With the rise of the commercial transportation industry and drivers wanting to go back home to their families more frequently, day cab trucks are becoming more attractive to drivers. There are many factors to consider when deciding what kind of day cab truck to buy. Should you buy new or used? How many axles should the truck have? What is my budget? Geneva Equipment is here to help you every step of the way. Before we move on, let’s explain what a day cab truck is.

What is a day cab truck? 

A day cab truck is a heavy-duty semi-truck that does not have a sleeper behind the driving cab. These trucks are commonly used for short distance hauling in the commercial transportation industry and are generally used for local & regional deliveries. Since the day cab does not have a sleeper, the chassis will be shorter and lighter in weight, resulting in the truck being more fuel-efficient and easier to maneuver during traffic and busy intersections, which is one of the reasons why drivers prefer a day cab truck over other models.

In addition, day cabs will usually either come with a single or tandem-axle model. Tandem axles typically weigh and cost more than the single axle. Depending on the load you carry, it will affect which axle you choose. If you plan on carrying a heavier load, you should go with the tandem axles. Make sure you know how much weight you will be carrying regularly.

Should you buy new or used? 

It’s always a hard decision to make: Should you buy new or used? Buying new can be costly. New day cab trucks range anywhere from $145,000-$295,000, which can be a lot, especially for new truck drivers starting in the industry. Plus, if you plan on financing, you will have to pay interest. Though, most of the time, new truck purchases will come with a warranty. When you need a part replacement or repair, you will have the peace of mind that it will be fixed with the warranty you have, and you will not pay out of your pocket.

On the other hand, buying used might be a better option if you don’t have the capital right away or you’re new to the transportation industry. There are plenty of used day cab trucks being sold nationwide that are in great condition, price, and come with a warranty, but be careful and don’t make an impulsive purchase if you don’t have enough buying experience.

What to look for when buying a used day cab. 

When considering purchasing any used day cab, always do a thorough inspection. Check the tires of the truck. Is there adequate tread depth? Are the tires recapped? Next, check the frame. Make sure there are no cracks, bends, sagging, or welded parts. Are there any signs of rust? Make sure to check all the bolts, lug notes, castings, body panels, doors, and hinges to see if there are any signs of rusting. Then move onto the brakes. Check if there are any signs of cracks, corrosion, or air leaks.

Once you do a thorough inspection of the truck, take it out for a test drive. Test out the brakes and acceleration. Next, listen to and observe the engine for excessive blow by. Are there any unusual sounds the engine is making? Is the truck running and stopping smoothly? Doing an inspection will help you catch any issues the truck may be having and help you dodge any repairs you may have needed to do.

Another important factor to consider is the truck’s maintenance history. Try to find out how many previous owners the truck has had, and the condition when it arrived at the dealer. This will help you find out if the day cab has been well maintained. Check if there have been any part replacements made. In addition, find out if the truck dealer or owner has repaired anything or added additional features or parts recently. Lastly, have a trusted mechanic inspect the truck for you. By doing this, it will help identify any immediate maintenance concerns.

Conclusion: 

There are a lot of factors to consider when buying a used day cab truck. From knowing the maintenance history to doing a thorough inspection. With the help of this buyer guide, our team of experts will consult with you every step of the way to help you find the right day cab truck for your budget. Delivery is available in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada.