How to Effectively Load Dump Trucks with Wheel Loaders

How efficiently you load your dump trucks is dependent on the competence of your wheel loader operator and the specifications of your machines. As your wheel loaders traverse the construction site, shuttling materials from point A to point B, minimizing their movement is crucial. To enhance your productivity, we've assembled a set of crucial recommendations for your wheel loader operator to follow.

Choose the best loading pattern

The most effective method for loading dump trucks is employing the Y or V pattern. This technique aligns the dump trucks with the rear of the vehicle just off the edge of the pile. The wheel loader operator initiates the cycle at a 45 degree angle to the dirt pile and the truck, moving forward in a curve to the right to fill the bucket. After reversing to the starting position, the operator then moves forward, curving to the left to unload into the truck before reversing back to the 45 degree angle for the next cycle. The resulting path resembles a Y or V, which is what gives the pattern its name.

A key piece of efficiently loading dump trucks is keeping the truck in a consistent position. You need enough space to maneuver your wheel loaders, but not so much space that the machine is moving more than necessary.

Use wheel loaders with advanced features

In addition to loading patterns, how well your wheel loader operator can fill your trucks also comes down to your machine’s capabilities. Features such as boom kickout, return to dig, and auto leveling capabilities play a pivotal role.

• Boom kickout stops the wheel loader boom at a predetermined height during lifting, helpful when consistently loading at the same height.
• Return to dig stops the boom at a predetermined point during lowering, allowing you to easily start each cycle in the same position.
• Auto leveling automatically returns the bucket from a dump or dig to a carrying position.

These features minimize guesswork for the wheel loader operator, and help minimize time consuming mistakes.

Make sure your bucket is compatible with your loaders and trucks

Before starting a loading job, it’s important to determine the appropriate bucket size for your wheel loader. Consider the capacity of the dump trucks, the number of loads to move daily, and check your wheel loader operator manual for maximum capacities and tipping loads. Use a bucket that allows you to fill the trucks in as few cycles as possible without exceeding the limits of your equipment.

If you have any questions about wheel loader operator tips, filling dump trucks, or wheel loaders in general, contact our team today.