Tips for Buying Commercial Trucks Online
As business slowly starts returning to normal following COVID-19, belts are being tightened and companies are looking to save money wherever they can. Besides that, minimal contact is still being advised, and technology has taken centre-stage in the marketplace – even, to an extent with vehicle and truck sales.
You’ll find a number of dealers who have commercial trucks for sale. But according to Theunis Botha, Truck Sales and Workshop Manager for Impala Truck Sales, research is the key to making the right choice.
“Buying brand new is great”, says Theunis. “But it’s not always the most viable choice for your business; especially in the post-COVID-19 world”, he adds.
“THERE ARE MANY COMMERCIAL TRUCKS FOR SALE…”
Theunis continues, “If you’re buying online, going to a reputable second-hand commercial trader should be your first step. There are many commercial trucks for sale and a lot of options as far as dealers are concerned.
“Always do your homework before buying a second-hand truck. It’s not just about getting a truck that looks good. This is a decision that will have consequences for you and your business for a long time – potentially years. So, make sure you get the right truck for the job.
“Start by looking at fuel economy and then look at what the maintenance requirements are going to be. Ask yourself the question, ‘Will the dealer be able to take care of the maintenance requirements on an ongoing basis?’ and if not, ‘Will your company’s budget and time allow you to do it?’”
DO YOU HAVE A MECHANIC ON STANDBY?
“In my experience, having a workshop on standby is the best possible choice you can make when you buy a second-hand commercial truck online. And make sure that they are in your area or are at least on a route that is easily accessible to you.
“With second-hand commercial vehicles or used tractor trailers for sale, always try to get a full rundown from the dealer on the major-wearing components; starting with the tyres. Next, check the brakes and the shocks. These components are good indicators of the vehicle’s service status and history. You can always request photographs from the dealer if you’re buying online.
DON’T BUY THE PREVIOUS OWNER’S PROBLEMS
“If major wear components are not checked and replaced regularly, they can do more damage than you might expect, causing ‘knock-on’ effects that will result in breakdowns. When you buy second-hand, you don’t want to be inheriting the previous owner’s problems. So, again, I can’t stress the importance of research enough.”
THE RIGHT TRUCK FOR THE JOB
Theunis concludes with some advice on choosing the right kind of second-hand commercial truck for your business. He says, “Fuel is a massive part of company spend and you should be looking for something that is as light on fuel as possible, right up front.
“Don’t cut corners when you choose a truck for a specific job either. If you need a good long-haul vehicle, invest where it counts; in something that can stand the test of time and will not fail your driver on long journeys. If you need a good off-roader, make sure you get a rugged vehicle that can handle all the dirt and rough terrain – and so on.”
GET MORE ADVICE FROM THE EXPERTS
If you are looking to buy a commercial truck or trailer online, the Impala Truck Sales team is on-hand with affordable, quality-tested used vehicles and trailers to suit your business. Get in touch today for more expert advice to help you make that all-important decision.
