For first-time truck buyers, or if you aren’t a mechanically inclined individual, the best option when buying a dump truck is to buy new. This is an additional protection for the buyer, as the cost of repairing hydraulics, replacing brakes and working on a poorly maintained engine can end up adding considerably to the price over your first couple of years after buying the wrong used truck.
In Texas, if you are purchasing from a reputable dealer, you have a lot of protection as a buyer. First, a reputable dealer will work with you to find the right dump truck for your needs. They want their customers to be happy, to continue to do business with them, and to recommend the dealership to their friends.
Secondly, with buying from a dealership, there are more financing options to consider. In some cases, you may even find that a short or longer term lease from a dealership may be the most cost effective option for you, particularly if the work with the truck is seasonal. With the year round ever-changing weather throughout most of Texas, this will give you a good idea of the truck’s handling ability in all seasons.
Size
As with any type of work truck, a dump truck can have a smaller or large box and overall capacity. The capacity of the box is important, as this will either limit or expand the weight of the loads you can transport and dump.
Remember, the dumping action is based on hydraulics, which are rated to a specific maximum capacity. It is typically recommended to go up in size to increase your potential loads if you are in a period of growth or are expanding your services.
Features in the Cab
While working capacity is a critical factor for jobs, the comfort of the cab and the features offered that enhance safety are critical for the driver. Take the time to get into the cab and compare where gauges, buttons and panels are located, and see which option is best suited to you.
The different styles of cabs from the standard cab to the cab-forward design will also have different features and options. With both cabs, look for the use of technology in a way that makes driver safety and ease of operation a priority.
Also, check how easy it is to see along the truck, the road ahead, as well as to the sides of the vehicle. In any big city in Texas, this is going to be an important factor, but it will also be a concern for rural areas as well, particularly when backing into construction sites or dump locations.
