What Is the Back of a Truck Called?

What is the back of a truck called? What are the different parts of a truck? What do all these terms mean? In this blog post, we will answer all of these questions and more! We will provide a comprehensive guide to understanding the different parts of a truck. So, whether you are just curious about trucks or you are looking for a glossary of trucking terms, read on!

The back of a truck is called the “bed.” The bed is where cargo is typically loaded and unloaded. There are several different types of beds, including flatbeds, dump beds, and stake beds.

Flatbeds are the most common type of truck bed. They are simply a large, flat surface on which cargo can be loaded. Dump beds are used for hauling materials that need to be dumped, such as dirt or gravel. Stake beds are used for hauling lumber or other long, narrow cargo.

The front of the truck is called the “cab.” The cab is where the driver sits. It typically has two seats, although some larger trucks have three or more seats. The cab also has the truck’s controls, including the steering wheel, gas pedal, and brake pedal.

The area between the cab and the bed is called the “chassis.” The chassis is where the engine is located. The chassis also includes the frame, axles, and wheels.

That’s all there is to it! Now you know all the different parts of a truck. So, the next time you see a truck on the road, you’ll know exactly what you’re looking at.

Contents

Why Is It Called the Bed of a Truck?

The term “bed” for the flat part of a pickup truck where the cargo is placed likely comes from the Middle English word “bedd,” which means “a ground or bottom layer.” Other than being a place to catch some Z’s, a bed can also be defined as “a supporting or underlying part” or “the part of a trailer or freight car designed to carry loads.” When looking at a pickup truck, the flatbed area where you would put your construction materials, furniture, or other large items is supported by the frame and suspension of the vehicle—making it the bed of the truck.

Before pickups were carrying around our junk, they were carrying around hay bales, lumber, and other agricultural supplies—all while using the same terminology we use today. So next time someone tells you to throw something in the back of their truck, you can tell them you’re putting it in the bed—and now you know why it’s called that.

What Is the Top of the Back of a Truck Called?

A camper shell is a small housing or rigid canopy used as a pickup truck or coupe utility accessory. It is typically placed on the top of the back of the truck and provides additional storage space or shelter from the elements. While the term camper shell is often used interchangeably with truck topper, there are slight differences between the two.

Truck toppers are typically made of lightweight materials such as fiberglass, whereas camper shells are typically made of heavier-duty materials such as aluminum or steel. Camper shells also tend to be taller and have more features than truck toppers, such as windows, doors, and ventilation systems. Whether you call it a camper shell or a truck topper, this type of accessory can be a great addition to your vehicle if you need extra storage space or protection from the elements.

What Is the Back of a Box Truck Called?

The back of a box truck is occasionally referred to as the “kick” or the “Luton,” although these terms are more often used in reference to the peak, the portion of the body that rests over the cab. The rear door of a box truck is typically hinged on one side and opens outward; some models also feature doors that open upward.

The sides of the box may be formed of aluminum or steel panels, and the floor is usually reinforced to support heavy loads. Many commercial vehicles have tilting cabs, which allow easy access to the box for loading and unloading; on some models, the entire cab can be removed.

Why Is a Trunk Called a Boot?

The term “boot” comes from a type of storage chest used on horse-drawn carriages. This chest, typically located near the coachman’s seat, was used to store various items, including the coachman’s boots. Over time, the storage chest came to be known as the “boot locker,” and eventually just the “boot.” The use of the word “boot” to refer to the trunk of a car is thought to have originated in the early 1900s when automobiles began to become more popular.

At that time, many people were familiar with horse-drawn carriages, so it made sense to use a term already well-established in English. Today, we continue to use the word “boot” to refer to the trunk of a car, even though few people are familiar with its origins.

What Is a Hatch on a Truck?

A hatch on a truck is a rear door that swings upward to provide access to a cargo area. Hatchbacks on trucks may feature fold-down second-row seating, where the interior can be reconfigured to prioritize passenger or cargo volume. In some cases, a hatch on a truck may also refer to a sliding door that gives access to the truck’s bed.

This type of hatch is often seen on pickup trucks and is especially useful for loading and unloading large items. Whatever the meaning, a hatch on a truck will make your life easier by providing quick and easy access to your cargo.

Conclusion

Truck parts have a variety of names, which can be confusing for those not familiar with the terminology. However, once you understand the meaning behind the words, it’s easy to see why they’re called what they are. By knowing about the different parts of a truck and their names, you’ll be able to communicate more effectively with mechanics and other truck enthusiasts. So the next time someone asks you about the back of a truck, you’ll know exactly what they’re talking about.

About the author, Laurence Perkins

Laurence Perkins is the passionate car enthusiast behind the blog My Auto Machine. With over a decade of experience in the automotive industry, Perkins has knowledge and experience with a wide range of car makes and models. His particular interests lie in performance and modification, and his blog covers these topics in-depth. In addition to his own blog, Perkins is a respected voice in the automotive community and writes for various automotive publications. His insights and opinions on cars are highly sought-after.