Unlike choosing a car to purchase, finding a used bucket truck is far different and much more technical. The decision to purchase such a vehicle is not usually based on its color, how many miles it gets per gallon, its seating capacity or the amount of groceries it could hold. When investing in this type of commercial vehicle, the most important thing is to make sure that it is going to be a good asset for the business and that it can promise a reasonably fast return of investment. Research into the purchase will require knowing all facts that should be considered by an astute buyer. Following are some of the facts and options to consider in this process.
Brand New vs. Used
Choosing between a brand new and a pre-owned bucket truck is a matter of practicality. Brand new vehicles are a good investment since they have a longer service life with excellent quality and performance usually ensured by the fact that it is new. The only downside is that it probably will cost more for a brand-new vehicle. This is an option not all businesses can afford during these tough economic times.
On the other hand, a pre-owned vehicle may have already used some of its service life and will require maintenance sooner than a brand new one; however, that is the very fact that makes it affordable. Most pre-owned vehicles are priced just over half the cost of buying one brand new and, if closely monitored, finding one that is barely used is also a possibility. A pre-owned bucket truck is a good option for small businesses that are just beginning operations.
Options to Consider
When it comes to choosing the right brand and the right model for a business, there are plenty of options to choose from that could be suitable. It all depends on what kind of business requires the services of a bucket truck. Is a fleet needed for a cable TV company? Is it a small, start-up construction company? The work requirement of each business is going to be the biggest factor that will determine the particular type to purchase.
How high is the boom required to operate? How much load is required to be lifted? What safety features are required by state or federal statutes and regulations? These are some of the questions that must be considered to determine the necessary specifications of the vehicle since these factors vary depending upon the type of work being performed.
Scheduled maintenance cost is another big factor to consider when buying a used bucket truck. When running a fleet of them, maintenance costs can easily increase proportionately. Some models require more frequent servicing than others, raising the overall maintenance cost. Availability of parts for replacement should also be considered. Those with spare parts that are available locally are less expensive to service and repair since shipping is not a major factor.
Where to Buy?
Finding a quality used bucket truck is simple. Driving around the city or countryside looking at vehicles on sales lot is no longer necessary. The best place to find one is on the internet. Using your search engine, you can look for dealers specializing in used ones online. There are plenty of used dealers online, but make sure to deal only with stable dealers with an established reputation and many years of experience. Visit online forums and get recommendations regarding the best known dealers.
If the above advice is followed, the purchase of a used bucket truck doesn’t have to be a nightmarish experience to dread and avoid. Knowledge is certainly power in this instance as the educated buyer will be the wise buyer, knowing the information necessary to make the correct decision!
Christopher M. Hunter is an expert in commercial specialty trucks. Click here to find out more about Used Bucket Trucks.
