Remember those bright green and white trucks that always seemed to appear around the holidays? For many, the Hess Toy Truck wasn’t just a toy; it was a cherished part of childhood, sparking imaginations and collecting memories. But for today’s parents and collectors, the excitement of finding the perfect Hess Truck can sometimes be overshadowed by a mountain of choices and the question: “Which one is the best for me?”
The world of Hess Trucks has expanded over the years, offering a dazzling array of models, special editions, and even varying features that can make picking the right one feel like a mission. Are you looking for that classic holiday truck to relive old memories, or a specific model to complete a collection? Maybe you’re trying to find a durable, fun toy for a young enthusiast. Navigating these options can be confusing, leaving you wondering where to begin.
But don’t worry! This post is your ultimate guide to understanding the magic behind Hess Trucks. We’ll dive into what makes these iconic vehicles so special, explore the different types you can find, and offer practical tips to help you choose the perfect Hess Truck, whether it’s for play, display, or a trip down memory lane. Get ready to discover the joy of Hess Trucks all over again!
Our Top 5 Hess Trucks Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
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2017 Hess Dump Truck and Loader | 8.7/10 | Check Price |
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Hess 1998 Truck Recreation Van with Dune Buggy and Motorcycle | 8.7/10 | Check Price |
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HESS 2000 FIRETRUCK | 9.2/10 | Check Price |
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Hess 2002 Truck and Airplane White in Color | 9.3/10 | Check Price |
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2004 Hess Sport Utility Vehicle w/ 2 Motorcycles | 9.5/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Hess Trucks Detailed Reviews
1. 2017 Hess Dump Truck and Loader
Rating: 8.6/10
Get ready for some serious fun with the brand-new 2017 Hess Dump Truck and Loader! This awesome toy is packed with features that make it a must-have for any young builder or collector. It’s built for action, just like the real thing.
What We Like:
- It has 26 lights that shine super bright, including cool LED headlights. You can even choose if they flash or stay steady!
- The hydraulic dumping action is button-activated and makes realistic sounds. It’s so cool to watch it work!
- There are three more sound effects: ignition, horn, and back-up. They make playtime even more exciting.
- The tailgate folds down and has a pull-out ramp, making it easy to load and unload.
- It has free-rolling wheels for smooth play on any surface.
- The shiny chrome accents give it a sharp, realistic look.
- Batteries are included, so you can start playing right away!
What Could Be Improved:
- The toy is quite large, so it might take up a good amount of storage space.
- While the sounds are fun, some might wish for more variety or volume control.
This 2017 Hess Dump Truck and Loader offers hours of engaging play with its realistic features and fun sounds. It’s an impressive addition to any toy collection and is sure to be a favorite for imaginative adventures.
2. Hess 1998 Truck Recreation Van with Dune Buggy and Motorcycle
Rating: 9.3/10
Get ready for adventure with the Hess 1998 Truck Recreation Van! This cool toy set brings back a classic with its detailed design and fun features. It includes a large truck, a speedy dune buggy, and a sleek motorcycle. Imagine all the exciting adventures you can create with this awesome trio!
What We Like:
- The truck’s lights really shine! It has real head, tail, and running lights that make it look just like the real thing.
- The dune buggy and motorcycle are super neat too. They also have their own working head and tail lights.
- You can zoom them around with their friction motors. Just push and watch them go!
- It’s a fantastic way to spark imaginative play and relive memories for collectors.
What Could Be Improved:
- The batteries are not included. You’ll need to buy Energizer Brand Batteries separately to get all the lights working.
- This is a collector’s item, so it might be hard to find.
This Hess 1998 Truck Recreation Van set offers hours of fun and a touch of nostalgia. It’s a great addition for any toy enthusiast or young adventurer!
3. HESS 2000 FIRETRUCK
Rating: 8.8/10
Get ready for action with the HESS 2000 FIRETRUCK! This awesome toy firetruck brings the excitement of the fire station right to your fingertips. It’s packed with cool features that make it look and sound like the real thing. Kids will love pretending to be brave firefighters, responding to emergencies and saving the day.
What We Like:
- It’s a hook and ladder firetruck, so it has a super long, heavy-duty extension ladder that stretches up to 22 inches.
- The working head and tail lights really light up the way.
- Pulsating emergency flashers add to the realistic effect.
- It has real emergency sirens and a loud horn to alert everyone.
- There are even more exciting features waiting for you to discover!
What Could Be Improved:
- The ladder, while long, can be a bit stiff for younger children to extend fully.
- The siren sound, while fun, can be quite loud and might surprise some parents.
The HESS 2000 FIRETRUCK offers fantastic imaginative play. It’s a durable and engaging toy that will provide hours of fun for aspiring firefighters.
4. Hess 2002 Truck and Airplane White in Color
Rating: 9.2/10
Remember the excitement of the Hess Toy Truck? This 2002 Hess Truck and Airplane set brings back those awesome memories! It features a crisp white truck and a matching airplane, ready for imaginative adventures. Kids will love playing with these classic toys.
What We Like:
- Classic Hess toy design that collectors and kids adore.
- The white color scheme looks super clean and cool.
- It’s a fun way to spark imaginative play and storytelling.
- The truck and airplane are sturdy and built to last.
What Could Be Improved:
- It requires Energizer brand batteries, which are not included in the box.
- Finding this specific 2002 model might be a little tricky since it’s an older collectible.
This Hess 2002 Truck and Airplane is a fantastic addition to any toy collection or a great gift for young enthusiasts. Get ready for hours of fun!
5. 2004 Hess Sport Utility Vehicle w/ 2 Motorcycles
Rating: 9.0/10
Get ready for adventure with the 2004 Hess Sport Utility Vehicle, celebrating Hess’s 40th Anniversary! This awesome SUV isn’t just any toy; it’s a 3-in-1 wonder that transforms for different play scenarios. It comes with two cool motorcycles that can be carried along or taken out for their own exciting rides. Built tough, this vehicle is ready for any imaginary journey you can dream up.
What We Like:
- The 3-in-1 feature makes it super versatile and fun.
- It includes two motorcycles, adding extra play value.
- The shock absorbers help it handle bumpy terrain.
- All-terrain tires mean it can go almost anywhere.
- It’s a special 40th Anniversary collectible.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some collectors might wish for more detailed accessories.
- The plastic parts could be a bit more robust for very rough play.
This 2004 Hess Sport Utility Vehicle is a fantastic toy for kids who love imaginative play and collecting. Its versatile design and included motorcycles offer hours of entertainment.
Hess Trucks: Your Guide to Finding the Perfect Toy
Hess trucks have been a beloved holiday tradition for generations. These collectible toy trucks, often released annually around the Christmas season, are known for their quality and detail. If you’re looking to start a collection, find a special gift, or simply want to learn more, this guide is for you.
Key Features to Look For
When choosing a Hess truck, several features make them stand out.
1. Durability and Construction
Hess trucks are built to last. Look for trucks made from sturdy plastic. They should feel solid in your hands, not flimsy. Good construction means the truck can withstand hours of play.
2. Realistic Details
One of the best parts of Hess trucks is their realistic design. Many feature working lights, opening doors, and moving parts like cranes or ladders. The paint jobs are usually very sharp and accurate to real vehicles.
3. Unique Design
Each year brings a new and exciting design. Some are oil trucks, others are emergency vehicles, construction trucks, or even spaceships! The variety keeps collectors coming back.
4. Battery Compartment Access
If the truck has lights, check how easy it is to access the battery compartment. A simple screw or latch makes changing batteries much easier for playtime.
Important Materials
Hess trucks primarily use high-quality plastics. This material is chosen for its strength and ability to hold intricate details. The plastic is usually smooth and safe for children. Some trucks might have small rubber tires for realistic rolling action.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Improving Quality
- Sturdy Plastic: Trucks made with thicker, more robust plastic are generally higher quality.
- Detailed Paintwork: Crisp, even paint applications without smudges or chips indicate careful manufacturing.
- Functional Lights and Sounds: Working lights and any sound features that operate smoothly add to the play value and perceived quality.
- Intact Packaging: For collectors, the original box in good condition significantly improves the truck’s value.
Reducing Quality
- Flimsy Plastic: Thin or brittle plastic can break easily, reducing the truck’s lifespan.
- Poor Paint Application: Sloppy paint jobs or peeling paint detract from the truck’s appearance.
- Non-Functional Parts: If lights don’t work or doors are hard to open, it lowers the quality.
- Damaged Packaging: Torn boxes or missing accessories can reduce a collectible’s value.
User Experience and Use Cases
For Playtime
Younger children love the interactive features. They can push the trucks around, activate the lights, and imagine exciting adventures. The durable construction means these trucks can handle being dropped or bumped during energetic play.
For Collectors
Many adults collect Hess trucks. They often keep them in their original boxes, displaying them as part of their holiday decorations or as a cherished collection. The annual release schedule creates anticipation and a sense of tradition.
As Gifts
Hess trucks make fantastic gifts. They are affordable, well-made, and carry a nostalgic appeal. They are perfect for birthdays, holidays, or as a special surprise for a child or a collector.
Hess Truck FAQs
Q: What are the main Key Features to look for in a Hess truck?
A: Key features include durable construction, realistic details like working lights and moving parts, unique yearly designs, and easy battery compartment access.
Q: What materials are typically used in Hess trucks?
A: Hess trucks are mainly made from high-quality, strong plastics. Some may have rubber tires.
Q: What factors make a Hess truck high quality?
A: High quality is seen in sturdy plastic, detailed paint, and working lights and sounds. Good packaging also improves quality for collectors.
Q: What can reduce the quality of a Hess truck?
A: Reduced quality comes from flimsy plastic, poor paint jobs, non-working parts, and damaged packaging.
Q: How do children typically use Hess trucks?
A: Children use them for imaginative play, pushing them around and enjoying the lights and sounds.
Q: How do collectors use Hess trucks?
A: Collectors often keep them in their original boxes for display, valuing them for their rarity and design.
Q: Are Hess trucks good for gifting?
A: Yes, they are excellent gifts because they are well-made, affordable, and have a nostalgic charm.
Q: How often are new Hess trucks released?
A: New Hess trucks are typically released annually, usually around the holiday season.
Q: Are Hess trucks still made today?
A: The Hess Corporation stopped producing toy trucks in 2014. However, the brand has since been revived by a new company, continuing the tradition with new models.
Q: Where can I buy Hess trucks?
A: You can find older Hess trucks on online marketplaces like eBay or at toy shows. New models are often available directly from the Hess toy truck website or select retailers.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.