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Why You Need To Consider A Used Semi-Truck

11 September 2017

George Newman

Being a truck driver for your own business can be extremely rewarding because of all the great benefits and pay. However, if you are just starting out, you may not think you can afford to purchase a semi-truck. Instead of only considering new trucks, check out used semi-trucks. You'll still get an incredible vehicle, but you'll save money. Check out these five reasons you should consider buying a used semi-truck instead of buying new or leasing.

They Are Less Expensive

A new semi-truck will run you about $100,000 to $150,000, depending on the type of truck and the features. For any small business, that is a lot to spend right from the start. Instead of investing so much in a new truck, get a used one instead because they cost between $15,000 and $100,000. That way, you can spend more money on other things or simply save the money for future needs. It's especially important to buy used if trucking is just something you want to try. You don't want to spend a fortune on a career you might not enjoy.

Operating Costs Are Lower

Most of the operating costs are lower with used semi-trucks. Costs like insurance and registration are usually lower with used vehicles because they are worth less than newer models. If you purchase a new truck, you're likely to have higher premiums to protect the insurance carrier in the event of an accident. There is one operating cost that you'll want to watch out for. Because newer vehicles are usually more fuel efficient, a used truck may have poor gas mileage. However, it is still possible to find a used, older truck that gets great gas mileage. Just make sure you shop around and ask.

There Is Less Depreciation

New trucks are desirable because they are new. No one has used them before, so you know there are no secret problems or repairs that need to be done. Because of this, however, they tend to have an inflated price. You pay a lot more than the truck is soon worth. This becomes a problem if your truck is totaled or if you need to trade it in or sell it suddenly because you won't get nearly as much as you paid for it. However, used trucks don't have those high prices. Their sticker prices are closer to their actual worth. Therefore, if you buy a used truck and have to sell or trade it in soon, you'll get back almost as much as you paid.

You Can Afford What You Want

If you're new to trucking, you might not be familiar with everything you need to be successful, or you may not be familiar with everything you need vs. everything you want. If you're buying a new truck from a new semi-truck dealer, they may try to upsell you to something you don't really need. It may not be a problem once you're an established driver, but when you're starting out, it's best to stick with what you need, so you don't overspend. On the other hand, if you do buy used, you may be able to get some of those unnecessary but fun features because the truck is cheaper in general.

The Truck Belongs to You

Leasing is another option when it comes to semi-trucks. You can basically rent a semi-truck to use for a specific amount of time. Once the lease is up, you have the right to buy the truck or switch to a new lease and a new truck. This is great because it gives you the freedom of changing your truck frequently. However, you don't own the truck, so you can't do whatever you want with it. Plus, if you decide to buy the truck after the lease is up, you'll end up spending much more than you would have if you bought the truck from the start.

If you think trucking could be a great career opportunity for you, don't rush out and start looking at new trucks. Used trucks give you everything you need without the high price tag. For more information regarding used semi-trucks, contact a provider, such as Arrow Truck Sales, today. 

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