Buying a used commercial truck is an important decision because you are going to make a huge transaction. You have to wisely take your steps for your workhorse because this can be both an investment saver and an investment waster. You should carefully evaluate pre-owned commercial trucks to protect yourself from costly mistakes. You should also consider other factors such as priorities, budget, types of vehicles, size of the truck, history of the truck, important inspections, tires, and license. Here are some tips to help you make the right decision.
1. Find Trusted Used Truck Dealers
The most important tip before you set foot on a lot is to search for centers of used commercial trucks for sale. You can find a wide variety of truck categories, such as sleepers, day cabs, dump trucks, medium-duty, and refuse trucks. These centers have a comprehensive inventory of pre-owned trucks from many renowned models. Whether you are a seasoned fleet manager or a first-time buyer, centers of used commercial trucks for sale assist you with financing options, body shop capabilities, leasing, and rental services.
2. Check the Truck’s Past Records
Before buying, you should ask all the questions about the history because this is a large investment. Sometimes, a clean-looking truck is hiding big defaults behind itself. You should also request accident records, ownership transfers, service history, V5 paperwork, MOT dates, and specifications. You should also demand maintenance records to determine whether the previous owner has upgraded its parts or not. If you feel that something is off, then you should move on to the next one.
3. Inspect the Truck Physically Yourself
You should schedule a meeting with a dealer before buying and take a close look at all the parts of the truck. You should also check for responsive brake pads and rotors, whether they perform well, or if you hear unusual noises like squealing or grinding during the test drive. You should also pay attention to additional equipment, such as a locking cap on the fuel tank, wheel arches, and upholstery, to ensure the truck is secure and in optimum condition.
4. Inspect Tires and Take a Test Drive
Take a moment to check the overall condition of the loader tires for any cuts, cracks, or bruises in the sidewall area before buying the truck. A quick visual inspection, such as checking for improper inflation, damage, or foreign objects stuck in the tread, can save you from more serious issues after buying. Do not forget to test drive the truck to check the trade plates, spinning, and engine performance.
5. Do Not Ignore Truck Interiors and Exteriors
Most people overlook the interior parts and lights of pre-owned trucks before buying. Check for AC problems such as low refrigerant levels, weak airflow, clogged filters, odd smells, and warm air blowing instead of cool. Another important step is to ensure that all warning lights and headlights are working properly. Check the headlights in a wide-open area, such as a parking lot, to confirm your investment is going to pay off well.
