Tips on Buying and Selling Used Trucks in South Africa
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The commercial truck segment is one of the fastest-growing South African automotive markets. And for a good reason, too. The country’s logistics sector is booming thanks to many local e-commerce retailers, such as Amazon and Takealot. These online businesses have created a new wave of demand for delivery services of heavy materials such as packages and pallets. And with more than 1,000 trucks imported into South Africa in 2017 alone and plenty more expected to be sold this year, it’s an excellent time to invest in this growing market. Read on for some insider knowledge about buying used trucks and selling used trucks in South Africa:
Why buy used commercial trucks in South Africa?
There are plenty of reasons why buying a used commercial truck in South Africa makes sense. For starters, these are highly durable vehicles that retain their value well – so you’re likely to get a lot of use out of a used truck before needing to replace it. In addition, second-hand commercial vehicles are significantly cheaper than buying new ones. It’s essential to research to find a good deal and ensure the truck you’re buying is in good condition.
Check for accident damage.
As with any used vehicle, it’s crucial to check for signs of accident damage. First and foremost, check for a CARFAX report. This is the gold standard for getting information about accidents and will tell you the number of accidents the vehicle has been in, any repair work done, and what happened in the incident(s). As a general rule of thumb, you should avoid buying a used commercial truck that has been in any accidents. Even if the vehicle has been fully repaired, you’re unlikely to ever recoup the total value of the truck down the line. If you can, get a mechanical inspection done on the vehicle. This isn’t a legal requirement, but it can give you a better idea of how well the truck has been maintained and what it’s like to drive.
The legal stuff
Before you go ahead and buy, you should be aware of the legal requirements you’ll need to meet. Firstly, you’ll need to be licensed to drive commercial vehicles in South Africa. You can apply for a commercial driver’s license online through the Road Traffic Management Corporation. You’ll also need to ensure that your vehicle has the correct permits and licensing. There’s a bit of confusion among prospective buyers, but the bottom line is that you can’t just go out and buy any truck and use it for commercial purposes. You’ll need to ensure that the truck you buy has the correct permits for the amount of weight it can transport, the type of vehicle, and the license plate shown on the engine.
How to spot a good used truck
You can do a few things to ensure the used truck you buy is in good condition. First and foremost, you want to ensure the engine is in good shape. Check that it’s clean and well-maintained, with no oil leaks. Listen out for a steady hum, not a rattling sound or any knocks or knocks on the engine. You also want to ensure no signs of corrosion on the engine. Next, take a look at the tires. They should be in good condition and relatively new. Lastly, you’ll want to check the rest of the vehicle for any signs of rust or damage. The interior should be clean and in good condition, and the body should be undamaged.
4 Brands to Look out for When Buying Trucks in South Africa
These are very common brands in the used commercial truck market. This is because the brands are known for building durable and reliable trucks.
– Mercedes-Benz
– Scania
– Isuzu
– Mitsubishi
Two recommendations
If you’re looking to buy a used commercial truck in South Africa, we recommend the following brands:
– Mercedes-Benz – The Mercedes Actros is an excellent choice of a used commercial truck in South Africa.
– Isuzu – The Isuzu FTR is a great choice of used commercial truck in South Africa.
And if you’re looking to sell your used commercial truck, we recommend going through a used commercial truck dealer. This will help you get a fair price for your vehicle and take a lot of the hassle out of the process.
Conclusion
Buying a used commercial truck in South Africa is a great way to enter the industry. These durable vehicles retain their value well, making them a wise investment. However, it’s essential to research and ensure the truck you’re buying is in good condition. And, if you’re selling your used commercial truck, you’ll want to ensure you get a fair price.
