What Are the Different Categories of Trucks in Kenya? 

Introduction

In Kenya, the demand for commercial trucks has seen a significant rise. Truck unit sales are projected to reach 1.46k vehicles by 2025. Furthermore, the market is expected to continue growing at a compound annual rate of 1.83% from 2025 to 2029, resulting in a projected market volume of 1.57k vehicles by the end of that period.

This upward trend highlights the increasing demand for commercial transport solutions, making it a promising sector for businesses and investors. This blog will discuss the different categories of trucks available in the commercial space.  

What Are the Different Categories Of Trucks In Kenya?  

Below are the three most common categories of commercial trucks in Kenya:  

1. Small Commercial Vehicles  

   These small trucks are typically used by businesses of all sizes to make last-mile deliveries. These categories of trucks are well-suited for last-mile deliveries for the following reasons:

   • Despite its compact size, the truck offers impressive cargo space and payload capacity, enabling businesses to complete multiple deliveries in a single trip. This enhances operational efficiency and reduces costs.
   • Equipped with a highly efficient engine and a responsive braking system, the truck allows for quick acceleration and safe stopping. This ensures swift and seamless deliveries.
   • Its compact design provides excellent manoeuvrability, making it ideal for navigating narrow streets and tight urban spaces. This improves the driving experience, enhancing both driver comfort and productivity. 

2. Intermediate and Light Commercial Vehicles  

   Intermediate and light commercial vehicles offer a step up from small commercial vehicles, making them ideal for transporting mid-sized loads over moderate distances. Here’s why they are well-suited for such operations:

   • The truck offers greater cargo space and payload capacity than small trucks, enabling businesses to transport their mid-sized goods efficiently.  
   • The truck features a powerful engine with impressive capacity, torque, and speed. This enables efficient long-distance travel, such as inter-city transit. It also ensures timely deliveries, keeping the operational schedule on track. 
   • Trucks in these categories also promise easier manoeuvrability. This helps businesses navigate various spaces and terrains with ease. Undoubtedly, this reduces driver fatigue, maintaining their well-being and optimal performance.  

3. Medium and Heavy Commercial Vehicles  

   Medium and heavy commercial vehicles dominate the commercial truck categories. They are large and strong, facilitating the support of heavy cargo over long distances. They are indispensable for heavy industries such as construction for the following reasons:

   • These commercial vehicles come in various types, including cargo trucks, tippers, and tractors. Each is designed for a specific function, making it suitable for particular tasks. For example, tractors ensure secure and systematic cargo transportation from one place to another. 
   • They offer significant cargo space and, more importantly, high payload capacity, allowing them to haul and transport heavy loads. The payload capacity is supported by robust suspensions and shock absorbers, ensuring the safety of the cargo. 
   • The trucks feature impressive manoeuvrability and gradeability, allowing them to conquer the toughest terrains without compromising the safety of the driver or the cargo. 

Tata Motors Kenya: Commercial Vehicles for Every Business Need

Tata Motors Kenya offers a diverse range of commercial vehicles, from small and light trucks to medium and heavy-duty options. Each truck is designed for specific applications, ensuring efficiency, reliability, and value for money. Whether you need a compact truck for urban deliveries or a powerful heavy-duty vehicle for long hauls, our range at Tata Motors has a solution to support your business growth.

Summing It Up  

The commercial truck category is vast. There are three main categories of trucks: small, intermediate, and light commercial vehicles, as well as medium and heavy commercial vehicles. Each truck category has practical features and specifications that make it stand out in its class. Use them for the right applications to maximise their potential. 

FAQs  

• What are the categories of commercial trucks? 

  The three main categories of trucks – small, intermediate & light, and medium & heavy commercial vehicles.

• How are trucks classified based on their size? 

  Trucks can be classified into three categories based on their size: small, intermediate & light, and medium & heavy commercial vehicles. These vehicles also differ in terms of cargo space, payload capacity, and other factors.  

• How do I choose the right truck category for my business? 

  Assess your business requirements, including cargo type, load capacity, and travel distance, to choose a truck that best meets your operational needs.