Trucks Buyer Guide
Trucks in the heavy equipment context typically refer to vocational trucks like dump trucks, concrete mixers, flatbeds, and off-highway haul trucks. They are essential for transporting materials, equipment, and personnel to and from jobsites, primarily purchased by construction companies, aggregate suppliers, municipalities, and demolition contractors.
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Fast facts
- Typical used vocational truck prices: $35,000 - $180,000 (depending on age, type, condition)
- Operating weight ranges: Class 7 (26,001-33,000 lbs GVWR) to Class 8 (33,001+ lbs GVWR)
- Typical hours-of-life for engine/drivetrain: 10,000-15,000 engine hours or 300,000-500,000 miles before major overhaul
- Fuel usage: Varies greatly by engine size, load, and operation, typically 4-8 MPG for heavy vocational use
- Common attachments/configurations: Dump bodies, mixer drums, crane bodies, flatbeds, roll-off systems, snow plows
- Jobsite uses: Material hauling (dirt, aggregate, asphalt), concrete delivery, equipment transport, waste management, utility service
- Maintenance intervals: Oil changes typically every 250-500 engine hours or 10,000-20,000 miles
- Brake life: Can range from 50,000 to 200,000 miles depending on application and driving style
What to look for
- 1Check frame rails thoroughly for cracks, bends, or poor welds, especially near suspension mounts and body attachment points.
- 2Inspect the suspension components (springs, air bags, shocks) for excessive wear, leaks, or damage.
- 3Evaluate tire condition – look for uneven wear patterns, which can indicate alignment issues or suspension problems.
- 4Test all lights, signals, wipers, and horn – electrical gremlins can be time-consuming and expensive to fix.
- 5Operate PTO and hydraulic systems (dump body, mixer, crane) multiple times to check for smooth operation and leaks.
- 6Examine the engine for oil leaks, unusual noises, and exhaust smoke color (black, blue, white are red flags).
- 7Review service records for consistent maintenance, major repairs, and engine emissions system history.
- 8Check hour meter and odometer discrepancies; look for signs of tampering or if hour meter seems low for mileage.
- 9Test drive the truck to assess transmission shifting, brake feel, steering responsiveness, and differential noises.
- 10Inquire about telematics data for insights into operational habits, fault codes, and idle times.
Best makes & models
Peterbilt
389, 567Known for their premium build quality, driver comfort, and strong resale value, especially in vocational configurations.
Kenworth
T880, W900Offers robust construction and reliable performance, with a strong dealer network and good parts availability.
Mack
Granite, AnthemWidely respected for their durability and purpose-built vocational chassis, often preferred for heavy-duty applications like concrete and refuse.
Volvo
VHD, VNLProvides advanced safety features, comfortable cabins, and efficient powertrains, with strong OEM support.
Freightliner
114SD, M2 106A popular choice for versatility and customization, offering a good balance of cost-effectiveness and performance across various applications.
Models with known issues
Commonly-reported issues from operators and technicians. Every machine varies — always inspect before you buy.
Various Brands 2007-2010 Emission Models
Many early EPA-mandated emissions systems (DPF, EGR) from this era are commonly reported to be prone to frequent failures and costly maintenance.
Certain Manufacturers Specific older automated manual transmissions (AMTs)
Industry chatter suggests some early generation AMTs had reliability issues or less refined shifting characteristics compared to modern versions, leading to higher downtime.
Certain Brands Models with proprietary hydraulic systems
Some unique hydraulic systems can suffer from poor parts availability or require specialized service expertise, increasing repair times and costs.
Frequently asked questions
What is a reasonable price for a good used dump truck?
A good used dump truck in operational condition typically ranges from $60,000 to $120,000, depending heavily on its age, mileage, engine, and overall condition.
How many hours or miles are too many for a used truck?
While 10,000 engine hours or 300,000 miles can indicate significant use, a well-maintained truck with good service records can still offer considerable life, often depending on the specific engine and transmission.
Can I finance a used vocational truck?
Yes, financing for used vocational trucks is widely available through equipment lenders, banks, and dealership financing, with terms varying based on the truck's age and the buyer's creditworthiness.
What should I consider when arranging shipping for a heavy truck?
Consider the truck's dimensions and weight for proper trailer selection, ensure the carrier has appropriate insurance, and get clear quotes that include any permits or escorts required for oversized loads.
Do used trucks come with a warranty?
Most used trucks are sold 'as-is,' but some dealers or third-party providers offer extended warranties for powertrain components for an additional cost; always inquire specifically about coverage.
How important is resale value for a heavy truck?
Resale value is crucial as it impacts your total cost of ownership; popular makes, well-maintained vehicles, and common configurations generally command better resale prices.