Commercial trucks are a significant investment, and it is essential to know their value before buying or selling them. Several factors can affect a commercial truck’s value, including its model, age, condition, and mileage—generally, a new semi-truck costs between $70,000 and $150,000. However, prices can exceed $160,000 for a truck with all the upgrades.
Regarding used trucks, the price will depend on their age and condition. A used truck that is only a few years old and in good condition can fetch a price tag of $50,000 or more. However, an older truck that needs work may only be worth around $30,000. Ultimately, the value of a commercial truck is determined by the buyer and seller. Therefore, it is essential to research before buying or selling a truck to ensure you get the best deal possible.
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What Is Considered High Mileage for a Commercial Truck?
The term “high mileage” can mean different things to different people in the context of commercial trucks. For some truckers, high mileage is anything over 100,000 miles, while others consider it 200,000 miles or more.
However, a truck’s mileage is just one factor affecting its longevity. Other factors include the truck’s make and model, how well it has been maintained, and the types of roads it has driven on. Proper care and maintenance can ensure that a commercial truck lasts for hundreds of thousands of miles. Therefore, it’s up to the individual trucker to determine the high mileage for a commercial truck.
How Long Do Semi-truck Engines Last?
Most trucking companies look for engines with a B10 life, meaning that 90% will make it to at least 1 million miles. While the other 10% may not make it that far, 1 million miles is still a realistic goal for an engine. Several factors determine how long an engine lasts, including its design, quality, and maintenance.
However, driving habits play a significant role in an engine’s lifespan. Drivers who drive fast and hard put a lot of wear and tear on their engines, reducing their lifespan. In contrast, drivers who drive more carefully can extend their engine’s lifespan. Therefore, finding a happy medium between driving too hard and babying the engine is critical to longevity.
Regular maintenance is also critical for an engine’s longevity. This includes changing the oil regularly, getting tune-ups when needed, and keeping an eye on coolant levels and tire pressure. These small measures can significantly affect an engine’s lifespan.
How Much Can You Make Owning a Semi-truck?
Owning a semi-truck involves many considerations if you want to turn a profit:
- You need to calculate the cost of ownership, including the truck’s price, fuel, maintenance, and repairs.
- You must factor in your operating expenses, such as insurance, licenses, and permits.
- It would help to consider your overhead costs, such as dispatching and accounting fees.
Once you have considered these costs, you can start thinking about how much money you can make.
Based on average market rates and expense values, an owner-operator can earn around $2000-$5000+ weekly. At the same time, an investor can profit from $500-$2000+ per truck weekly.
However, it is essential to remember that these are just estimates, and several factors can affect profitability. For example, earnings will be lower if fuel prices rise or maintenance costs increase. Similarly, higher-paying loads or reduced operating costs can increase revenues. Ultimately, the amount of money you can make owning a semi-truck depends on various factors, and it is essential to research before making any decisions.
Is it Worth Buying a Truck with 200K Miles?
When purchasing a used car, it’s crucial to research thoroughly before deciding. Make, and model is essential, but so is mileage. Generally, we advise against buying a truck with 200k miles as it may have experienced significant wear and tear. The cost of maintenance and upkeep might not be worth the purchase. However, if you find a truck that meets your budget and needs, it’s worth considering.
Which Semi Truck Engine Lasts the Longest?
Trucks are essential for hauling heavy loads over long distances and undergo significant wear and tear. Therefore, engine durability is crucial. The Detroit 60 Series and DD15 are known for their longevity, and the Mack EM7-300. Heavy-duty trucks often use the 350 Cummins engine for its ability to handle the weight, and the Big Cam Cummins is known for its longevity. The Caterpillar 1693, C15, and C16 engines are also reliable and commonly used in construction trucks.
Conclusion
To ensure a long lifespan, commercial trucks must be well-maintained. Several engines are available in the market, each with pros and cons. Before purchasing, it’s crucial to conduct thorough research to make an informed decision. Ultimately, choosing the right truck depends on individual preferences and needs.
