Are you wondering what type of used truck is best for trucking? If YES, here are 10 best used trucks to start a trucking company with.
Buying a used Class 8 truck or other commercial rig is a smart way for owner-operators to save money in the early days of starting a trucking business.
Although newer models are wonderful due to mileage and compliance, they often carry the unfortunate downside of a six-figure price tag.
Your truck is more or less the most important investment you will make in your business, so it’s wise to approach a used truck dealer with key considerations in mind.
Many of the commercial truck transactions that take place these days occur online. The internet lets you see beyond your local area and also widen your search for good deals on trucks.
This is a wonderful way to make sure that you get the lowest price possible on your new heavy duty truck or semi-tractor trailer.
The only thing that you need to plan for is how far away the seller is from you because you need to test the truck yourself and have a mechanic you trust inspect it.
Once you have a general idea of the commercial truck market, feel free to speak to someone who specializes in lending to truck drivers and shipping companies.
Waiting until the end of the process to ensure that you have financing is a recipe for disaster. By speaking with a lender, you might be surprised by how much they will lend you, as well as how low current interest rates are.
You should also speak to an insurance broker about your policy and get new quotes from competing insurance agencies. They will be able to explain whether buying a used truck will affect your insurance costs.
Your new vehicle might qualify you for a lower premium. Additionally, a proven driving record is a great reason to ask for a break in your insurance costs.
10 Best Used Trucks to Start a Trucking Company
-
Ford L9000
This is a 1994 L9000 powered by a straight-6 Cummins L-10. Made just before the name changed to Sterling, Ford built these Semis throughout the 70’s up until the late 2000’s. ‘L’ series trucks are used in all sorts of mediums from dump trucks to tank trucks, a fifth-wheel semi is the one we’re looking at.
Note that being a ’94 makes this the Aeromax design introduced in 1988 after Kenworth redesigned the T600 to be more aerodynamic.
Note that it has a 10-speed w/ overdrive and a differential lock which is especially good in snowy conditions, also an A/C for those hot summer days.
-
Freightliner 122SD
Have it in mind that one of the most powerful semi trucks is the Freightliner 122SD. It can haul 210,000 pounds maximum, which is 28 times the max towing capacity of the F-150.
Its engine summons some 350 to 600 horses and up to 2,025 pound-feet of twist. It can be used for logging, in oil and gas fields, and in construction.
-
Mack CH600
The Mack CH series is a classic workhorse, and this one is no different. It might not look very promising, but this Mack features a Mack 12.0 six-cylinder engine that puts down 427 horsepower. It has surprisingly low mileage compared to some of the other trucks on this list at a little over 350,000 miles.
Tandem rear axles and a powerful motor helps to handle the heavier loads and with the low mileage. $9,000 may be on the higher side especially for a used truck, but this could be a worthy investment, even if the rig needs a little work.
-
Freightliner Columbia 112
Although this Columbia may not be much, not even having dual-rear axles, but the reason for the (somewhat high) price may come with the age as the truck appears to be made in this Millennial.
Furthermore, these trucks have been fleet maintained, which is an important advantage that could ultimately be in your best interest when buying a used truck, as most likely the oil has been changed and any issues with the truck have been taken care of.
This could also depend on the legitimacy of the company in question, so remain wary. Otherwise, this truck is a simple one; 10 speed with overdrive behind a capable Caterpiller C13. A good example of a potential bargain.
-
International Lonestar
If you are in the market for a truck that can haul special deliveries such as cattle, horses, and the like, then you ought to consider the International Lonestar.
International adds, The LoneStar doesn’t rely on its good looks, but on what’s under the hood: the Cummins X15. Available with 400–605 hp and between 1,450–2,050 lb.-ft. of torque, it brings big power and performance.
-
MAN TGA26
Made in Germany, MAN (which is now a part of Volkswagen who also owns Scania), can be acquired for cheap despite their high regard overseas. They’re used across all of Eurasia and Australia, but not found very often in North America, at least not common.
Although you may find some great deals on these, from around 5,000 pounds (about $7,000 and up), but it is necessary you go for a 440hp D20 engined mid-lift 6×2 with the XXL cab.
Having a 12-speed automatic is good for just about anyone and the power-steering makes this a decent buy. Low mileage and reportedly a strong motor, these are all good things to look for in a truck.
-
International LT Series
The International LT Series is a wonderful semi truck for long hauls and can also be used as a tanker. You can get it in two engine trims: the International A26 that produces 400-475 hp and up to 1750 lb.-ft. of torque and the Cummins X15 that produces 400-565 hp and up to 2,050 lb.-ft. of torque.
-
Volvo FE613
Another very good contestant in the under-$10,000 bargain trucks, this one is complete with tandem-axles and a sleeper cab. Note that these Volvos come with a very durable Detroit Diesel 60 that was made from 1987 to 2011. With Volvo and Detroit Diesel’s reputation for reliability and dependability, this rig is a no-brained! However, you may get a little dirty doing a tune-up, the trucks reputation and survival should speak volumes to any potential truck buyer.
-
Kenworth T680
“The Kenworth T680 employs a suite of technologies and design features that elevate the driving experience to new heights of safety, efficiency, and satisfaction,” according to Kenworth. This truck features predictive cruise control, predictive neutral coast ability, Driver Rewards, as well as 13 or 11 L engines with a 12-speed automatic transmission.
-
Volvo VNL 860
The best semi from Volvo is the VNL 860. The Volvo VNL 860 was actually designed with fuel efficiency in mind. This is apparent in its exterior, which in the latest iteration is the most aerodynamic and fuel-efficient version yet. It features the I-Shift transmission.
Your truck is the most important investment you will make in your business, so it is wise to approach a used truck dealer with key considerations in mind. With a discerning eye and commitment to finding a perfect fit, you are further empowering yourself as an owner-operator, ensuring business success for years to come.