Many truck drivers and trucking enthusiasts are drawn to the unmistakable look of classic American semis. Trucking Companies With Long Nose Trucks continue to stand out on US highways, not just for style, but also for comfort, performance, and tradition. If you’re searching for companies that still run long-hood trucks—or wondering why they do—this guide gives you clear, practical answers.
What Are Long Nose (Long Hood) Trucks?
Long nose trucks—also called long hood trucks—are conventional semi-trucks with extended hoods in front of the cab. Unlike cab-over-engine (COE) or short-nose designs, the engine sits far forward, creating the iconic stretched profile many drivers love.
Read too: Franklin Truck Parts Near Me: Your Complete Guide to Local Truck Parts & Repair Solutions
Key Characteristics
- Long wheelbase
- Extended hood with large engine bay
- Traditional sleeper cab layout
- Typically paired with large diesel engines
Historically, long nose trucks dominated the US market before federal length regulations shaped modern designs (background on truck configurations can be found on Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Semi-trailer_truck).
Why Do Some Trucking Companies Still Use Long Nose Trucks?
Despite newer aerodynamic models, many Trucking Companies With Long Nose Trucks stick with them for several practical reasons.
Driver Comfort
- More legroom and sleeper space
- Reduced engine heat and noise inside the cab
Maintenance Access
- Large hood allows easier engine access
- Faster repairs and lower labor time
Durability & Longevity
- Often built for 1 million+ miles
- Favored by owner-operators and legacy fleets
Brand Identity
- Long hoods project a classic, professional image
- Strong presence at truck shows and on highways
Are Long Nose Trucks Still Legal in the US?
Yes. Long nose trucks are legal in all US states as long as they comply with overall length and axle regulations. Most fleets manage compliance by adjusting trailer length rather than eliminating long hoods.
Trucking Companies With Long Nose Trucks (Well-Known Examples)
Below are notable Trucking Companies With Long Nose Trucks that either operate or are well known for using long-hood semis.
1. Oakley Transport
- Known for polished, show-quality long hood trucks
- Strong presence of classic Peterbilt and Kenworth models
- Popular among experienced drivers
2. Averitt Express
- Regional and long-haul operations
- Mix of modern and classic-style trucks
- Emphasis on driver comfort
3. Wilson Logistics
- Family-owned fleet
- Often features long hood trucks for OTR drivers
- Strong driver retention culture
4. Holland Enterprises
- Smaller, driver-focused company
- Long nose trucks common among senior drivers
- Reputation for well-maintained equipment
5. Owner-Operator Fleets
- Not a single company, but many fleets rely on owner-operators
- Long nose trucks extremely popular
- High customization and pride of ownership
Popular Long Nose Truck Models Used by These Companies
| Model | Manufacturer | Why It’s Popular |
|---|---|---|
| Peterbilt 379 | Peterbilt | Classic design, resale value |
| Peterbilt 389 | Peterbilt | Modern tech with classic hood |
| Kenworth W900 | Kenworth | Comfort and reliability |
| Kenworth W990 | Kenworth | Updated long hood aerodynamics |
Advantages vs. Disadvantages of Long Nose Trucks
Advantages
- ✔ Superior ride comfort
- ✔ Easier engine maintenance
- ✔ Strong resale value
- ✔ Iconic American styling
Disadvantages
- ✘ Slightly lower fuel efficiency
- ✘ Larger turning radius
- ✘ Higher upfront cost
👉 Many companies accept these trade-offs because driver satisfaction often improves retention, a major cost factor in trucking.
Fuel Efficiency: Are Long Nose Trucks Less Efficient?
On average, long nose trucks consume 5–10% more fuel than modern aerodynamic short-hood models. However, companies offset this by:
- Driver-controlled speeds
- Advanced engine tuning
- High-efficiency trailers
For long-haul routes with steady highway speeds, the difference is often smaller than expected.
Why Drivers Prefer Trucking Companies With Long Nose Trucks
From a driver’s perspective, these trucks offer:
- A smoother ride on long trips
- Less vibration and cab noise
- Pride in driving a classic rig
- More space for sleeping and storage
Many experienced drivers actively seek out Trucking Companies With Long Nose Trucks when changing jobs.
How to Find Jobs With Companies That Run Long Nose Trucks
Step-by-Step Strategy
- Search company fleets online
Look for fleet photos on company websites or social media. - Ask recruiters directly
Ask what truck models are assigned to OTR drivers. - Check driver forums
Drivers often share real fleet details. - Attend truck shows
Many companies showcase long hood trucks at events.
Are Long Nose Trucks Better for Owner-Operators?
In many cases, yes.
Reasons Owner-Operators Choose Long Hoods
- Long service life
- Easier DIY maintenance
- Higher resale value
- Strong personal branding
This explains why owner-operator-heavy fleets dominate the long hood segment.
Industry Insight: Retention and Equipment Choice
Industry surveys show that equipment quality ranks among the top 3 reasons drivers stay with a company. Fleets that offer long nose trucks often attract veteran drivers who value comfort over short-term fuel savings.
FAQ – Trucking Companies With Long Nose Trucks
What are long nose trucks?
They are conventional semi-trucks with extended hoods placing the engine far in front of the cab.
Are trucking companies still using long nose trucks?
Yes, especially driver-focused and owner-operator fleets.
Do long nose trucks cost more?
Yes, upfront costs are higher, but longevity and resale value offset this.
Are they harder to drive?
They require more space to turn, but most drivers adapt quickly.
Can new drivers get assigned long nose trucks?
Usually after gaining experience, though some fleets allow it sooner.
Are long nose trucks good for long haul?
Yes, they’re often preferred for long-haul comfort and stability.
Conclusion
Trucking Companies With Long Nose Trucks continue to thrive because they prioritize driver comfort, durability, and tradition. While modern designs focus on efficiency, long-hood trucks remain a symbol of American trucking—and a practical choice for many fleets and drivers.
If this guide helped you understand which companies still run long nose trucks, share it on social media so other drivers can benefit from the insight.
Leave a Reply