6 Things to Consider When Buying a Used Work Truck

Searching for your next custom work truck or truck body? Whether it’s a mechanic truck body or a flat deck truck, there are some important things to remember before purchasing. We know there are a lot of used trucks on the market right now, but before you run for your check book, check out these things to consider before buying a pre-owned vehicle for your business.

1. Interest Rates Are Lower for New vs. Used Vehicles.

The full cost of financing a new service truck or leasing a brand new truck is often less than buying a used truck. Lenders typically offer lower interest rates for new work trucks as they generally hold their value better than used vehicles, whereas lending rates for used vehicles are higher by as much as 10% because their trade-in value is less predictable.

2. Think Beyond Your Current Job.

Many employers expect their contracted mechanics and technicians to have reliable and up-to-date truck equipment in order to work on their job sites. Don’t count yourself out before the race even begins! Know the standards for service truck equipment in your sectors, including safety equipment such as lights, beacons, and buggy whips, and be sure your equipment is always in good working condition.

3. Don’t just check the mileage on the work truck

Be sure to check the hour meters on all your mounted equipment, including the compressor, welder, generator, and the truck itself. A truck may seem like a great deal with low mileage but you’ll be spending your hard-earned money repairing your equipment and components before long.

4. Location, Location, Location.

Try to find out where the truck has been operated in the past few years. Colder climates can do more damage to the truck’s body and components with salted roads and icy conditions.

5. Think Twice Before Looking South

You may see lots of ads for work trucks for sale in the United States, but be sure to do your homework before planning your trip south of the border. Exchange rates, conversion fees, and brokerage and transportation costs can add up quickly, and you may be on your own when it comes to maintenance, service, and support for your truck equipment down the road.

6. Think VALUE, Not Cost.

Don’t shy away from a higher up-front sticker price. Buying a new vehicle offers extra benefits including customizing the package to your exact needs, equipment being covered under manufacturer warranties, a higher resale value, and of course, peace of mind of owning a vehicle with a clean repair history. At Work Truck West, we provide clients all throughout Canada with custom work trucks including Winnipeg, Edmonton, Calgary, Vancouver and Toronto.

Whether you decide to buy new or used, we’re here to help with all your commercial work truck equipment needs. From mechanic truck bodies to toolboxes, cabinets to compressors, we sell and support everything you need to provide exceptional service from your road office. Contact us today to learn more.