The process of purchasing a semi-truck can seem overwhelming. After all, you’re making a significant investment in your business/career. There are many factors and choices to consider.
The first step is deciding whether to buy a new or used rig. Sure, buying a brand new model may come with sparkle and shine; but the benefits of a used truck can significantly outweigh the bells and whistles of a new one.
Here are some of the advantages of buying a used truck.
Lower Costs
Used semi-trucks are significantly cheaper than new ones. For comparison purposes, let’s take a quick look at the average price ranges of new trucks offered by major manufacturers. (Data is based on 2020 models.)
Freightliner Cascadia – $100,000 to $160,000
Kenworth T680 – $127,000 – $159,000
Peterbilt 579 – $149,000 to $164,000
Tesla – $150,000 to $300,000
Volvo – $147,000 – $149,000
Comparatively, here’s a list of actual auction sales prices from DPA auctions held from December 15, 2020 through January 26, 2021:
2006 Freightliner Columbia Truck – $13,200
2010 IHC ProStar Truck – $8,600
2013 Peterbilt 337 – $25,000
2007 International 8600 Day Cab Truck – $22,400
2009 Kenworth T800 Day Cab – $23,100
2006 Peterbilt 379 Extended Hood Conventional Truck – $35,500
2012 Peterbilt 386 Truck – $23,200
2009 Peterbilt 387 – $18,800
2016 Mack Rawhide Truck – $28,500
2013 Kenworth T370 Daycab Truck – $25,000
2006 Peterbilt 379 Sleeper Truck – $26,000
2014 Peterbilt 386 Truck – $15,500
Granted, the age, mileage, and condition of trucks sold at auction vary from truck to truck, but the affordable prices merit much consideration.
For further comparison, all of our previous auction results, complete with full descriptions, can be found here.
Greater Selection
Buyers have a much better selection when buying used because there are usually more used semi-trucks for sale than new ones. Our online auction process puts you (the buyer) in the driver’s seat. You have everything you need right at your fingertips to choose the best truck for you. Plus, DPA Auctions offers an educated team of advisors to assist you all along the way.
When buying with us, you never deal with any high-pressure sales pitches for “extras” that you don’t need. We run our auctions with integrity and full-disclosure. Every item up for bid is carefully inspected, photographed and described in a manner that allows our customers to bid with confidence.
Avoids Depreciation
It’s no secret that when you buy a brand-new semi (or any vehicle, for that matter), it depreciates in value as soon as you drive it off the lot. The largest percentage of depreciated value occurs within the first year.
Your investment in a used truck is more solid because used models hold their value much greater than new ones. When the time comes to sell a used truck, if well maintained, it is often possible to sell it for around the price you paid for it.
Lower Operating Costs
The operating costs of used semi-trucks are generally much lower than the costs associated with new trucks.
Insurance rates for used trucks are cheaper. The high price tag on new trucks means higher insurance premiums because the more the truck is worth, the more you’ll have to pay for coverage.
Buying used also saves you money on sales tax and registration fees. The fees vary state by state, but generally registration costs are lower for used trucks. Also, some states do not charge sales tax on used vehicles.
Our prerogative at DPA Auctions is to provide a seamless buying experience. Our intricate data processing and telecommunication system finds and unites buyers with compatible sellers. We handle it all—accurate listings, money transfer, title transfer and lien searches. We offer convenient and efficient delivery and a very secure payment process. We do this through a customer-first methodology. Our customers are our number one priority.
For more information, call us today at 800-492-9090 or Contact us.