Tips to Speed Up a Commercial Vehicle Sale
When it’s time to sell your work truck or van, you want a fair price and you also want it in your pocket as soon as possible. While there are no guarantees, there are several things you can do to potentially speed up the process toward the sale, no matter what type of vehicle it is. We have some tips that could get you on your way.
Browse new and used upfitted trucks for sale online.
Gather All Your Paperwork and Get It Ready
Along with the title, include anything related to the vehicle, including its original purchase invoice, any warranty information, and owner’s manual. Collect all of the maintenance records, repair invoices, and service logs, since buyers will be more inclined to purchase a vehicle that’s been looked after properly. Mention in your advertisement that you have all the records, which can give you an edge over similar vehicles without them.
Consider Any Repairs That Need to Be Done
Mention if you’ve done any recent repairs or maintenance; buyers are more likely to go for a truck that has new brakes or tires, for example. If something does need replacement, doing it before you sell can make it more attractive to buyers who won’t have to do it themselves, and you can ask more for this ready-to-go vehicle to cover your costs.
Determine the Best Time to Sell
The type of commercial vehicle you’re selling will have a primary demand cycle, such as agricultural equipment in advance of the preparation and growing season, or snow plows well before the first flakes start to fall. Research your market to see when people are most likely to buy, but always consider other factors that can affect interest.
For example, the snow plow you might plan to offer in late spring could potentially sell right in the middle of a hard winter to someone whose plow is suddenly damaged or can’t be repaired quickly, and will pay what it takes to get back in business right away. Don’t be afraid to offer your vehicle at what you might think is the “wrong” time. If someone needs it, you come out ahead.
Make Sure You’re Available to Show the Vehicle
Even the “right” time to advertise your vehicle will be the “wrong” time if you’re too busy to follow through with interested shoppers. No matter how good your vehicle is, no one’s going to wait while you try to find time to meet with them and show it to them; and a rushed showing while you’re trying to meet other obligations isn’t going to do you any favors either. If necessary, have a knowledgeable friend or employee show them the vehicle, but be sure to make time to work on the deal.
Take Plenty of Photos and Videos for Your Advertisement
Your listing should be a virtual walkaround of the vehicle, showing the interior and exterior, the undercarriage, tires, the engine, and any special features. Do this against an uncluttered background in good weather. In the video, describe what you’re showing, including any standout items that will help with the job it’s expected to do. Don’t be afraid to point out any flaws, and explain what they are and if they have any effect on the vehicle’s performance. Viewers will trust you more if you show the rough edges along with the “shiny side.”
Get the Vehicle Ready to Show
Prepare your used truck for sale by cleaning it thoroughly inside and out. Inside, clean the upholstery, the floors, the dash, and the glass. On the outside, touch up any scratches; clean and shine the tires with tire dressing; and polish any chrome or brightwork. If it’s a box truck or trailer, make sure the inside is clean, and if appropriate, give the floor and sides a coat of paint.
If there are any items going with it, such as upfits, trailer hitch, straps, or other accessories, gather them together and show them with the vehicle. A vehicle that’s clean and looks well-kept will always garner more interest than one that doesn’t look like someone cared for it.
Research Your Market
Set your vehicle’s price in comparison to others in your area, taking into account that these are asking prices and not necessarily what the vehicle brought. Make sure you’re comparing similar models, and if yours has extra features that most others don’t, be sure to highlight those near the top of your ad. Also realize your market.
A last-mile delivery truck will draw more eyes if offered in an urban area, while your ad for a long-haul truck could be sent out to a wider audience. To gain even more insight, stay informed on the latest market trends from Commercial Truck Trader.
Browse new and used work vans for sale online today.
Know Your Strategy and Bottom Line Up Front
Don’t just throw out a number and see what happens. You need to have a plan and be knowledgeable in how you talk to potential buyers. Set your price and be prepared to justify it, including the vehicle’s age, condition, any recent repairs, its features, and any bonuses such as good fuel economy, ease of use, or extra capacity. Know the vehicle inside and out, so you can answer any questions about its performance, its maintenance history, or what it can do. Also determine your rock-bottom price beforehand, so you can negotiate confidently to that point, with some flexibility but with a firm eye on how low you’ll go.
Once you’ve got everything ready, it’s time to advertise your vehicle. Get your photos and information together, and have someone proofread your ad to ensure it’s clear, informative, and has everything it needs. If you’ve done all your homework, your vehicle should be well on its way to being sold. Ready to get started? Check out these tips on maximizing your truck’s resale value.
Jil McIntosh
You might also like
