Box Truck Reliability? Purchasing a box truck as a first-time driver?

Discussion in 'Ask An Owner Operator' started by DigitalNomad, Oct 14, 2021.

  1. DigitalNomad

    DigitalNomad Bobtail Member

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    Oct 14, 2021
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    Hi all,

    I've driven many box trucks over the years as rentals from the baby 10' all the way up to the 26'.

    I'm interested in doing OTR trucking with a brother who is also interested, but before we buy a first truck, I was wondering if there's any kind of reliability data (or your own experiences?) that can be shared?

    I'm looking for a 26' truck to drive interstate within the US.

    Any pointers regarding the following would be really appreciated:

    • Best websites/dealers that you had good experiences with?
    • Any particular makes and models (as well as engine/transmission types) of trucks to consider (or avoid!)
    • Anything else to look out for as a new owner operator?
    Thank you for any advice you can lend!
     
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  3. lovesthedrive

    lovesthedrive R.I.P.

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    Sorrento Maine
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    Any commercial vehicle you want to buy should be able to have the vin searchable on Google. If you cant search it, be very leery. As in why didnt they want to have it serviced at a shop. Granted they may have done it themselves. Just my 2 pennies
     
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  4. DigitalNomad

    DigitalNomad Bobtail Member

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    Oct 14, 2021
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    Thank you Willy.

    I agree that a VIN shouldn't be something that is hidden, nor service records.

    Do you have any straight truck models that you have heard good (or bad) things about?
     
  5. lovesthedrive

    lovesthedrive R.I.P.

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    Sorrento Maine
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    I am a freightliner lover, so I am biased in that respect. The controls of the dash suit me easier.
    Yet that is something you need to discover. What ever your choice is. Sit in the truck. Adjust the seat to where you want to be. Close your eyes and find the controls. How hard is it to find the radio? Or the jakes? Or the climate controls? These are things your going to do with out thinking when driving. Was it a reach to get at?

    It needs to be comfortable. If it isnt comfortable when it is stationary, it will be worse after 10 hours bouncing down what ever road.
     
  6. Ridgeline

    Ridgeline Road Train Member

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    Michigan
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    Ok,

    first I assume you have a cdl, because if you don’t … don’t bother with this idea.

    second go to expeditersonline.com to get better answers.

    third look at trucks like these

    https://www.truckpaper.com/listings...anufacturer/freightliner/model-group/cascadia

    https://www.truckpaper.com/listings...cks-hot-shot-trucks/manufacturer/western-star

    https://www.truckpaper.com/listings...tor-trucks-hot-shot-trucks/manufacturer/volvo

    don’t go to a class 7 truck like a m2 and don’t ever get an international.
     
  7. TA1199

    TA1199 Light Load Member

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    Sep 12, 2015
    Staten Island, NY
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    Class 7 is a crapshoot. Good to start off with, but not very comfortable for a team. Class 8 is the way to go, but expensive. Your best bet is to sign on with an Owner and drive for 6 months to a year. See if you are cut out for the lifestyle and if you are then buy your own truck.
     
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