Brawny, but not too big

Mid-sized trucks have a lot to offer shippers that need heavy-duty capacity for shorter hauls.

By Staff -- Logistics Management, 4/1/1998

Freightliner Corp. created the term "Business Class" to describe its innovative slope-nosed class 5 through 7 vehicles. The low-profile hood offers the best visibility in the industry for conventional mid-sized trucks, according to the manufacturer. The FL Series 50 (Class 5) is designed for lighter-weight applications, such as retail and local refrigerated-products delivery. It offers a weight rating of up to 20,000 pounds and comes with hydraulic disc brakes only.

The FL60 (Class 6) is designed for both stop-and-go and typical pickup-and-delivery applications. It is available with a GVWR of up to 26,000 pounds and either standard hydraulic disc brakes or optional air brakes. The FL70 (Class 7) boasts a weight rating of up to 35,000 pounds, making it ideal for heavy hauling of products like frozen foods and beverages. Buyers may choose standard hydraulic disc brakes or optional air brakes. All three trucks are available with Dodge Magnum gasoline engines or diesel engines from Caterpillar or Cummins.