Thinking of buying a used truck? Here is what you should consider

2019-09-12 | 3 mins

Goran Travancic

Whether its affordability or a lower rate of depreciation, buying a used truck can be a great way to expand your fleet. And with so many well-maintained fleet vehicles hitting the second-hand market, this might be a great time to invest in a used vehicle. Before you do that though, there is a few things to keep in mind to minimize the risks and make the right investment for your business.

Tip #1: Define why you need to invest in a used truck

Understanding your needs and defining the intended use for your truck is the first step you need to take in your buying journey. Some of the areas you should define include your requirements and the assignment the truck will be used and your budget. You should also think about what is important to you when it comes to appearances, performance and features. Making a list of must-haves when it comes to, engine, body or cabin can help specify your needs even further.

Tip # 2: Gather all the information you can

Once you have defined your parameters, information is the single most effective weapon at your disposal to choose the right truck. You must gather every piece of information about vehicle history, first registration, maintenance and repairs. You should understand how and for what the truck was used for and why it is now being sold. A thorough inspection, perhaps done with the help of a professional mechanic, should give a clear view of the current state and quality of the truck.

Tip #3: Decide where you will buy the truck

Then you should also think about where you would like to buy the truck. Starting your search online is a great way to gather more information and understand your options. You might consider an individual seller, a large online trader or your local dealership to make the actual purchase. It’s important to remember that with so many factors to consider and certain risks associated with older vehicles, it’s important to buy from a reputable seller. An individual seller might be the cheaper option in many cases but it will also be the riskier one. Dealerships can be more expensive, but you might consider this as the price you pay for the peace-of-mind you get for something that is reliable.

Whichever option you go for, the bottom line is that you need to do your due diligence before making such a significant investment. In order to help you prepare, I have put together a guide that outlines the things you should consider and the questions you should ask yourself before buying a used truck and minimize risks.