Buying a used semi-truck can allow you to work for yourself, hauling heavy loads as an independent driver, or it can mean handling deliveries for your own company. Because of the loads they pull and the added demand on them, buying a semi-truck is not like buying a standard pickup truck you use at home. Note the most important factors to consider when buying a used semi so you know you choose the best one for yourself or your company.

1. Look at the brake pads

The brake pads of a semi-truck will undergo more wear and tear because of the weight they need to stop with each application. Many online sites have pictures of standard brake pads that are found in most semi-trucks which you can compare with the pads of a truck for sale in order to note how much life is remaining in them. Since replacing the brake pads is a very expensive job for a semi-truck, this can tell you if it's a good investment and if the truck itself has been properly maintained or if the brakes have been neglected over time.

2. Check the maintenance logs

Anyone that owns a semi-truck should have maintenance logs that note each and every bit of service that was done to the truck, including standard oil changes. Many mechanics will note the date of an oil change on the air filter of a semi-truck, so see if this has been done and if the dates match up. The maintenance log can tell you if the truck has been cared for as it should and if there have been major repairs needed.

3. Note the horsepower and capacity

You don't want to overspend for a truck that is larger and heavier than what you'll need; this will depend on the type of loads you'll usually haul, including their weight and size. If you need a refrigerated trailer, this will weigh more than a standard cargo hauler, and if you're going to be hauling car engines these will probably weigh more than computer parts. Your standard loads will depend on the manufacturing facilities in your area for which you'll be driving, or the parts you produce in your own facility.

Don't assume the largest and strongest semi is the best choice, as this will mean more fuel costs and more wear and tear on the engine. You'll want to balance your need for strength and capacity of a truck with the standard load you'll be hauling so you choose the best size for yourself or your company

For more information, check out companies such as.Volvo Trucks.

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