck that may fit your business’s needs better.

Sleeper Trucks 

What is a Sleeper Berth?

Sleeper trucks have one large component that a day cab truck does not; an attached compartment in the back of the driver cab, or a sleeping berth. The concept of the sleeper truck was not entirely original; in the 1950s, sleeping compartments were added to trains that were driven overnight. The U.S. Department of Transportation enforced limits on the amount of driving hours for truck drivers in 1967, inspiring manufacturers to add sleeping compartments to semi-trucks.

Advantages of Sleeper Trucks 

More Features

• The advantages to sleeper trucks are that the truck contains more than simply a sleeping area, but also cooking devices, more lighting options, a back window, along with other accessories that a day cab does not contain.

Cost Efficient 

• These trucks were designed to travel on long routes, including across state lines, making them more cost-efficient than day trucks when needing to go a far distance.

Detachable Trailer

• Another advantage is the ability to load and unload as the trailer is detachable.

Disadvantages of Sleeper Trucks 

However, the sleeper truck is less fuel-efficient and harder to navigate on smaller roads. Cab-overs do not have such issues, even though they have their own disadvantages.

Advantages of Day Cab Trucks 

Fuel Efficient

• Due to the chassis, or the vehicle frame on which the body of the truck is mounted, being lighter than a sleeper truck’s, the day cab trucks are more fuel-efficient.

Drivability & Increased Cargo Loads 

• In addition, the cab-overs are easier to maneuver on smaller roads and are also built to carry heavier loads, allowing for more cargo to be transported.

Low Maintenance Cost

• Because of the lighter chassis, these trucks are designed to travel in inner cities and have lower maintenance costs.

Disadvantages of Day Cabs 

While truck drivers are able to sleep in a day cab, it is uncomfortable and truckers have coined them the “dog house.”

Summary of Sleeper Cab Truck vs Day Cab Truck 

If you are needing a truck that travels long distances and will be used overnight often, your best choice is the sleeper truck. They will provide more comfort for your drivers and give them a place to rest on their trips. However, if you need a more fuel-efficient truck that is better to drive on smaller roads, the day cab truck is the best choice. With them, you can carry more cargo and deliver within cities easier. Both truck types come with their own advantages and disadvantages. Which type fits the needs of your business?

Day cab truck vs sleeper truck – What’s the difference? (October 25, 2020). Used Vending. https://smartsleepingtips.com/day-cab-truck-vs-sleeper-cab-truck-whats-the-difference/

Peter, K. (n.d.) Day cab truck vs. sleeper cab truck: What’s the difference? Smart Sleeping Tips. https://www.usedvending.com/blog/day-cab-truck-vs-sleeper-truck/