HOWO 8×4 Dump Truck Specs, Price & Guide for African Mining

If you’re looking for a HOWO 8×4 dump truck for African mining or construction, you’ve come to the right place. The 8×4 configuration means four axles — two steering at the front, two driving at the back. There’s a reason these things are everywhere, from the copper mines of Zambia to the construction sites of Lagos and the gold pits of Ghana.

Specifically, the 8×4 configuration means four axles — two steering at the front, two driving at the back. That’s eight wheels in total, all pulling their weight. It gives you way more payload than a 6×4 setup (think 40–55 tons vs 25–35 tons), better stability on rough terrain, and longer tire life because the load spreads across more wheels.

I’ve personally handled dozens of HOWO 8×4 dump truck exports over the last six years — to Nigeria, Ghana, Zambia, DRC, Tanzania, and beyond. So this guide is based on what I’ve actually seen working in the field, not just spec sheets copy-pasted from a factory brochure.

HOWO 8×4 Dump Truck — Key Specs and Configurations

For starters, let’s look at the numbers that matter. Specifically, Sinotruk (the company that builds HOWO trucks) makes two main 8×4 dump variants — the HOWO 371 (the workhorse) and the HOWO 400 (higher power, newer cab).

HOWO 371 8×4 Dump Truck Specs

HOWO 400HP 8×4 Dump Truck Specs

Meanwhile, the 400HP version is the newer option. It uses Sinotruk’s own MC11 engine (a MAN-derived design), which is lighter, more fuel-efficient, and meets tighter emission standards. You’ll find more of these in 2021+ model years.

For official specifications straight from the manufacturer, Sinotruk publishes HOWO model details on its global website. It is worth cross-referencing what your exporter tells you against those factory specs.

HOWO 8×4 Dump Truck Price Guide — Used (2026)

Prices vary depending on year, mileage, engine choice, and dump body condition. Here are realistic CIF price ranges for major African ports based on what I’ve actually sold and seen in the market.

For context, a few notes on these prices: First, they’re for trucks in good mechanical condition (grade A/B), not beat-up units. Second, shipping costs have been volatile in 2026 in 2026 — container shipping from China to West Africa has hovered around $3,000–$4,500 per unit, and RORO is roughly $2,500–$4,000 depending on port. For a full cost breakdown, read our used truck shipping costs guide.

6×4 vs 8×4 — Which HOWO Dump Truck Should You Buy?

This is the question I get most often from buyers. Should you spend more on an 8×4 or save money with a 6×4?

Choose the 6×4 HOWO 371 if:

• First, your loads are consistently under 30 tons
• Second, you work mainly on paved roads or well-maintained gravel roads
• Third, you’re on a tighter budget (6×4 saves about $3,000–$5,000 upfront)
• Fuel economy matters more than payload capacity
• You need a versatile truck that can do dump and tractor duties

Choose the 8×4 if:

• First, you’re hauling heavy loads (35–50 tons) every day
• Second, your worksite has rough roads or no roads at all
• Third, you’re in mining — overburden removal or ore hauling
• You want lower tire wear and better stability on slopes
• Payload per trip matters more than fuel cost (higher revenue per load)

Bottom line from my experience: If you’re buying for mining operations in DRC, Zambia, Ghana, or Tanzania — go with the 8×4 every time. The extra axle pays for itself in reduced downtime and higher daily tonnage. If you’re doing construction haulage in cities or short-haul on maintained roads, a 6×4 will serve you fine and save you money.

For a detailed comparison of HOWO vs Shacman dump trucks, see our HOWO vs Shacman guide. For more on the 6×4 variant, check the HOWO 371 dump truck specs.

Where the HOWO 8×4 Excels in Africa — Real Applications

I’ve seen these trucks working in some of the toughest conditions on the continent. Here’s where they shine.

Gold mining — Ghana & Tanzania. Similarly, the story repeats here. Overburden removal needs capacity and durability. I’ve sold HOWO 8×4 dumps to mines in Obuasi (Ghana) and Geita (Tanzania). Fleet operators there consistently report 2–3 years of solid service before major repairs.

Large construction projects — Nigeria & Kenya. Meanwhile, for dam construction, highway projects, and building foundations, When you’re moving thousands of tons of earth and gravel per day, the 8×4’s higher payload per trip makes a real dent in project timelines.

Coal haulage — South Africa & Mozambique. Moreover, South Africa’s coal mines have been using HOWO 8×4s for years. The trucks handle the loads well and the parts supply chain through Johannesburg is solid. Mozambique is a growing market too — Maputo port sees regular HOWO 8×4 shipments.

Engine and Maintenance — What to Expect

The HOWO 8×4 uses two main engine families. Which one you get matters for maintenance and parts in Africa.

MC11 engine (400 hp). Using MAN-derived technology, The MC11 is lighter (alloy construction), more powerful, and roughly 10–15% more fuel-efficient. It also meets China 5 / Euro 5 emissions, which matters if your country restricts older standard vehicles. However, parts availability is more limited, especially outside major cities. In Nigeria, you can find MC11 parts in Lagos and Onitsha, but not in smaller towns. Weigh this against the fuel savings before deciding.

For more on Chinese truck engine options, read our engine comparison guide.

Common Problems with HOWO 8×4 Dump Trucks

Let me be straight with you — no truck is perfect. Here are the issues I’ve seen come up with these trucks in Africa, and what to watch for.

• Rear suspension bushes. The balance beam suspension on the rear bogie wears out faster than expected — especially if the truck is run overloaded. Check for clunking noises over bumps. Budget for replacement every 12–18 months in heavy use. Bush kits cost about $150–$300.
• Dump body hinge pins. The pivot pins where the dump body attaches to the chassis wear and elongate over time. You’ll notice the body starting to sit crooked. Replacements are cheap ($80–$150) but labor-intensive. Inspect before buying.
• Clutch wear. For example, heavy loads and stop-start mining work destroy clutches. A HOWO 8×4 dump truck running max payload every day on rough terrain might need a new clutch every 8–12 months. Budget $400–$700 for the clutch kit plus labor.
• Hydraulic system leaks. The dump hoist hydraulics can develop leaks at hose connections, especially on older trucks (pre-2018). If the dump body creeps down slowly when raised, the control valve seal is worn. Simple fix.
• Electrical gremlins. This is a HOWO-wide issue, not just the 8×4. Lights, gauges, and sensors can be intermittent. It’s rarely a serious problem but it’s annoying. A good auto electrician can sort most issues quickly.

Spare Parts for HOWO 8×4 in Africa

• Nigeria: Lagos (Trade Fair Complex, Ladipo Market), Onitsha. Everything from engine blocks to cabin panels.
• Ghana: Accra (Kwame Nkrumah Circle area). Good availability for running gear and engine parts.
• Kenya: Nairobi (Industrial Area). Growing HOWO parts network.
• Tanzania: Dar es Salaam. Smaller but adequate for consumables.
• Zambia/DRC: Lusaka, Lubumbashi. HOWO parts are standard in mining towns.
• South Africa: Johannesburg, Durban. As the most comprehensive supply chain in Africa — parts ship to neighboring countries from here.

Is the HOWO 8×4 Dump Truck Right for You? Decision Guide

• You need to move 35–50 tons per load regularly
• Your site conditions are rough (mud, rocks, steep grades)
• You’re in mining, quarrying, or heavy construction
• You want the industry standard for Chinese heavy dump trucks in Africa
• Parts availability matters more than fuel economy

• Your loads are under 30 tons — a 6×4 is cheaper to buy and run
• Fuel costs dominate your operating expenses — the MC11 engine helps but still isn’t as efficient as a tractor-trailer combo
• You need highway speed — 8×4 dumps are geared for torque not speed (max around 75–85 km/h loaded)
• Your roads have weight restrictions — some countries limit 8×4 axle loads on certain routes

How to Buy a HOWO 8×4 Dump Truck from China

1. First, tell us your requirements. Model year range (older 371 or newer 400?), budget, destination port, and what you’ll haul. Different dump body sizes make a real difference — a 20 m³ body for coal works differently than a 28 m³ body for gravel.
2. Next, we source and inspect. We check the engine compression, transmission condition, frame integrity, dump hoist operation, tire condition, and overall body wear. Every 8×4 we sell comes with a detailed inspection report.
3. After inspection, you get a live video walkaround. You see the exact truck running before you commit. Dump body up and down. Engine cold start. Test drive if needed.
4. Then payment and booking. We handle the paperwork, customs clearance for export, container loading or RORO booking. You just approve and track.
5. Finally, shipping. 20–30 days to most African ports. For a HOWO 8×4 dump truck, RORO is usually the most cost-effective — the truck drives on and off. However, some ports only accept containerized cargo — check our shipping guide for details.

FAQs About the HOWO 8×4 Dump Truck

Ready to Find Your HOWO 8×4?