Tractor Head

Whether you're moving containers out of port, hauling bulk across a mining site, or running long-distance freight through demanding terrain, it all starts with the right tractor head. As an official Mercedes-Benz partner based near the Port of Rotterdam, Schaften Automotive supplies new and used tractor units, configured, built and shipped exactly to your operation, anywhere in the world. Browse our current stock below, or tell us what you need and we'll source, build and deliver it for you.

9 products

What is a tractor head?

A tractor head, also called a tractor unit or prime mover, is the powered vehicle that couples to a semi-trailer via a fifth wheel. It carries the engine, cab and drivetrain, while the trailer carries the load. The right unit isn't just about horsepower. Axle configuration, emission class, cab type and drivetrain all decide how productive, reliable and cost-efficient your transport will be.

That's where we come in. Instead of leaving you to match specs on your own, our export team advises you on the exact configuration your route, load and market demand, so you invest in a truck that actually fits the job.

What we supply

You get access to one of Europe's largest Mercedes-Benz export stocks, plus the flexibility to build to specification:

Axle configurations from 4x2 and 6x2 to 6x4 and 6x6, covering standard road haulage, heavy-haul and off-road duty
New and used, with 100% new, unused units direct from the factory alongside quality-checked used tractor heads
Emission classes Euro 3, Euro 5 and Euro 6, matched to your country's regulations and fuel availability
Left- and right-hand drive, configured for your market's requirements
Cab options from day cabs through to high-roof sleeper cabs for long-distance work
Custom builds including reinforced chassis, heavy-duty suspension, hydraulics and dust-proof air filtration, fitted in our own workshop before delivery

Every vehicle is carefully selected and inspected to our standards before it leaves the yard.

Why work with Schaften Automotive

We manage the entire process in-house, from vehicle selection and custom body build to documentation, customs clearance and worldwide shipping, so you deal with one partner from first enquiry to final delivery. From our base near Europe's largest port, we ship fast and fully documented to Africa, the Middle East, Asia and South America, serving mining, construction, logistics, humanitarian aid and special transport.

You get short lead times, clear communication with a reply within six working hours, competitive pricing through high-volume purchasing, and a team that has supported clients from international contractors to UN organisations. Big enough for your ambitions, small enough to tailor every deal.