Buying your first or tenth truck shouldn't be a chore. Wisconsin truck sales provide a steady stream of good condition vehicles to the trucking market. Many are used fleet vehicles, meaning they've been maintained and kept in perfect repair. This greatly improves their resale value.
Wisconsin semi trucks meet the state and federal guidelines for highway use. State and federal laws are strict in regards to safety for both truckers and the public. Knowing the standards before shopping can mean the difference between getting a bargain and buying a truck you have to repair or rebuild to get on the road.
Know what kind of truck is needed before shopping. For only short hauls, no sleeper cab is needed. This means lighter truck weight and greater fuel mileage. For long hauls, a sleeper cab is necessary. Determine if the truck will be pulling single, double or triple trailers. This also helps determine what truck is needed. Keep in mind the more amenities desired, the heavier the truck will be and the fuel efficiency will be less. Custom chrome details may look individualistic, but adds weight to the truck, reducing mileage and costing profits.
Determine the budget before looking for a used truck. Speak to the dealer honestly about what you can afford for yourself or your business. This will help the sales staff to show you vehicles in your range, allowing your search to go quicker and get you on the road faster. Ask questions about the history of the truck, and ask to see the service records. Be wary if the records are "lost."
Visually inspect the vehicle. Cracked or leaking hoses are a sign of ongoing trouble. Leaks under the engine, or a used engine that's been cleaned with gunk along the gaskets are a sign to pass. Doors or compartments that have to be "jimmied" to open or close could signal the truck was in a wreck. Look for welds along the frame- it's illegal to put these trucks on the road. Research the VIN number independently to find out if the truck had an insurance claim against it for damage.
Take the truck to an independent garage for a complete inspection. Have the compression checked, transmission, hydraulics, and so forth inspected thoroughly and pay attention to the mechanic's recommendation. If you're an independent trucker, this is your livelihood; it behooves you to buy the truck that's going to work and not break down while you have a load. Test the brakes on the way to the garage and the way back. Test the jake brake to ensure it will do its job. Coming down the slope of a mountain with a load is no place to find out.
Know what the warranty and the insurance covers, what circumstances the items will/will not be covered and why. If the insurance company will not cover outstanding items with a rider, make part of the business plan include a savings for replacement costs of these items. It can mean the difference between going out of business or getting back on the road.