Waste hauling companies should consider selling their garbage trucks when the vehicle is relatively new and still has lots of value to offer. Waiting too long to arrange a sale means you’ll get less money for the vehicle than you would normally. It can also mean that you’re unable to sell the item at all, which leaves you saddled with less-efficient equipment that may require constant repairs.
Understanding the Average Lifespan of Garbage Trucks
As you know, garbage trucks go through quite a bit of wear and tear during their lifespans. In addition to the common maintenance that all vehicles require, this equipment also requires additional work to keep all moving components intact and in great shape.
Accordingly, the amount of maintenance you perform on your truck has a big impact on how long it will last. With the right maintenance, a truck can last a decade or even longer. However, when maintenance is lacking and conditions are severe, you may only get a few years of service out of the vehicle.
What to Consider When Selling a Truck
The key to getting the most out of a used garbage truck is to know the best time to sell it. In this case, you must consider a few essential factors. The cost of repairs is a helpful metric, as it allows you to quantify whether the truck is really serving your best interests. In general, a truck that is requiring more expensive repairs and maintenance as time goes on may be a candidate for re-sale.
How much the truck has been used is another essential factor, possibly more significant than the age of the truck itself. A garbage truck that has been used extensively over the course of your ownership is naturally going to experience a lot more wear. In this case, you may want to sell the truck sooner rather than later, as extensive use is likely to decrease its value.
How to Make the Most Out of Your Equipment Budget
Knowing when to sell your truck ensures you get the most out of it while also receiving the best possible resale value. Proper maintenance is equally important, as being diligent about repairs and other services will prevent premature wear. You must schedule annual maintenance, as well as perform oil changes, tire rotation, and other services as needed.
Waste companies can also consider garbage truck rental instead of buying vehicles outright. Renting the vehicles your business needs greatly reduces the costs associated with purchasing vehicles. Your maintenance obligations will also be greatly reduced when you rent from Big Truck Rental, as we keep our trucks in great shape and take care of any repairs or maintenance beyond routine daily upkeep.
Seeking affordable and efficient garbage trucks to add to your fleet? Big Truck Rental can help. Our skilled and knowledgeable team can help you find the perfect short- or long-term rental agreement to precisely suit your needs. We even offer rent-to-own options, which allow you to secure equipment while maintaining your budget. Call today to speak with a team member or contact us for more information.