Choosing the Right End Dump: A Closer Look at Weight, Capacity & Value
When comparing end dump trailers, it's easy to get caught up in the price tag. But let’s set cost aside for a moment and really look at the numbers that impact your bottom line every single day—weight and capacity.
Here's a quick breakdown:
So Why Is the Trident So Much Lighter?
One word: design.
Trident trailers are built with 50-inch sidewalls, while Hicks, Mac, and Travis offer 60-inch sidewall options. That extra 10 inches of height over 35 feet adds up to 29 square feet of additional sidewall per side—meaning more aluminum, more weight, and more structural reinforcement required in the floor.
Those manufacturers have to design their trailers assuming every customer might choose the 60-inch sidewalls. That means heavier frames and over-engineered floors to handle the potential added stress—even if you never opt for the taller sides.
Trident? We took a different approach.
Our trailer is specifically engineered for 50-inch sidewalls, with no extra reinforcement for an option you’ll never use. This lean, focused design removes all unnecessary weight and complexity.
Can You Add 55" or 60" Sidewalls to a Trident?
Nope. And that's by design.
Our mission is simple: build the lightest 40-yard end dump on the market. That means no compromises, no "maybe someday" upgrades, and no hauling around extra aluminum you’ll never need.
Why Weight Matters (A Lot)
Weight directly affects how much you can carry and how much money you make. Every pound you save hauling your trailer is a pound you can use for payload—and payload is profit.
We estimate that every pound lighter your trailer is earns you an additional $20 per year (if you're paid by the load).
Now consider this: The Trident is 2,179 pounds lighter than the Travis. That’s potentially $43,580 more per year in your pocket.
The Bottom Line
We’re not here to knock the competition—Mac, Hicks, and Travis all make solid products. But if you're comparing specs, it's worth knowing:
- The Trident is $15,000 less than the Hicks
- It carries 8 more cubic yards
- And it weighs 1,000 lbs. less
When you're pulling an end dump, you get paid based on your capacity, which is limited by your weight.
Too many guys get into the game only to say there’s no money in it—because they start with high costs, low capacity, and heavy trailers.
Be the Operator Who Wins
Start with the lowest cost, lightest weight, and highest capacity, and you’ll be the one turning a real profit in the end dump world.
Trident Trailer 2026 - $58,520
https://www.tridenttrailer.com/ Weight 8,492 lbs. & Capacity 40 yards
Trident Trailer has the best weight by 1,000 lbs., top capacity and best price by +$15k!
Hicks All-American $75,100
https://www.hickstrailers.com/products/all-american-39-fthttps://www.truckpaper.com/listing/for-sale/240904989/2025-hicks-end-dump-end-dump-trailers-semi-trailers
Weight 9,421 lbs. & Capacity 32 yards
Hicks has a unique build, smaller box and medium weight.
Travis Aero-Lite 2025 - $77,500
This listing on Truck Paper has electric tarp and liner so subtracted $10,000 for options.
https://travistrailers.com/aero-lite-2/
https://www.truckpaper.com/listing/for-sale/236024523/2025-travis-end-dump-trailers-semi-trailers
Weight 10,550 lbs. side height 48'' Capacity 36.2
Weight 10,670 lbs. side height 54'' Capacity 40.9
Weight 10,880 lbs. side height 60'' Capacity 46.9
Travis is similar to Trident, heaviest in its class top of price point.
Mac Western Light 2025-$81,900
https://www.mactrailer.com/dump-trailers
Weight 9,780 lbs. & Capacity 41 yards
Mac has average weight, good capacity but has a price over $81,000!