If you're new to the aggregate hauling world, you might think all loads are the same — but what you're hauling matters. Different materials behave differently in a trailer, require different loading techniques, and can even impact your truck's maintenance and fuel costs.
At 326 Trucking, we want every owner-operator to feel confident pulling up to the plant. So here’s a beginner-friendly breakdown of the most common materials you’ll haul — and what to expect with each one.
What it is:
A dense rock used in road base, concrete mixes, and drainage projects.
What to expect:
Heavier than sand
Can be dusty — especially in dry conditions
May require extra cleaning if left sitting in your bed too long
Tends to settle tightly, so loads ride smoothly
Pro tip:
Keep an eye on your axle weights — limestone can get you overloaded fast if you’re not careful.
What it is:
Fine-grained material used in concrete, asphalt, and site leveling and golf courses.
What to expect:
Flows easily during dumping
Can be sticky when wet — may require extra time to unload
Lightweight compared to limestone
Can blow off the trailer, so a solid tarp system is a must
Pro tip:
Always clean your bed when switching between materials. Clients do not like limestone or gravel in their sand and vice versa
What it is:
Loose rock material — usually ⅜" to 1½" in diameter — used for driveways, roads, and drainage and concrete mixes.
What to expect:
Can roll under your tailgate if not sealed properly
May get caught in tailgates or corners of the trailer
Pro tip:
Ask the loader for an even distribution to avoid uneven dumping or off-center loads.
What it is:
Demolition material from old concrete, crushed and reused in new projects.
What to expect:
Can contain sharp edges — avoid letting it sit in your trailer too long
Can be a bit dusty
Great for base layers in road construction
Pro tip:
Inspect your trailer floor and liner after hauling this material — it’s known to cause wear and tear.
What it is:
Soil used for landscaping, leveling, and erosion control.
What to expect:
Can be very heavy when wet
May stick to your trailer bed
May require slow, controlled dumping to avoid build-up
Not always a consistent material — it can vary by supplier
Pro tip:
Use a liner or floor treatment if you’re regularly hauling sticky materials like wet fill.
Different materials impact your:
Time at the plant and on-site
Fuel usage due to weight
Wear and tear on your equipment
Understanding the difference allows you to load smarter, drive safer, and earn more.
We provide route details and material types for every job — so you’re never guessing what you're getting into.
When you work with 326 Trucking, you get:
Reliable info on plant requirements
Help matching you with jobs that suit your setup
Support and feedback from experienced dispatchers
Have questions about hauling different materials? Email us at trucks@326trucking.com — we’re always happy to help.