How to Find the Best Used Heavy Haul Truck for Sale
Shopping for aggregate equipment is no easy task. There are so many options out there, and making the wrong choice can prove costly down the line. Purchasing new equipment might also not be viable due to the hefty costs involved, which brings us to the second option; buying used equipment.
Sure, buying used equipment can save you big on costs. But it also comes with a lot of risks. If you don't exercise due diligence, you could end up with faulty equipment, or even a stolen one, in the worst-case scenario. To reduce these risks and ensure a quality purchase, consider these factors when shopping for used aggregate equipment.
Check Fluid Levels
You'll first want to check the equipment's fluid levels.
Various fluids in aggregate equipment can reflect the upkeep and warn of future problems. Some fluids you can check include engine oil, transmission fluid, coolant, hydraulic fluid, etc.
Analyzing these fluids will give you insights into the equipment's present conditions and how well it has been maintained over time. Dirty and low fluids are potential red flags. They indicate the equipment has not been maintained as per the required maintenance standards.
If the fluids are leaking, that signifies a larger complication. Invest in equipment that's free of leakage, fluid mixture, reduced levels, and contamination.
Look Into the Equipment's History
One of the critical things to do before buying used aggregate equipment is to check its history. Ensure the equipment is not stolen and there are no liens against it.
One way to check ownership of used equipment is to look for the item's serial number. Once you have the equipment's serial number, have your local police station run the number to see if the equipment has been reported stolen.
Next, perform a simple online search or contact a title company to help you figure out whether there are liens on the equipment.
Check the Equipment's Operating Hours
The amount of time the equipment was used can help determine its future usefulness. While operating hours may not indicate the condition of the aggregate equipment, they can give you insights into the equipment's age and lifespan. Avoid buying equipment that's pushing its upper limit, but if you must buy it, factor that into the price.
Equipment that has been overly used (judged by the number of operating hours) may require more maintenance, which comes at an additional cost. The chances of such equipment breaking down are also high compared to those with fewer operating hours.
How is the Seller's Reputation?
The seller's reputation matters most when buying used aggregate equipment.
A reputable seller will not sell you stolen equipment. They will also not sell faulty or sub-par quality items. Doing simple research on the individual or company selling the equipment can reveal a lot about them.
A simple Google search will give you insights into what it feels like working with the seller based on reviews from customers who have worked with them in the past. If the company has had fraud cases before, you'll find that information online.
If the seller is reliable or has established themselves as a trusted resource in the industry, it will be easier to trust the specs on their equipment. But if they are difficult to find and have no online presence or many negative reviews, that's a red flag.
Determine the Signs of Wear and Tear
All used equipment will have signs of wear and tear. It's your responsibility, as the buyer, to ensure the degree of wear won't impact its performance and future use. Avoid equipment with serious signs of wear and tear, such as hairline cracks, rust, or damage that could lead to a major breakdown in the future.
What is the Listing Price?
At the end of the day, it will come down to price.
Even if the equipment meets all your specifications and has no major signs of wear and tear, can you afford it? Because if it's in the same price range as new equipment, you're better off with a new one. The price of a used machine should represent its worth based on its age, operating time, and maintenance. It should also not be incredibly low, as this might raise questions.
What's Next?
Now that you know what to look for in used aggregate equipment, what's next?
Visit a reputable seller and consider these factors when looking for the right equipment for your needs. If you're in the US, Boom & Bucket is a great place to start. Established itself as a trusted source of all things heavy equipment, we have a huge clientele of satisfied customers to back its claims.
Contact us today at 888-333-1597 or visit our online marketplace to see the variety of aggregate equipment on sale that are perfect for your business.Buying a used heavy haul truck is a gamble, but you can still get a good deal on a decent used heavy haul truck if you research thoroughly. This article will go through what you need to consider when looking for the best used heavy haul truck for sale.
The Type of Used Heavy Haul Truck
The market has different types of heavy haul trucks. As a result, it's essential to understand each type and how it will fit your needs before making a purchase decision. The common types of used heavy haul trucks include:
a) Semi Truck: The semi-truck is the most common type of used heavy haul truck. They are highly versatile and often transport goods over long distances. Semi-trucks also have massive horsepower, making them ideal for long hauls. On the flip side, these trucks require a lot of fuel and are challenging to maneuver.
b) Dump Truck: Dump trucks transport massive amounts of material. While they are not ideal for long distances, they are suitable for home use and construction sites. They also work well on rough terrains. They also have a hydraulic lift that makes it easier to dump their load, hence the name dump trucks.
c) Tow Truck: Tow trucks are used to pull other vehicles. These trucks are ideal for private property owners looking to haul construction equipment or cars. We recommend an enclosed trailer tow truck because it can tow a trailer and has the power to pull anything out of your way.
d) Box Truck: Box trucks transport large and odd-shaped cargo. They are not ideal for long hauls and don't have the horsepower of other semi-trucks. But these trucks are highly maneuverable and can hold their own in tight spaces.
How You Plan to Use It
Before you purchase a used heavy haul truck, you need to consider the uses of the truck. These include:
a) Towing: If you're planning to use your heavy haul truck for towing, get a truck from the tow truck category. If you're going to tow a trailer, get a tow truck with a drop deck.
b) Moving: A big truck is ideal for delivery purposes. But you must ensure it's maneuverable and has power for tight spots. We recommend box trucks for moving large appliances and goods because they are more maneuverable than other types of trucks.
c) Hauling: Are you looking for a unit that can haul heavy cargo long distances? It would be best if you had a semi truck. These heavy-duty hauling trucks have massive torque and horsepower, making them ideal for all your hauling needs. You can also hook them up to flatbeds or low beds to haul construction equipment.
d) Delivery/Transport: If you're in the market for a truck to transport soft drinks, beverages, beer, or liquors, get a heavy haul truck with long delivery trailers and roll-up doors. Also, ensure the truck and trailer has good suspension to ensure products arrive at their destination in good condition.
e) Recycling and Garbage Collection: If you're looking for a truck to service business needs, get a heavy haul truck with a loading bay big enough to hold all the recyclables, garbage, and trash. Garbage trucks are specially built to load garbage and haul it to landfills or solid waste incineration facilities.
How Do You Determine the Value of a Used Heavy Haul Truck?
Like most purchases, it's essential to know the value of a heavy haul truck before you make a purchase. Here are things to consider when determining the value of your heavy haul truck:
a) Model Year: The newer the model, the more expensive it will be. If you want a good deal on a used heavy haul truck, be ready to pay more for new models.
b) Make: If you're looking for a used heavy haul truck with a specific make, research information about that make beforehand. Make sure the truck has been inspected by authorized experts and has not been reported for significant problems. Big brands will always cost more than the less popular ones.
c) Engine: The more powerful the engine, the more expensive the used heavy haul truck will be. Engine size also affects how much it will cost to run.
d) Condition: The condition of the used heavy haul truck is a critical factor when determining value. It would be best if you got an inspection done on the truck before finalizing your purchase. This inspection will guarantee that you're not wasting your money on a piece of junk.
e) Extras: Extras such as side doors, roll-up doors, and hydraulic lifts increase the price of a used heavy haul truck. You can expect to pay more for extras than basic units if you're in the market for this used heavy haul truck.
Suitable Hours for Used Heavy Haul Trucks
Heavy haul trucks are built to be tough. On average, a heavy haul truck can do 750,000 miles or more. Some even go over the one-million-mile mark! You can expect a good deal on a truck with 500,000 on the odometer.
List of Things to Inspect as A Buyer
When looking for a used heavy haul truck, get an inspection done by a professional mechanic. It's essential to look at the following things:
a) Engine: The engine is expensive and is one of the most common repair jobs on heavy haul trucks. You'll also want to look at oil and transmission fluids. A good tip is to ask what oil they use on the truck and find out if they have had any overheating issues or if anything has been fixed in that area.
b) Mechanical: Check the transmission, brakes, suspension, and axels for excessive wear. Make sure all parts move freely and do not have excessive play in them.
c) Body: The body of a heavy haul truck requires a lot of maintenance to keep it looking good. You can remove all rust by sandblasting or painting the truck to make it look good again.
d) Electrical: Look for switches, fuses, and wiring that are not in the proper condition or could be dangerous while driving.
e) Lights: Check for lights that do not work and for turned-off lights. If any are damaged or burnt out, ask them to be fixed before finalizing the purchase.
f) Suspension: Suspension is essential for a good ride after a long haul. Another vital factor to check when looking for a used heavy haul truck is the rebound of the suspension. These suspension systems adjust themselves after going over bumps on the road. A high rebound is ideal because it absorbs shocks and gives you an even ride.
g) Brakes: Last but not least is the brakes. Always inspect if all the brakes are functioning correctly. You can have the brakes replaced or repaired depending on their condition. You must ensure they are fixed before finalizing the purchase if they are damaged.
Buying a used truck is brilliant for businesses, as you can save thousands of dollars. Some think that because it's used, it will not last, but this is typically not the case. With proper maintenance, a used heavy haul truck can last for years. We hope this guide will help you find an excellent used heavy haul truck before buying it.