A commercial truck can be a wonderful addition to many business, both new and growing. Whether you need products delivered, or heavy equipment moved, a commercial truck can be beneficial to your business.
Often, a relatively small business may prefer to buy a used commercial truck so that they can take advantage of nearly all the perks of a new truck, but at a much smaller price.
It is advisable to spend some time researching commercial trucks so that you get the right vehicle, with the right features, at the right price for your business needs.
Part 1 of 2: Find the right pre-owned commercial truck for you and your business
Step 1: Choose the type of commercial truck. Commercial trucks are available in all shapes and sizes, come with a wide variety of options and safety features, and can vary greatly in price.
The first thing you should do when you decide to purchase a used commercial truck, is figure out exactly what kind of truck your business needs, so you can narrow your scope as you begin searching for the best used commercial trucks.
- Tip: If you are having a hard time deciding what commercial truck is right for you and your business, try asking some other local businesses what they use, or what they recommend.
Step 2: Check out online automotive marketplaces. There are countless online listings for used commercial trucks, allowing you to really get a feel for the market and get an idea of the asking price for a pre-owned truck.
- Tip: Try sites such as Craigslist, eBay Motors, and Truck Paper, and familiarize yourself with the kind of trucks that you’re interested in and the prices associated with these trucks.
Step 3: Check local dealers and truck rental companies. Call your local truck dealer to see if they have any used commercial trucks available and contact any local commercial truck rental companies to see if they have any used trucks that they are looking to sell.
- Tip: If a local dealer or rental company has a commercial truck that you’re interested in, take it for a test drive so you can get accustomed to driving commercial trucks and also help you decide on the right truck for you.
Step 4: Compare prices. After you’ve sufficiently scoped out both the local and the online commercial truck markets, it’s time to start comparing prices.
- Tip: Compare truck prices between sources and also compare the prices to your budget. Remember to compare it to the Kelley Blue Book estimates for used commercial trucks as well and ensure that you get a fair deal when you purchase the truck.
Part 2 of 2: Purchase a used commercial truck
Step 1: Have the vehicle inspected. Before you purchase a used commercial truck, you’ll want to make sure that the vehicle is in as good of condition as it was advertised.
To do this, have a reputable mobile mechanic come and take a look at the truck that you are interested in buying. They can perform a full pre-purchase inspection and safety inspection for you and determine whether the truck is in pristine condition.
Step 2: Negotiate a purchasing price. Never settle for the first price that a seller is offering as it may be rather high.
Instead, try to talk them down to a price that’s more suitable for you. Use your knowledge of what the truck should be worth, what competitors are charging, and how the inspection went, to work your way to a price that feels right to you. Agree on a price for the vehicle.
- Tip: Don’t be afraid to walk away from a potential truck, if you think it might get you a better price. If the seller calls your bluff, you can always go back the next day and purchase the truck.
Step 3: Figure out a payment plan. After you agree to buy a truck, consider the best method of payment and form a payment plan.
You may need to provide a check or a money order for the down payment, and then finance the rest, either through a bank or through an auto lender.
You may also have to negotiate with the bank or lender to decide the payment terms for your auto loan.
- Warning: Make sure that you use the services of only a highly reputable bank or lender when purchasing a commercial truck to avoid financial problems.
Step 4: Follow the seller’s instructions. The truck seller will let you know what paperwork you will need to finalize the transaction.
As long as you work with them and provide them with the information they need, the transaction will go smoothly and the truck will be yours in no time.
A pre-owned commercial truck may be the perfect addition to your business. If so, follow these steps to ensure that you get the right truck at a suitable price for you.
