Buying a truck can be a large undertaking; if you run a small business it may be one of your biggest purchases if not the biggest. Even if you company is large, the need to replace a truck or add to your fleet requires some thought and financial planning.
Inevitably, one of the main decisions is whether you go for a new truck with new all singing, all dancing accessories or whether a good used truck will fulfil your needs. Once you have pinned down your needs, a search on the Internet on a second-hand truck website will save you time as it will quickly show you a wide range of trucks in the category and/or price range you have chosen.
If you are starting up a new venture then paying instalments on a new truck may be too much of a financial burden. A used truck will allow you to test the waters without too high a risk. Also ask yourself what you really need in terms of size, accessories and gadgets? It may be that you can get by with a small fairly simple used truck most of the time and rent a bigger more sophisticated truck only on the odd occasions that you need it.
Similarly a consideration of engine size is important; if you will often be driving a long way and/or regularly carrying heavy loads then a large engine may be worth it, but bear in mind that a larger engine will affect initial cost, fuel costs and probably repair and service costs.
You also need to think whether you regularly need towing capabilities and how many passenger seats you require. Consideration of all of these factors before you make a purchase could save you money, increase your profits and prevent a nagging feeling of regret at not having made the best decision you could.
Online purchase of a used truck is not really too different to more traditional modes of buying. In many ways it is just easier as you can get a wide range of information about a number of vehicles, including photos, right in front of you in your own home. You will still want to check age and mileage as well as service and maintenance records and how long the current M.O.T. is. If you are not satisfied with the information you find on the Internet then you can always find out if you can contact the seller by email or phone to ask for further clarifications on any specifics about the truck you are interested in.
Areas where you can increase your confidence in the process include consideration of brand and warranty. If you know a trusted truck making company with a reputation for quality and longevity in relation to their vehicles, then a slightly older truck from that company may still represent a good buy all other things considered. In addition many sellers of used trucks offer warranties, some extendable or expandable by paying more. With a warranty you can relax knowing that any unforeseen faults will be covered.
