HOWO vs SHACMAN: Which Chinese Dump Truck Should You Buy?

Short answer: HOWO and SHACMAN are both strong choices for export, and on paper the two dump trucks are very close. The HOWO 371 uses the 371 hp WD615 engine, a 10-speed gearbox and a lower (pulling) axle ratio. It is usually the cheaper truck, and it has the widest base of mechanics and parts. The SHACMAN F3000 uses a 380 hp Weichai WP10, a 12-speed FAST gearbox and MAN-licensed axles with a faster ratio, which suits longer, faster haul roads. The deciding factor is usually local parts and service support where you work.

Who makes HOWO and SHACMAN?

HOWO is the main heavy-truck brand of Sinotruk (China National Heavy Duty Truck Group), based in Jinan, Shandong. Sinotruk also sells Sitrak, a higher-end brand built with MAN technology. HOWO trucks are some of the most common Chinese heavy trucks in Africa, the Middle East and Central Asia.

SHACMAN trucks are made by Shaanxi Heavy Duty Automobile in Xi'an. The F3000 and H3000 ranges use MAN-licensed technology in the cab and axles, and they are usually fitted with Weichai engines and FAST gearboxes. Weichai is also SHACMAN's controlling shareholder.

HOWO 371 vs SHACMAN F3000: 6×4 dump truck specs

This table compares the two reference 6×4 dump trucks in our catalogue. Both have the same body size, so the table shows where they really differ.

Reference specifications from the Ant Trucks catalogue
Specification	HOWO 371 6×4	SHACMAN F3000 6×4
Engine	Sinotruk WD615.47	Weichai WP10
Power	371 hp	380 hp
Displacement	9.726 L	10 L class
Gearbox	HW19710, 10-speed	FAST 12JSD180, 12-speed
Front axle	HF9	MAN 9 t
Rear axles	AC16, 16 t	HANDE STR, 16 t
Final-drive ratio	5.262	4.769
Wheelbase	3,775 + 1,400 mm	3,800 + 1,350 mm
Tipper body (L × W × H)	5,600 × 2,300 × 1,600 mm	5,600 × 2,300 × 1,600 mm
Floor / side steel	8 mm / 6 mm	8 mm / 6 mm
Tipping cylinder	JIAHENG 179	JIAHENG 179
Fuel tank	300 L	300 L
Tyres	12R22.5	12R22.5
Overall size	8,650 × 2,550 × 3,300 mm	8,650 × 2,550 × 3,300 mm
Emission (reference)	Euro II	Euro II
Guide price (refurbished, EXW)	From USD 16,000	Price on request

These are reference configurations. Confirm the exact specification of the truck you are offered on its plates and in the written quotation. Full pages: HOWO 371 6×4 · SHACMAN F3000 6×4 · compare models.

Engine: WD615 vs WP10

The two engines are similar in size and power, so there is little difference in output. The real differences are support and parts.

The WD615 family has been built for decades and is very common in export markets. Many independent mechanics know it, and both genuine and aftermarket parts are easy to find.
The Weichai WP10 is also widely used, in SHACMAN trucks and in other Chinese trucks and machines. Weichai has its own service network in many countries.

To check which one is better supported where you are, ask your local parts shops which engine they keep in stock: injectors, turbochargers, gasket sets and filters.

Gearbox and axles: pulling power vs road speed

This is the biggest technical difference between the two trucks.

The HOWO reference has a 5.262 final-drive ratio. A higher number means more torque at the wheels. That helps on steep quarry ramps, soft ground and heavy, slow work, but it lowers the top speed.
The SHACMAN reference has a 4.769 ratio and a 12-speed gearbox. It runs at lower engine speed on the road, which suits longer hauls on paved roads and can save fuel at a steady speed.

Both brands offer other ratios. If you know your gradients and haul distance, tell us, and we will check which ratio the offered truck has.

Cab and driver comfort

The F3000 cab is based on MAN technology. The classic HOWO cab is simple and easy to repair, and the newer HOWO NX cab is more modern. Comfort depends a lot on the cab version, the seat and the condition of the truck, so judge the exact truck from interior photos and a video. Do not judge by the brand alone.

Price and running costs

In our catalogue, the HOWO 371 is the most competitively priced heavy truck. A standard refurbished 6×4 dump truck starts from USD 16,000 EXW (see the HOWO 371 price guide). SHACMAN trucks are quoted for each truck. Over the life of the truck, these costs matter more than a small price difference:

Parts prices and delivery time in your city
Fuel use on your typical route and load
Resale value in your local market. Ask local dealers which brand resells faster.
Downtime, which depends on how quickly a local workshop can fix the truck

Which should you choose?

Choose HOWO if…

You want the lowest purchase price
Your mechanics already know the WD615 and HW gearboxes
You work on steep, rough or soft ground where pulling power matters
You run a mixed fleet and want common parts

Choose SHACMAN if…

Weichai and FAST service is strong in your area
Your loads travel longer distances on paved roads
You prefer the F3000/H3000 cab and MAN-licensed axles
Your fleet already runs SHACMAN trucks

If you are still unsure, ask for a quote on both trucks with the same condition level and delivery basis, and compare them line by line. We also source Sitrak, FAW Jiefang, Dongfeng and Foton trucks on request.

Frequently asked questions

Is SHACMAN better than HOWO?

Neither brand is better for every job. Their 6×4 dump specifications are very similar. HOWO is usually cheaper and has the widest parts base. SHACMAN offers a 12-speed gearbox and MAN-licensed axles. Choose on local support, your routes and price.

Is SHACMAN made by MAN?

No. SHACMAN is a Chinese brand made by Shaanxi Heavy Duty Automobile. Some of its ranges, such as the F3000, use technology licensed from MAN.

Are HOWO and Sitrak the same company?

Yes. Both brands belong to Sinotruk. Sitrak is the higher-end brand, built with MAN technology.

Which brand has cheaper spare parts?

That depends on your market. In many export markets HOWO WD615 parts are very widely available. Check prices for common wear parts at two or three local suppliers before you decide.