What is the most reliable truck

I am rather fond of the Tonka brand trucks...it's the only brand I could never wear out or tear up.

 

Well said. Many people think that just because they are incapable of successfully running their own business that no one can, even people they know nothing about. Some people just have the knack for running a business, most are best suited to being an employee. There's nothing wrong with either one, it's just important to recognize which one you are and focus on that strength. Regarding your question, I doubt that you will receive any useful information as opinions will vary and contradict one another. An example, heavyhaulerss says go with a detroit but, around here, a used truck with a detroit is hard to sell and will typically fetch 20% less than a similar truck with a cat or cummins. Almost all of the local trucking companies prefer cat as their first choice but will consider a cummins if it's rigged right and the price is right. Most won't buy a detroit regardless. OTOH a rather large local outfit that runs 50 some trucks runs all detroits and loves them. Like everyone, I have my truck/power-train preferences but they are just that, preferences. Doesn't make them the best, just the best FOR ME. Good luck in your new endeavour, I'm sure you'll do well.

 

Oh boy, Loc every time you OPEN YOUR MOUTH you sound more and more like a virgin. Look, I care very much about you and don't want you to fail but you, chose to listen to sweet-talkers. Which is a no-no in trucking as its not much different than mining industry - gotta be cautious to survive.

I didn't attempt/failed anything, got my own truck/trailer and use it to bring home some money for last few years. Probably being the on the other of the stick if you are a broker.

First thing to you need to know about buying trucks today is that there are 3 levels of emission controls implemented into the engines in 2002, 2007 and 2010. You want to learn about that if you still serious about buying trucks, because it has HUGE impact on reliability, your downtime, driver satisfaction, and $. No matter how much you dislike me for telling you the truth - you screwed when you buy used truck or new

 

I was not picking on you for being a newbie. I was pointing out the fact that being a newbie stacks the deck against you from the start. My firm belief is someone should have much more experience than you are saying you have before making the kind of commitment you are making. The regulations and problems that plague this industry are not easy to deal with. I also think from what you said you are stArting with one customer which means all your eggs are in one basket. If you want my advice though start with used equipment in the 400,000 to 500,000 range. If things are going well in a tear trade 1 truck for a newer one. I myself own 4 trucks and am here to tell you good luck. Without trying to bee insulting I think you are going to need a bunch of luck.

 

Hey Loc, welcome to the forum and perhaps to the industry.

There is no point in getting upset over the negative comments. In fact, you might want to read them and take them into consideration. It sure doesn't mean you have to put your faith in them, but there isn't any point in getting up tight over what someone else's opinion is.

OK, now to your original post. That is a real tough question to answer, as you are finding out. Everyone has their own opinion. I don't know if you are buy new or used.

If you are buying used, one of the biggest things to look for are complete and proper maintenance records on the truck. No records? No buy.

Of course new OR used, you can wind up with a lemon. Which leads me to the next suggestion. Have you looked into a lease with an outfit such as Ryder? I don't know if it would be beneficial to you or not. Only you will be able to make that decision, after you have looked at it.

Good luck.

 

The best is a freighliner Columbia or century with detroit engine with this you can make a good mpg and a good money,Volvo only with cummins ,only when a piece is to change from the Volvo more troubles not easy to find end more expensive ,less dealership

 

just make sure you have them checked out thoroughly and that they have those maintenance records like was mentioned earlier.......oh and please do your drivers a favor, don't treat them like you are a broker......half the reason why drivers have a bad attitude towards brokers is that they can be very UNREALISTIC