The demand for vacuum trucks has been increasing in the past few years. Manufacturers can hardly meet the demand, especially for customized trucks. Sometimes buyers have to wait for up to six months to get their preferred truck model. Hence, used vacuum trucks have become a popular option. You can purchase a new and customized truck or go for a pre-owned truck depending on your needs. Here are some tips to help you buy the right truck.
1. Consider Your Needs and Budget
Vacuum trucks are used for various functions including cleaning sewer pipelines, hydro excavation, and septic cleaning. Consider the type of waste that you intend to carry with the vacuum tanks and specs like the vacuum truck. For instance, stainless steel tanks are necessary to transport harsh and corrosive chemicals. Some tanks are designed to carry liquids while others carry solids only. Choosing the right vacuum truck pump size is also essential. Choose the model that will suit your operations the best. Compare different models from different suppliers to get one that suits your budget and your needs.
2. Ask for Maintenance Records
If you are buying a pre-owned truck, ask the seller for the maintenance records. The seller should have the maintenance records from the day the truck was purchased. Check if the regular maintenance practices appear in the logs and identify any major changes. For instance, a new engine may imply that the truck may have been involved in a major accident. Do not buy a second-hand truck without updated maintenance records.
3. Get a Good Warranty
Some manufacturers give a good warranty for the vacuum trucks including customized trucks. Others give separate warranties for the vacuum module and the chassis. If you buy the two parts from different suppliers, you may get a warranty for only one part. The warranty periods will be different depending on the supplier or manufacturer’s policies. It is advisable to buy a vacuum from a manufacturer like Satellite TruckXpress to get a good warranty on the whole truck. Ensure that the warranty covers your location before proceeding with the purchase.
4. Inspect the Truck
Buying vacuum trucks online has become popular. You can compare different models and prices when buying online. However, you need to inspect all the parts thoroughly before finalizing the purchase. Some manufacturers rush the assembly process because of the increasing demand. A thorough inspection is necessary especially when buying a pre-owned truck. Do a road test as well to ensure that all parts are functional.
5. Get the Right Documentation
Ensure that the seller provides a clear release of liens, title, and inspection documents. If the seller cannot provide any of these legal documents, chances are that the truck was not legally acquired. Do not accept promises to provide the documents after the sale. View the documents and determine their authenticity before signing the sale contract. Check the sale contract as well and ensure that seller signs all the required fields.
The right vacuum truck should meet your needs and serve your business for a long period. The best approach when searching for a vacuum truck is to start your search early. You cannot inspect the truck and its documentation when buying in a rush. Take time to compare different models in the market and their prices. The tips outlined above will help you narrow down your options to one truck.