Your semi truck bumper adds an enormous amount of style to your rig. From rugged Texas square designs to sleek blind mounts, this guide breaks down the best bumper styles for owner-operators looking for durability, function, and style.

The style of the bumper determines how aerodynamic your rig can be, even how much weight is on your rig. 

Certain bumpers offer greater durability and customization.

Understanding Semi Truck Bumper Styles

Top factors to consider:

Material choices: steel vs. chrome vs. semi aluminum materials.

Functionality: open hood access, ease of installation, and bumper guards.

Basic Bumper Mounts 

Standard Mounts: visible bolts attached directly to the frame that are easy to install.

Blind Mounts: internal mounting brackets that hide the bolts, offering a sleek appearance.

Universal Mounts: designed as blank undrilled bumpers that can be customized to be model specific.

The Most Popular Bumper Styles

Tapered Rolled End Bumper

• Sleek, formed shape for better aerodynamic efficiency.
• Lighter models work well for fuel-conscious owner-operators.
• Often used for basic driving functions.

Square Rolled End Bumper (Texas Square Bumper)

• Known for strength and durability.
• Great for providing protection against costly damage from road debris.
• Popular choice for big rig trucks.

Square Boxed End Bumper

• Extra reinforcement to minimize costly damage.
• Heavy-duty for long-haul trucking and rough terrains.
• Works well with OEM tow hooks for hauling time efficiency.

Roadrunner Bumper

• A balance between aesthetic appeal and strength.
• Ideal for truckers changing directions frequently in urban areas.
• Lower repair bill due to its durability.

American Eagle Rolled End Bumper

• A premium chrome bumper with a polished finish.
• Reduces overall maintenance costs due to corrosion resistance.
• Works well with bumper guards.

American Eagle Boxed End Bumper

• Provides the strongest mount among bumpers.
• Ideal for truckers encountering moose or bigger herd animals.
• Heavy-duty steel construction makes it a financial disaster preventer.

Blind Mount Bumper

• A modern, clean look with no visible bolts.
• Ideal for hauling time efficiency.
• Reduces repair bill costs with easy installation.

Standard Bumper

• A factory bumper replacement with easy installation.
• Comes in various chrome and steel finishes.
• Lighter models available to reduce fuel costs.

Set-Back Axle Bumper

• Designed for set-back axle trucks, allowing tighter turning radius.
• Improves tire ensuring performance and front bumper durability.
• Piping schedule options available for custom fitment.

Warranty information: 

Setback bumpers that are 20 inches don't have a warranty unless they fall under specific categories (COA, COB, LI series).

• COA - Columbia Setback Axle, 2008 & Newer
• Replaces steel center/plastic end bumpers 
• Mounting brackets come included

• COB Series - Century Setback Axle, 2008 & Newer)
• Replaces stainless-clad bumpers
• Mounting brackets come included

• LI Series (Volvo VT Setback Axle, 2006-2008)
• Made for Volvo VT models with setback axles from 2006-2008
• 18” and 20” width available only
• Standard with one set of upper license plate holes 

Set-Forward Axle Bumper

• Ideal for set-forward axle trucks, improving formed shape aerodynamics.
• Helps with basic driving functions and open hood accessibility.
• Works well with hinged bearing assembly for quick access.

Gullwing Bumper

• A stylish option for truckers who want a unique look.
• Often used on customized big rig setups.
• Helps in changing directions efficiently.

Open-End Bumper

This is a factory-style design that offers easy access to tow hooks and hitches. 

Choosing the Right Bumper for Your Semi Truck

• Consider the terrain: Highway, off-road, or moose bumper requirements.
• Balance weight and strength: Lighter models for fuel efficiency vs. heavier steel bumpers for stronger impact resistance.
• Factor in bumper guards: Protecting against smaller animals or bigger herd animals.
• Look at bumper customization options: Cutouts for OEM tow hooks, fog lights, and grille guards.

Bumper Weights: The Lightest and Heaviest Styles 

Steel bumpers are the heaviest, but most durable. 

Fiberglass and aluminum bumpers are the lightest and most fuel efficient, but not as durable. 

Heaviest bumpers

Boxed end bumpers (square boxed & American Eagle Boxed End) 

Why?

• These bumpers are built with reinforced, thick steel for maximum protection 
• It’s the strongest mount and can handle moderately heavy impacts 

Lightest Bumpers

Blind Mount Bumper and Standard Aluminum Bumpers 

Why? 

• Made from semi aluminum materials offering the lightest weight
• Better fuel efficiency due to lightness 

Bumper Style Suggestions for Your Semi Truck Model

Best Bumpers for Peterbilt 379, 386, 389

• Chrome Texas Square Rolled End BUmper w/ Tow and Light holes
• BESTfit 16-Inch Chrome Bumper for Peterbilt 386

Best Bumpers for Kenworth T800, T680, T660

• 17-Inch Chrome Aero-Bumper for Kenworth
• 20-Inch Stainless Steel Buzzard Bumper

Best Bumpers for Freightliner Classic, Cascadia, Century, Columbia

• 18-Inch Chrome Rolled End American Eagle Bumper for Freightliner Classic 
• Set Back Axle Bumper for Freightliner Century 

Best Bumpers for International 4300, ProStar

• Stainless Steel Chrome Bumper for International 4300
• 18-Inch Wrap Around Bumper with Fog Light & Tow Holes for International ProStar

Shop for Bumpers on Sale for Your Model at 4 State Trucks

Find aftermarket semi truck bumpers on sale for your semi truck model at 4 State Trucks. Call a member of our products team to get more information about the bumper style you're looking for.