There’s a lot to be said for buying a used semi. Here’s what you need to know:
The Case for Buying Used
The biggest reason to buy a used semi is cost. Purchasing a used semi-truck in good condition will save you thousands of dollars and still get the job done just fine. Semi-trucks are built to drive hundreds of thousands of miles, so you can be sure there’s a lot of life left in many of the used rigs on the market.
Do Your Research
Your research needs to focus on answering two basic questions:
- What type of semi-truck do you need?
- Is the vehicle you’re considering the right one?
What type of semi-truck do you need?
Buyers need to assess their needs carefully before shopping for a semi. There are lots of options available and it helps to narrow your search to those that meet your needs. You’ll want to consider the following:
- What routes will you be driving and in what conditions? Local, largely flat routes call for a much different vehicle than long-haul routes driven in rough weather and over challenging roads.
- What will you be hauling?
- Are you delivering to docks, curbside, or ground?
- How much useful life would you like to get out of the vehicle
- What is your budget?
- Will you need a loan?
- What is your budget for repairs and maintenance going forward?
- Are you interested in extended warranties or other types of purchase protection?
With answers to these questions in hand, you can narrow your selection down to a handful of makes and models to suit your needs.
Is the vehicle you’re considering the right one?
Now you’re ready to take a deeper look at the models you’ve selected. For each option, you’ll want to know the following:
- The vehicle’s history. Reputable used truck dealers will be able to provide you with a history report that includes previous owners, maintenance records, accidents, repairs, mileage, compliance info, and more. Don’t proceed without a history report.
- Current condition. You want to inspect the truck in person. Look for damage. Take it for a test drive.
- Ask about warranties. Many used truck dealers offer warranties on the vehicles they sell. Many will offer a warranty that covers the first 90 days or 25,000 miles at no cost and then will add additional coverage according to your needs and preferences. This protection adds value to your purchase and helps you buy with confidence.
- Ask about maintenance. Every truck needs to be maintained. Different manufacturers have different maintenance schedules and requirements for their vehicles. Do some digging to learn what you can expect your semi to need over the next year, five years, and ten years. You’ll find this data differs quite a bit between makes and models, so it’s important to factor it into your decision.
Buy From a Trusted Dealer
Your semi is your livelihood; buying from a trusted, reliable dealer is the only way to go. This decision is about more than finding a used Mack truck for sale; it’s about purchasing a vehicle that can be a steady source of income for you and your family for years to come. A professional, experienced used semi dealer offers great selection, solid customer service, and peace of mind.
Shop for your new-to-you semi-truck today.
