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Where to start looking
Page 68
Page 69
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THE CHANNELS FOR picking up a second-hand commercial vehicle are pretty straightforward. Manufacturer-owned franchises tend to offer recent, good-condition trucks with a service history.These dealers normally offer low-rate finance packages, deals on specific vehicles sold in mass volumes first time around, and decent, insurance-backed warranties.
These deals will be more expensive than those from independent sites, but arguably bring greater peace of mind. And extras such as 24/7 aftersales and servicing could have an influence on your decision. However, as these sites tend to offer mainly bread-and-butter stuff, those looking for something unusual should look further afield, too.
Widening the search
Independently owned used dealerships are more likely to search for unusual stock, as long as you're willing to pay.
They also offer finance deals and servicing, and you are unlikely to pay as much as a main dealer would charge for an identical vehicle.Tbere's a greater chance that these dealers have desirable owner-driver products, as well as more traditional items.
Independent dealers are competitive, and will go that extra mile to get your custom, but you will need to know something about the second-hand market to avoid picking up a dud. If the deal seems too good Lobe true, then the chances are it is.
Repeat custom
The independent dealers know the industry inside out and take a pride in having repeat custom, offering bespoke engineering and sourcing trucks seemingly from nowhere.Their forecourts tend to stock tractors with big cabs and engines, plus construction vehicles, and many dealers will specialise further down the weights But expect a three-month breakdown warranty at best.
Under the hammer Auction houses have long since shed their reputation for punting gear franchised dealers won't touch. Many cite finance houses, rental and lease companies and, indirectly, manufacturers as their customer base, as well as small fleet operators. Saturday auctions — usually generated by hauliers calling it a day — throw up some quality stock in 'must go today' sales. Exporters play a bigger part, with just about anything available from de-fleeted vehicles— old municipal stock and snatch-backs, as well as a solid mix of late-year stock and older less desirable products. Some auctions include eB ay-style 'online bidding', which seems to have worked, as well as introducing pricing formats for those who register.
If you want to find out what sort of price you should be paying, then check out CAP and Glass's Guide; the figures aren't set in stone, but they will provide a decent starting point.