Used Rolloff Trucks For Sale
Compare used roll-off trucks with cable hoists or hooklifts. Evaluate capacity, axle configs, container length, tarps, and specs for your routes.
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About Used Rolloff Trucks
Chassis and axle layout drive legal payload and maneuverability. Most buyers target Class 8 tandems with 40k to 46k rears and a 12k to 20k steer axle; tri-axles or lift axles help scale heavier boxes under state bridge rules. A longer wheelbase is needed for 22 to 24 foot boxes, while tight urban routes benefit from a shorter wheelbase and automatic transmission for frequent backing and spotting. PTO-driven hydraulic systems off the transmission or a clutch pump power the hoist; higher-flow pumps, large-bore hoses, and properly sized valves reduce cycle times and heat. Look for frame reinforcements, rear apron design, roller condition, and approach angle that fit your yards and ramps. Locking diffs, aggressive suspensions like Hendrickson HN or Chalmers, and deep-tread tires are valuable for landfill or off-road work.
Productivity and safety options matter in daily use. Automatic tarping systems are critical for compliance on refuse and C&D routes; side-arm, flip, and cable tarps each have different durability and clearance profiles. In-cab hoist controls, hoist-up alarms, rear stabilizers, container locks, poly fenders, and backup cameras reduce incident risk and speed turnarounds. Hooklift platforms can run multiple bodies beyond dumpsters, including flatbeds, water tanks, and dump bodies, which can minimize idle time between jobs. Consider tare weight trade-offs: heavier hoists and reinforcements eat into payload, but often pay back in durability and uptime.
When evaluating a used rolloff, inspect the subframe, hoist pivots, and welds for cracks, elongation, or repairs. Check cable condition for broken strands and birdcaging, sheaves and rollers for groove wear, and cylinder rods for pitting. Verify PTO engagement, hydraulic pressures, and cycle speed at operating temperature to uncover weak pumps or relief settings. Corrosion at the rear tail, crossmembers, and under-tarp structure is common in northern fleets. Confirm container compatibility by measuring rail width and stop height for cable hoists or hook height and lock spacing on hooklifts. Recognizable hoist brands like Galbreath, Stellar, SwapLoader, Ampliroll, and Palfinger have broad parts support, which simplifies upkeep over the long haul.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a cable-hoist rolloff and a hooklift truck?
Cable-hoist rolloffs use a winch and cable to pull outside-rail containers up the rails and are very forgiving with older or twisted boxes and uneven ground. Hooklifts use a hydraulic jib and locks to engage a standardized hook point, usually at 54 or 62 inches, for precise, fast loading and the ability to run multiple body types. Cable systems offer broad container compatibility and rugged off-road tolerance, while hooklifts offer safer in-cab operation, better placement control, and quicker cycle times but require hook-compatible bodies.
What hoist capacity and chassis rating should I target?
Match hoist rating to your heaviest box and material density. Common municipal and C&D work runs well with 60,000 to 65,000 pound hoists on tandem or tri-axle chassis. Verify that axle ratings, suspension, and wheelbase can legally support your target payload under your state’s bridge formula. A tri-axle or lift axle helps scale at or near 80,000 pounds gross with dense loads, while a lighter tandem spec maximizes maneuverability and reduces tare for lower-density routes.
What container sizes are compatible with used rolloff trucks?
Most North American cable-hoist rolloffs are built around common outside-rail containers in the 18 to 24 foot length range and 10 to 40 yard capacities. Compatibility comes down to rail width, front stop style and height, rear roller height, and winch position. Hooklifts must match hook height, lock spacing, and body length to the hoist, with 54 and 62 inch hook heights being most common. Always measure your existing boxes before committing to a chassis and hoist combination.
What should I inspect on a used rolloff before purchase?
Look closely at the hoist subframe, pivot pins, bushings, and welds for cracks or elongation. Inspect cables, sheaves, rollers, and rear apron for wear. Cycle the hoist hot to check pump performance, valve response, and any hydraulic leaks. Verify PTO engagement, listen for driveline vibration, and confirm differential locks. Check for corrosion on frame rails and crossmembers, test tarp system operation, and ensure lights, air lines, and container locks function as designed.
Can I add a tarp system or switch between cable-hoist and hooklift later?
Adding or upgrading a tarping system is common and usually straightforward if the hoist and cab-guard have mounting points. Converting from cable hoist to hooklift, or vice versa, is a major modification that involves new subframe mounting, hydraulics, controls, and often wheelbase and frame reinforcement changes. It is generally more cost effective to buy a truck already configured for the bodies you plan to run.