Your Checklist for Buying a Dump Truck
Owning your own commercial dump truck can provide a lucrative source of income. Likewise, many types of construction jobs necessitate the use of a dump truck, so if your company requires one, or it’s part of your side hustle, it is crucial that you buy one that will be up for the job.
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That said, you don’t want to spend money on any investment that you can’t be sure will pan out in the end. To help you decide, here are a few factors you should consider before buying.
Ensuring Your ROI
The most critical aspect regarding any large purchase that you can make for your company will be whether you’re turning a profit on your investment. Given that your ROI will depend on your ability to create income with your new vehicle, the most important factors to consider from a financial standpoint regarding whether or not to buy a dump truck will be:
- Whether It Can Accomplish the Jobs You Want
- How Well the Costs of Running Your Dump Truck Compare to Your Earnings
Consider a Pre-owned Dump Truck
Given how much any vehicle will devalue the moment you drive it off the dealership’s lot, buying a used commercial dump truck can be an excellent way to save money. That said, if you don’t know how to assess whether the dump truck that you decide to buy is in good enough condition to be worth the cost, then you could risk losing money on that purchase.
Getting the help of a mechanic to assess the condition of the vehicle will allow you to get a better sense of its worth and chances of longevity for the jobs you require. A good mechanic will help you to assess the condition of
- The Body
- Engine
- Frame Rails
- Axles
in the truck you intend to purchase, so you can know whether it is worth buying. A few of the crucial things that should be on your checklist when you’re in the market for a dump truck include:
Carrying Capacity
In the world of commercial dump truck sales, you won’t get a one-size-fits-all situation. Different sized dump trucks can carry different amounts of material, so you’ll want to purchase one that holds a suitable capacity for the jobs you intend to complete.
If you’re planning to haul an enormous amount of earth from one location, for example, you will probably benefit from a larger truck. The capacity is usually measured in yards or cubic yards, so try to gain a sense of how much room you’ll need before you start shopping.
Type of Dump Box Material
Most dump trucks tend to contain a box made of either aluminum or steel. The advantage of steel is that it is more durable than aluminum so that it will last longer and withstand rougher materials. On the other hand, aluminum is lighter, so that it will enable you to carry more weight without overburdening your engine.
Along with these factors, you will also want to determine whether or not you’ll require additional options like extra storage capacity, tarping or other customizations. Talk to a commercial dump truck dealer about your needs to find out what else is available.