used truck buying guide.

Unless you have very deep pockets or take out a large loan buying a truck for most people usually means buying a used truck. This can save hundreds or even thousands of pounds and is probably the easiest option if you are just starting out in the haulage business.

Before you decide to buy your second hand truck take some time to think about what type of truck would suite you best. What use are you going to put the truck to? Think about the size of the truck you might need, too small and you might have to change very early on, too big and it will cost more to run and also may require a change of licence in order to operate it within the law. Does the truck you’re looking at have enough horse power for your needs? Sit down with a pen and paper and work out exactly what you need this will save you a lot of time and could potentially save you a lot of money.

If your mechanical knowledge is a little rusty or you have no experience of buying a used truck, try to take along someone who knows what to look for. Also think of your own safety, if possible try not to pay with cash , carrying a large amount of cash can be very risky. So, if you do pay with cash, make sure you meet the seller in a safe place either at their place of work or a mutually agreed meeting place.

Always make sure the seller has the correct documentation for the vehicle being sold. Check the V5 to make sure it is not a forgery. All genuine V5 are water marked, hold the V5 up to a light can you see the water mark? if not then walk away.

Check the V5 to see if it has any spelling mistakes or alterations. If there are any alterations on this document then it is a forgery, the DVLA do not issue documents that have mistakes or corrections.

Have a look at the trucks windows are there any security markings? If there are, do they correspond to the vehicles documentation? Sometimes thieves will put stickers over these markings, don’t be scared to ask to peel these of, if you think they might be trying to conceal the security markings.

Have a look at The Vehicle identification number or VIN plate is it still riveted in place? Are the any marks or scratches around the rivets? Look at the engine number are there any file marks around this? Does it look like it as only recently been stamped on? Does the engine number tally with the documentation?

Take the truck for a long test drive, listen for any unusual noises, test the brakes and the suspension. If you are not sure ask for an independent test, this may cost a bit more money but it could save you from buying a lump of useless metal.

Also don’t forget to check if the truck has any remaining MOT and road tax.

Make sure you get a HPI check and a Truck Insurance quote on the vehicle.

Good luck when buying your used trucks.