Used cargo trailers and trucks for sale: Buying Guide (Part 2)

  While there are some basic steps to follow when looking for a used truck or trailer, there are also plenty more factors and policies to consider e.g. the wear and tear policy. From an operational perspective, the vehicle’s past and current status, as well as the future maintenance and upgrades must been taken into consideration. A handful of components to check during the mechanical inspection of the vehicle are mentioned below.

1. Assess the assets’ past condition

  Before getting into the details of the vehicle’s present condition, it's crucial to gain a sense of the truck' s or trailer’s history. Examine how long it's been in service and for what it was used, inquire the maintenance and oil change records, as well as its service history and any recent modifications. Clarifying these details early on can help you save time and money in the long run.

  By learning why it has been sold, you may also establish whether there are any present or potential mechanical faults you'll be accountable for. In general, there is no industry-wide service history standard. However, well maintained trailers should have some record that the dealer or previous owner can provide.

2. Check the structural components

  Properly examining the unit from a mechanical standpoint is quite advisable. The truck's mileage can be a strong predictor of the vehicle's suitability when combined with other criteria such as your personal future use. If you want to drive long miles, for example, a vehicle with lesser mileage makes more sense, even if a well-maintained truck or trailer with high mileage might be a good option, too. In any case, you should pay attention to the following components:

• Tires

  Each vehicle’s tires can indicate a lot about its condition. Always inspect your tires for ample tread, embedded objects, and bulges or other abnormalities on the sidewalls. Check for cracks and evaluate the traction of the tires. Uneven tire wear is frequently not a problem, but rather an indication of a larger issue with the axle, wheels, rims, or even the tires themselves. Common mechanical problems associated with uneven or premature tire wear include misalignment of an axle, poorly maintained or broken suspension components, or bad shocks. Don’t forget to request the number of kilometers on the existing tires and when they should be replaced so you know what the future demands will be.

• Wheel ends (oil/grease, properly lubed)

  Examine the present oil situation by looking at the current oil levels, as well as the oil's condition. The state of the engine and transmission oil can both be indicators of the truck's overall health and condition. Don’t hesitate to request for oil change records if you have any suspicions.

• Brakes and suspension (lining, pads, ABS)

  Trailer brakes are necessary for securing a trailer to a vehicle. Confirm that the discs, drums and linings do not present unusual wear and tear, that the ABS system is operational and that the cables and hoses are not frayed or damaged. Also, pay close attention to the suspension and its main parts like airbags, kettles and valves.

• Flooring

  It's essential to know what kind of floor the truck or trailer has and check its condition accordingly. For instance, you should check for rotting if it has hardwood or laminated plywood floors, for damages if it has a resin floor and for wear in case of an aluminum one. Looking on the underside for corrosion is highly recommended, too. Have in mind that, even if surface rust is usually easy to deal with proper care and maintenance, structural rust can lead to a trailer's service life being cut short. Finally, if you're opting for a van or a reefer, double-check the top structure. Get inside in the daylight with a partner or salesperson and examine the door seals, ceiling, floor, and sides for any light coming in. This is particularly significant in the case of a reefer since it causes energy depletion.

• Trailer electrical system (lights)

  Lights are a crucial component to inspect. Interior lights, brake lights, and both blinkers must all be tested for the safety of the drivers and the items that will be transported. Check for fraying or other signs of wear and tear on all electrical connections and cables.

  Altogether, it's always a good idea to call in a qualified technician if you don't feel comfortable evaluating the mechanics of the vehicle on your own. As an expert, he/she will be able to point out items you may have ignored. A mechanic can, also, offer valuable recommendations about the truck's specifications that perfectly fit your demands.

 TIP Used

  TIP Used, part of the leading equipment service provider TIP, is one of the largest suppliers for premium quality second-hand trucks and trailers in the commercial vehicle sector. Headquartered in Amsterdam, TIP operates in 120 locations around Europe and offers a comprehensive range of used vehicles from its own and third-party fleets via TIP Used. With more than 50 years of experience, TIP Used is one of the most trusted and respected names in the industry of used equipment, offering a variety of brands like Krone, Schmitz, SDC, Volvo, MAN and DAF. Accurate details and specifications of all the equipment can be provided through tip-used.com while the regional sales managers can be reached for additional information and support.

  Visit tip-used.com to learn more about the available used trucks and trailers or contact directly one of our sales managers to discuss your specific requirements and budget. Don’t forget to follow us on our social media so as not to miss out any special deals and new arrivals!