1st time truck buyer

Even though you're a first time buyer, I don't believe you should have to sacrifice your wants and needs. By that I mean, If you already know that you want a certain year truck with a fridge, microwave and an APU (that works) in your truck. Then look for that and see if you can find one within your price range.

When I started looking for a truck I started looking at Cascadias and other Makes and models, and I knew I wanted to go to California to pick up freight. So I already knew I wanted a 2010 truck. I also want to keep my other costs down as well, so I knew I wanted an APU, a fridge and a microwave. If I could find all those things I would have it made. Well needless to say some makes and models were so far out of my financial reach that I thought I better look for older and maybe take settle for less. I'm really glad I didn't because I stumbled on the truck I have now. I had to drive 500+ miles to get it, but I did and I'm quite happy that I did.

I would suggest to NOT settle for less just because. What you're looking for is out there, you just might have step out a little further to get it.

This is ONLY my opinion. Nothing more, nothing less.

Good luck and stay safe.

 

COLUMBIA w/13spd !!!!! Stay away from the autoshifts, I had one and it was no good. Plus in the 1 year that i owned the truck, it had to be rebuilt TWICE, luckily it was still under an Eaton warranty, but the cost would have been well over $20k for the replacement.

Not sure where you are running at, but I would not even be looking at anything 2004 or newer. The emissions cause a lot of engine issues, not to mention poor MPG usually (not always, but usually) And stay away from anything with a DPF (2008-2010)

I am guessing that you HAVE to finance the truck, and of course you can't get a loan on a 1998-2001 truck, but if you could save up $15,000 you would be able to buy a nice one with cash and free up a lot of revenue for your 1st year as an O/O..... you'll need as much $$$ available as you learn what and what-not to do.

 

From what I just recently went through, $15K will probably get you a 2008 - (maybe) a 2010 model truck. depends on location, dealer and lending institution obviously.

 

Don't forget buying a trailer

 

That's pretty much what I was saying without saying it. lol. I couldn't even get by with just a $15k down on my rig. I don't know what your budget is, but I know you'll find something. You might have to leave the state to get it, but you'll find it. Don't get discouraged.

 

Pick anything out an put 25% aside for down.


Plus insurance will be about 3.4% for physical damage plus your liability.

Then you will need to pay plates and the registration for whatever state you are in