4 Things You Need to Know Before Buying a Semi Truck

Buying a semi truck is a large and serious investment. From axles to horsepower to capacity, make sure you have answered some key questions before making your purchase.

4 Things You Need to Know Before Buying a Semi Truck
Although there are many different brands of semi trucks to choose from, buying a semi truck is easy when you know what to look for – and also what to avoid. Following these 4 important steps will help make sure that you are buying a semi truck that will take you where you need to be, safe and on-time.


Determining Budget

The sheer volume of new and used semi trucks for sale on the market means that you’ll be able to easily find one that meets your budget. With that said, the more axles, cargo, and horsepower you need, the more it will cost. Here is what you can expect to pay for new and used semi trucks for sale:
  • New Semi Trucks – Between $80,000 to $150,000 for most new models on average, if not more.
  • Used Semi Trucks – The best-kept used semi trucks for sale can be $100,000, a 7-year-old semi truck can cost between $30,000 and 40,000, and semi trucks that are 10-years or more cost substantially less.

Determining History

If you are buying a new semi truck, be sure to thoroughly investigate the different brands of semi trucks on the market for both reputation and quality. You want to especially research the semi truck’s engine model and choose one that will get you well over one million miles. The engine should be able to go at least 700,000 miles before showing problems.

Buying a semi truck with no maintenance documentation is a gamble that most business owners will not be willing to take. If you are looking for used semi trucks for sale, the best sellers will have up-to-date records on all maintenance (including oil changes), accidents, and any additional upgrades. Aside from helping you determine the value, knowing a vehicle’s history will also help you determine what parts may need to be replaced in the near future.


How Many Axles

Different semi trucks are built for different types of hauls. Some are built for short trips with lots of stops, while others are designed for long-distance transportation across the open road. The more axles you add onto your semi truck, the more weight you’ll be able to transport – however, steering becomes more difficult with multiple axles, and the cost increases as well.


Horsepower and Capacity

When buying a semi truck, consider what it is that you’ll be hauling. If you are towing heavy equipment, for example, then you are going to need much more horsepower than you would for transporting lightweight goods. As for capacity, be sure to choose a semi truck that will have enough room for your business to grow – otherwise, you could be spending money buying a semi truck all over again once your operations expand.


Are You Buying a Semi Truck?

With an extensive history in heavy equipment and commercial truck sales dating all the way back to 1958, My Little Salesman is proud to list an extensive array of new and used day cabs and semi trucks with sleepers for sale that will meet all of your hauling needs. Be sure to browse our commercial trucks today and feel free to contact our sellers directly using our convenient online layout.
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About Kyler Richman
Kyler is a reporter and staff writer at My Little Salesman.
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