What’s The Best Used Commercial Truck for Your Business

From large to small business owners, the safety, comfort, and dependability of a company’s fleet is crucial in maintaining optimal efficiency and customer satisfaction when delivering products. Fleet managers are responsible for choosing the correct types of commercial vehicles to handle the various demands of their daily operations.

For instance, businesses may rely on box trucks or sprinter vans for local deliveries, or may require sleepers or day cab for longer, more detailed routes. If a fleet manager fails to choose the right commercial vehicle classes for their drivers, this can hamper productivity and result in costly downtime that can damage brand reputation.

As a business owner, you may feel encouraged to purchase newer vehicles that can maintain reliability both on and off the road. However, providers like Ryder make it easier and more beneficial for logistics professionals, small business owners, or even owner operators in need of commercial vehicles to buy used trucks to minimize overhead.

Used commercial trucks offer dependable quality for drivers and can be a significant, strategic investment for businesses in various industries. However, it is important to thoroughly evaluate several key factors before expanding your fleet or starting a new venture to ensure you’re getting the most substantial cost savings when purchasing used commercial vehicles.

In this article we’ll dive into the benefits of buying used vs. new commercial trucks, such as exploring the various commercial vehicle classes available and what to look for when purchasing used trucks, to help you determine the best decision for your business.

What Commercial Vehicle Class Should You Buy?

As the transportation industry evolves to keep up with new regulations and breakthroughs in technology, fleet managers must adapt by staying informed of any changes. Since there are many types of commercial vehicles, it’s important for these logistics experts to know the exact specifications of their trucks to seamlessly accommodate their various freight volumes. Thankfully, trucks are classified by Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) to make things easier.

GVWR is a set weight given to all types of commercial vehicles that cannot be exceeded. This is to prevent overloading which can damage a rig’s tires, brakes, and more, ultimately putting drivers at risk of dangerous accidents. The Gross Vehicle Weight Rating includes the weight of the vehicle itself, as well as the cargo, passengers, and accessories. It does not, however, include the weight of any trailer attached; this is known as the Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR).

There are eight commercial vehicle classes separated into three groups that adhere to individual GVWR numbers:

• Light-duty (Classes 1-3): These commercial vehicles are perfect for local deliveries and include pickup trucks and cargo vans.
• Medium-duty (Classes 4-6): From box trucks to reefers, these rugged commercial vehicles are ideal for regional freight, such as out-of-state moving services.
• Heavy-duty (Classes 7-8): Suitable for long-haul logistics and construction, these commercial vehicles include tractors and dump trucks.

What is the Best Used Commercial Truck for My Business?

Commercial trucks are commonly used for freight deliveries, but they can be repurposed across a wide range of industries. Not only do these vehicles simplify hauling with spacious capacity, but many come equipped with features like E-Track, side doors, walk ramps, liftgates, and built-in shelving for efficient organization and quick loading/unloading.

Because of this versatility, many companies compare used vs. new commercial truck options to build or expand their fleet in a cost-effective way. Some of the most common industries that benefit from purchasing used trucks (as well as other commercial vehicles) include:

• Moving companies – Movers utilize box trucks to safely transport their customers' home furnishings with ease.
• Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) – Technicians often drive sprinter vans to keep tools, parts, and systems organized on service calls.
• Construction – Heavy-duty vehicles such as flatbeds or stake trucks are used to transport lumber, concrete, and equipment to job sites.
• Warehousing and distribution – Semi-trucks and tandem-axle yard tractors help move product to and from distribution centers and across warehouse campuses.
• Florists – Refrigerated vans or box trucks help preserve floral arrangements and deliver them on time for events, retail displays, and customer orders.
• Owner-operators – Independent drivers often choose used semi-trucks to haul freight regionally or cross-country with lower upfront investment.
• Food & beverage – Restaurants, distributors, and catering companies use refrigerated trucks to keep food and drinks fresh during transport.
• Retailers – Delivery vans or box trucks support store-to-store transfers and final-mile home deliveries for furniture, appliances, and general merchandise.
• Automotive parts suppliers – Sprinter vans or box trucks are often used to deliver parts quickly to repair shops or retail outlets.
• Landscaping and lawn care – Open-bed trucks, utility trailers, or box trucks transport tools, mulch, plants, and machinery to customer sites.
• Event and equipment rental services – Box trucks and flatbeds haul tents, AV gear, or construction equipment to event venues and job sites.
• Nonprofits and donation centers – Used trucks are ideal for donation pickups and supply drop-offs.

Benefits of Buying Used vs. New Commercial Trucks

When deciding between used and new commercial trucks, it’s important to weigh the differences in cost, availability, and long-term value. New trucks offer the latest features and come with full manufacturer warranties, but they also come with a higher price tag and may require lead time for production or delivery. For businesses trying to scale quickly or manage budgets carefully—especially startups and growing fleets—used commercial vehicles present a compelling alternative.

Used trucks generally cost less upfront and can be put to work immediately. While they may have one or more previous owners, their maintenance history and performance data are often well documented through auto history reports. New trucks, by contrast, carry the risks and responsibilities of being the first on the road; if not properly maintained, they depreciate rapidly and may have lower resale value once they exceed certain mileage thresholds. Additionally, new commercial vehicles lose a significant portion of their value as soon as they leave the dealership, while used trucks have already absorbed that initial depreciation—making them a smarter investment for many businesses.

If you're looking for specific commercial vehicle classes, buying used gives you faster access to the assets you need. For example, Ryder offers both CDL and non-CDL used commercial vehicles for sale at over 60 used truck centers across the country. And, 95% percent of Ryder Used Vehicles have had just one owner—Ryder—and have been maintained by their expert technicians. Whether you're in the market for used semi-trucks, box trucks, vans, or other vehicle types, you’ll find a wide selection available for immediate purchase—no production delays, no wait times. Used trucks allow businesses to stay agile and avoid disruptions when it’s time to get products moving.

What to Look for When Buying Used Trucks

If you’re ready to buy used trucks for your business, it’s crucial to have a solid list of criteria you must meet (or exceed) when looking for light-, medium-, or heavy-duty commercial vehicle classes. Fleet managers who are unprepared when searching for the best used trucks for business may waste time and money purchasing a vehicle that cannot accommodate their transportation needs. Before you browse the types of used commercial trucks available, make sure you keep these factors in mind:

Vehicle History and Maintenance Records: Obtain a comprehensive vehicle history report to gain insights into its previous ownership, accidents, repairs, and mileage. Thoroughly review maintenance records to assess if the truck has received regular servicing and if any major repairs have been performed. This information helps gauge the truck's overall condition and potential maintenance requirements in the future.

Mechanical Condition and Inspection: A thorough mechanical inspection is vital to determine the current condition of the used commercial truck. Engage a qualified mechanic or technician to assess the engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, electrical systems, and other critical components. A comprehensive inspection helps identify any existing or potential mechanical issues, providing an accurate picture of the truck's reliability and performance.

Usage and Mileage: Consider the truck's usage and mileage to estimate its remaining lifespan and potential repair costs. Excessive wear and tear, high mileage, and demanding applications may indicate a higher risk of mechanical problems. While mileage is important, it should be considered alongside the truck's overall condition, maintenance history, and the nature of its previous applications.

Payload and Towing Capacity: Do you need a cargo van, box truck, semi truck, or a trailer? Evaluate the truck's payload and towing capacity based on your specific business requirements. Determine the maximum weight the truck can safely transport or tow, considering your typical cargo or equipment. Ensure that the truck's capabilities align with your operational needs to avoid overloading or straining the vehicle, which can lead to increased maintenance costs and reduced efficiency.

Fuel Efficiency: Fuel costs are a significant expense for commercial truck operators. Assess the fuel efficiency of the used truck by researching its make, model, and engine specifications. Consider factors such as aerodynamics, engine technology, and emissions standards to determine the truck's potential fuel consumption. Opting for a more fuel-efficient truck can provide long-term savings and minimize environmental impact.

Insurance and Warranty: Contact insurance providers to obtain quotes for the used commercial truck you intend to purchase. Some providers, like Ryder, offer insurance coverage and used vehicle warranties. Insurance costs can vary significantly based on factors such as the truck's make, model, age, and intended use. Additionally, inquire about any existing warranties from the truck manufacturer or extended warranties available for purchase. A warranty can provide peace of mind and financial protection against unforeseen repairs.

FAQ: Buying Used Commercial Trucks

Still deciding if you should buy used trucks for your business? We’ve got you covered. We’ve got answers to some of the most common questions logistics professionals ask when starting their search for used commercial trucks.

• Is it worth buying a used commercial truck? Buying a used commercial truck instead of a new vehicle offers benefits such as a lower purchase price, immediate availability, and slower depreciation to make it worth the investment.
• Can I finance a used commercial vehicle? Yes, Ryder offers flexible financing options to make it easier and more affordable for fleet managers to buy used trucks.
• Are there tax deductions for buying used commercial vehicles? Yes, businesses can often take advantage of tax deductions when purchasing used commercial vehicles. Under Section 179 of the IRS tax code, qualifying used vehicles purchased for business use may be eligible for a deduction of the full purchase price (up to a specified limit) in the year the vehicle is placed in service. Additionally, bonus depreciation may apply to used vehicles that meet certain criteria. Be sure to consult with your tax advisor to understand the specific deductions your business may qualify for.
• What’s the best used commercial truck for delivery businesses? The best used truck for delivery businesses depends on your company’s exact needs. For example, used sprinter vans are ideal for local deliveries, whereas used refrigerated trucks are needed for safely hauling perishable items such as food and beverage products.
• How do I check a truck’s service history? Ryder provides history and truck maintenance records for Certified and Verified used commercial trucks at the time of purchase.

Start or Extend Your Fleet with Used Commercial Trucks

New commercial vehicles may offer peace of mind to drivers and fleet managers, but used commercial trucks from trusted sellers provide the same level of quality upon purchase. At Ryder, our team of nearly 5,000 expert technicians across over 800 maintenance shops nationwide make necessary repairs to their fleet of used trucks, from preventive and full-service repairs to on-demand services. That being said, you can potentially save thousands on the best used trucks for business without sacrificing performance and safety.

Want to learn more? Browse our used commercial truck inventory, see our latest promotions, or contact a Ryder representative today.