Are you looking to expand your fleet but unsure whether to go for a new or used truck? It’s a key decision to make. A brand-new vehicle certainly sounds appealing – no surprises, the latest technology, and full warranty. But is it also the smartest choice for your business? In this blog, we’ll outline the pros and cons so you can make the right decision for your situation.
Price often plays a big role in choosing a second-hand truck, and that’s no surprise. You pay less than for a new model, yet still get a reliable vehicle. Plus, the supply of used trucks is huge, giving you a wide selection of brands, models, specifications, and price ranges.
Buying a used truck doesn’t automatically mean high risk. It’s important to ask about the maintenance history and whether any repairs have been carried out. If the seller is transparent and provides proper documentation, there’s no reason to worry. It’s also smart to choose a reliable brand. Makes like Mercedes-Benz, Scania, DAF, and Volvo are known for their dependability and are often easy to maintain. Generally, an older used model has already proven its reliability through a high mileage.
If your preferences and budget allow, going for a new truck can offer clear benefits. One major advantage is the manufacturer’s warranty, often with extensive coverage on the engine, drivetrain, and components.
Since it’s a brand-new model, you can expect lower maintenance costs. New trucks come equipped with the latest technology, including safety and emission systems, advanced driver assistance, and connected fleet solutions. These features are good for your fuel costs and give you easier access to low-emission zones. You also know exactly what you’re getting – with no history of repairs or damage, everything is in top condition.
Another big plus is that you can configure the vehicle exactly the way you want. From cabin layout to colour scheme, your new truck can fully match your business needs and brand image.
Of course, the purchase price of a new truck is significantly higher. It’s a serious investment. In addition, the vehicle depreciates quickly – a cost that may not be immediately visible but is certainly relevant.
Lead times can also be long for new trucks, especially if customisation is required. Plus, insurance premiums are usually higher due to the vehicle’s new value.
In either case, it’s important to know what kind of chassis the truck has and whether it’s in good condition. This impacts the possible applications of the vehicle and affects axle load distribution and driving comfort.
A new truck typically comes with a 1 to 3-year manufacturer warranty, sometimes extendable to 5 years or mileage-based. This warranty usually covers nearly all mechanical and electronic parts, reducing the risk of unexpected costs. Breakdown assistance or mobility service is often included. You can also opt for a maintenance contract to keep costs predictable.
A used truck, on the other hand, may come with limited or no warranty. However, this isn’t always the case. When you buy from a trusted supplier like BAS World, a warranty is often included. The older or more intensively used the truck is, the less warranty you’ll receive or can add on. At BAS World, you’ll also have access to a technical inspection report and service history. Still, more attention is required for wear parts like brakes, tyres, or suspension.
Depreciation makes a big difference and has a direct impact on resale value.
For a new truck, the depreciation is especially steep in the first few years – up to 20–30% in the first year alone.
Example: A new truck costing €120,000 could be worth only €70,000 to €80,000 after three years, depending on mileage, brand, configuration, and condition.
In contrast, most depreciation on a used truck has already been absorbed by the previous owner. As a result, the vehicle loses less value over time.
Example: You buy a 5-year-old truck for €50,000 and may still sell it for around €40,000 two years later – a relatively small decrease in value.
Availability also plays a major role when you’re planning to expand. In the transport industry, a truck that’s not moving is lost revenue.
Custom-built trucks take time. A new vehicle is usually built to order, and depending on brand, model, and options, delivery times can take months. If you need a truck quickly due to business growth or a new job, a new model may not be the best option.
In contrast, used trucks are often ready to go. They’ve already been inspected and can be picked up or delivered within days. That means they’re ready to hit the road straight away. At BAS World, we offer a large international stock, so you can quickly find a vehicle that suits your requirements.
There are several tax differences between new and used trucks.
With a new truck, you can depreciate the full purchase amount (excluding VAT) over multiple years. This results in a higher depreciation, especially in the early years. You’ll also pay VAT on the full price, which can be reclaimed if you’re VAT-registered.
For a used truck, depreciation is lower due to the lower purchase price. VAT is only deductible if the vehicle is sold by a VAT-registered supplier. So make sure to check whether the price includes VAT or is margin-based.
Both new and used trucks may be eligible for the small-scale investment deduction (KIA), provided you meet the requirements of the Dutch Tax Authority.
If you need extra transport capacity temporarily – for a big project or peak season – a used vehicle is often ideal. It’s cheaper, available right away, and perfect for short-term use.
It’s also a smart option if you’re working with a limited budget or just starting your business.
Used trucks are also suitable if you only drive regionally, for example for local deliveries or as a backup vehicle. In that case, it wouldn’t make sense to invest heavily in a new truck.
And if one of your trucks breaks down and you urgently need a replacement, a used truck can be the perfect solution. They’re often immediately available, helping you avoid downtime and lost revenue.
Whether you go for a brand-new truck or a reliable used model, the key is choosing what works best for your business. At BAS World, you’ll find both – ready for delivery, transparently priced, and backed by personal advice and expertise.\ Explore our full range and find the right match for your company!
