Equipment

Best Vehicle For A Commercial Cleaning Business

If you run a cleaning business, one of your most important investments is the right company vehicle.

For cleaning companies, having a set of wheels isn’t just about getting from A to B – it’s about being efficient, professional, and on top of your game. The right vehicle plays a major role in your day-to-day operations and business success, so choosing this vehicle carefully is crucial.

Why Do Cleaning Companies Need to Invest in Vehicles?

Cleaning companies need vehicles for two main reasons: getting around efficiently and looking professional.

Having a fleet of vehicles helps crews move quickly between jobs, making it easier to serve more clients. It’s especially handy for emergencies like spills or water damage, where a fast response is crucial. Plus, it gives your cleaning business a more polished image, which can attract new clients.

A company vehicle also makes the behind-the-scenes stuff run smoother. They help transport equipment and supplies to different jobs, making sure crews have what they need. For example, carrying carpet cleaning machines around is impossible without the right company vehicle.

This makes operations more organized, and having a dedicated fleet saves money in the long run by reducing wear and tear on personal vehicles and keeping maintenance costs in check. It also means you don’t have to worry about personal vehicle insurance mixing with your cleaning business.

Considerations When Buying A Vehicle For Cleaning Business

Whether you run a commercial or residential cleaning business, purchasing a company vehicle is a major expense. Here are some important considerations to make to ensure you get the right vehicle.

1. Space

Assess the interior space of the vehicle to ensure it can accommodate your cleaning equipment and supplies.

Depending on the nature of your business, you may need sufficient cargo space for vacuum cleaners, carpet cleaning machines, or other specialized tools.

2. Price

Stick to a budget that aligns with your business’s financial capabilities. Consider not only the upfront cost of the vehicle but also potential financing options, ongoing expenses (like gas mileage), and the overall cost of ownership.

It’s essential to strike a balance between acquiring a reliable vehicle and managing your business’s financial health.

3. Maintenance Cost

Evaluate the expected maintenance costs of the vehicle. Opt for models with a reputation for reliability and affordability in terms of upkeep.

Lower maintenance costs contribute to long-term cost savings. It also ensures that your vehicle remains in optimal condition for your cleaning business operations.

4. Insurance Costs

Investigate insurance costs associated with different vehicle models.

Insurance premiums can vary based on factors like the vehicle’s make, model, and safety features. Insurance can be a major expense related to company vehicles, so consider your cleaning business fleet carefully to minimize expenses where possible.

It’s a good idea to chat with an insurance agent first to get an idea of how much premiums might be on your vehicle.

5. Fuel Efficiency

Consider the fuel efficiency of the vehicle to manage your operational costs more effectively.

Evaluate the miles per gallon (MPG) and choose a vehicle that is fuel efficient while still meeting the operational requirements of your cleaning business.

6. Safety

Prioritize safety features to protect your employees and maintain a positive business reputation.

Look for vehicles equipped with proper safety technology, like airbags, anti-lock brakes, and collision avoidance systems. This reduces the risk of accidents during daily operations.

7. Vehicle Advertising

Use your work vehicle as a mobile advertising tool. Consider custom vehicle graphics or wraps that promote your cleaning business while on the road and at job sites.

This advertising can seriously enhance your brand visibility, so ensure the vehicle you choose will help promote your business this way.

8. Additional Features

Explore additional features that could improve the functionality of your cleaning business vehicle.

This may include built-in storage solutions, easy-to-clean interiors, and customizable compartments for organizing cleaning supplies.

The Best Vehicles for a Cleaning Company

The right vehicle for your cleaning business depends on your specific needs. However, here are the most common options.

Vans

A cargo van is often considered one of the best vehicle options for cleaning companies because of its versatility and ample cargo space.

They come in various sizes, allowing you to choose a model that suits your business needs. The sliding side doors and rear cargo access make it easy to load and unload equipment and supplies.

Vans also provide a professional image for your cleaning business, and some models can be customized with interior shelving for better organization of tools and cleaning products.

Pickup Trucks

Pickup trucks are a good choice for those who need to transport larger equipment or handle outdoor cleaning tasks.

Pickup trucks offer a robust payload capacity, making them suitable for hauling heavy loads of cleaning supplies or towing trailers with specialized equipment. The open bed design allows for easy access to tools and materials, and many models come with extended cabs for extra passenger space.

Consider a pickup truck if your cleaning business involves outdoor or heavy-duty cleaning tasks.

Other Options

Depending on the specific needs of your cleaning business, there are other viable options to explore.

Compact or midsize SUVs can be suitable for smaller operations with less equipment and staff. They often provide better fuel efficiency compared to larger vehicles. A car loan on them will also be more affordable.

Electric or hybrid vehicles are also becoming popular choices for environmentally conscious cleaning companies, offering reduced emissions and lower operational costs.

Box trucks or utility vehicles could be suitable for larger cleaning companies with substantial equipment and staff.

Final Thoughts

Whether you go for a cargo van, a box truck, or an SUV, make sure that the vehicle matches your specific business needs. Take your time choosing this, as investing in the right business vehicle is critical for your day-to-day operations and success.

You’ll also need to ensure you have the right financing partners in place to make purchasing this vehicle a seamless process. Get in touch with us at Mission Financial Services to make this process as easy as possible.

A Guide to Selecting Food Truck Equipment

Choosing the right equipment for your food truck business can be overwhelming if you’re just getting started.

This guide lists essential equipment and offers tips for selecting the right appliances to fit your truck’s limited space. Our goal is to simplify your equipment choices for a successful and profitable mobile kitchen venture.

6 Things to Consider Before Buying Food Truck Equipment

To run your food truck smoothly, the equipment you need depends on your business model. For example, if you’re selling frozen treats, your appliance needs will differ from those selling hot snacks and meals.

Evaluate your business needs carefully before purchasing equipment, then consider seven factors to ensure ongoing success.

1. Quality

Invest in high-quality and reliable food truck appliances that will serve you well for the long haul. Your equipment determines the efficiency of your truck’s operations and affects your capacity to generate profit.

Low-quality equipment is inefficient and may require frequent repairs or replacement, which increases your truck’s operating costs and reduces your profit margins. High-quality appliances are efficient and durable.

2. Space

Despite limited space, food trucks can host efficient industrial kitchens when you use space effectively.

Opt for compact models that can do the job without occupying excessive space. Dual-purpose equipment is also valuable for maximizing limited space. Plan your kitchen layout based on menu items and service style to ensure smooth cooking operations and high-quality service to customers.

3. Equipment Maintenance

Food truck equipment is only worthwhile if it’s easy to use, clean, and maintain. How well does it do its job, and how do you clean it?
You must meet several food equipment sanitation and safety certification standards to thrive. If an appliance requires too much time or effort to maintain and you cannot clean it regularly, it may not be the best option.

4. Suppliers

Suppliers are a vital part of running your food truck successfully. Think about partnering with local restaurant supplies wholesalers who, for a small membership fee, offer a range of premium equipment at affordable prices.

The best suppliers are honest about the technology and safety of their products and can help you find the best appliances for your specific needs. They also provide equipment installation, maintenance, and repair add-on services.

5. Pricing

When budgeting for your food truck equipment, prioritize high-quality items essential to your business model.

For example, if you’re selling French fries, focus on investing in top-quality washing and peeling machines, fries cutters, frying, de-oiling, and drying equipment, as these are crucial for your operations. Though the initial cost may be high, the returns will justify the investment.

6. Financing or Leasing

Financing or leasing your food truck equipment is an excellent alternative if you want to begin your venture with minimal financial risk until you’re sure the business model you’ve chosen will work.

Equipment Needed to Start a Food Truck

Every mobile kitchen is different, but there are some appliances and supplies all of them must have for you to perform your day-to-day activities. Most of this equipment falls into the following categories:

Storage Equipment

Storage equipment is necessary to store ingredients, prepped menu items, and leftovers. Go for containers instead of plastic bags when storing hot and saucy foods. Storage containers are durable and reusable.

You can also use them to reheat food in microwaves. Ensure you buy your containers in various sizes to meet different storage needs.

Preparation Equipment

These include tools you’ll use to ensure all the ingredients you need to cook your menu items are ready before you cook. Essential food prep items are:

Kitchen cutlery and utensils.
Cutting boards. It’s advisable to get color-coded cutting boards to avoid cross-contamination from different foods. You can buy a blue cutting board for fish, red for beef, etc.
Thermometers ensure your food is thoroughly cooked in safe temperatures to meet the required safety standards.
Blenders enable you to prepare sauces and smoothies fast. Choose powerful blenders that can handle different menu items.

Cooking Equipment

To prepare fresh meals, you need the right cooking equipment. The exact cooking appliance you require depends on the food you plan to cook. Some popular options include:

Griddle—for cooking everyday foods like sandwiches, eggs, and vegetables
Char broiler—offering gourmet burgers? This helps you prepare flavor-rich food fast.
Food truck ovens for baking
Countertop fryers
Toasters

Refrigeration and Cooling

Refrigeration and cooling equipment preserve perishable items in your inventory. These appliances also keep your meals fresh and beverages cold and include:

Under-counter freezers
Worktop refrigerators
Refrigerated prep tables
Countertop glass door refrigerators
Chest and ice cream freezes
Food warming equipment

You can use the following warming appliances to warm pre-cooked foods before serving your customers:

Countertop food warmers
Kettle or soup warmers
Fry warmers
Display warmers

Serving equipment

Serving supplies allows customers to enjoy your dishes comfortably. The most common ones are:

Disposable food containers and cups
Condiment pumps, like salt and pepper shakers. Or toppings and seasonings self-service dispensers. You can also offer condiments in portion packs so your on-the-go take-out service is quick.
Napkin and paper towel dispensers

Sanitation and safety equipment

Cleaning and safety supplies are crucial for your business to flourish long-term. You must maintain specific hygiene standards to pass frequent health inspections and keep your working permits.

Some essential cleaning equipment and supplies include sinks, sani-buckets, gloves, food service chemicals for cleaning different equipment, dish-cleaning chemicals, trash cans, and liners.
To meet the required safety standards, you’ll need:

First aid kits
Regularly serviced fire extinguishers
Fire suppression system or sprinklers,
Labels to ensure food items get used safely before their shelf life expires.

Equipment For Your Electricity Needs

Most food truck equipment requires electricity to work. Your truck’s batteries may not be enough to power them all. You’ll need a portable and reliable power source, like a generator, for your appliances to work well all day.

Gas generators are the easiest to use. However, their harsh noise and fumes can put off customers. Instead, consider getting propane generators. You’ll have to fill them regularly, but they’re less harsh on smell and sound.

New vs. Used Food Truck Equipment

The decision between new and used food truck equipment is an ongoing debate in the industry.

While some items without internal parts can be safely purchased and used if well-maintained, equipment with moving parts like ovens and heaters pose higher risks as they may deteriorate over time.

Starting with used equipment saves money initially but can lead to higher maintenance costs and downtime later. Newer, high-quality equipment is typically more efficient and comes with warranty coverage.

Final Thoughts

Our selection of food truck supplies and equipment should help you start stocking up the right items to get your business running successfully.

Remember to check your appliances’ cooking power when assessing their quality before purchase. You want to ensure you can prepare large quantities of tasty food fast to get the most out of your food truck.

To finance your food truck purchase, check out Mission Financial Services. We can customize our commercial vehicle financing options to help you buy a new or used truck affordably. Get in touch to learn more about this.

Best Semi Truck For Owner-Operators

Whether purchasing your first truck or upgrading to a newer model, buying a semi-truck is a significant investment that requires many considerations. As an owner-operator, your truck is the most essential piece of equipment that your entire business relies on. So, choosing the right truck is vital.

There are many types of semi-trucks out there, each catering to different trucking needs and preferences. The type you choose should be carefully selected based on the specifics of your trucking business.

In this guide, we’ll break down some of the most important things to remember to help you choose the right semi-truck as an owner-operator.

Choosing The Truck For New Owner Operators

As a semi-truck owner-operator, one of the most critical business decisions you need to make is choosing the right truck for your business. Unfortunately, there’s no single “best truck” for owner-operators.

Picking your semi-truck brand and model depends on your preferences and the type of work the truck will do. Of course, different trucks offer different benefits. These include improved fuel efficiency, greater power, increased comfort, and advanced features, like driver performance assist.

However, the vehicle you choose should depend on the type of work you do in the trucking industry and what kind of truck you prefer.

Points To Consider When Buying A Semi Truck

There’s a lot to consider when choosing the right semi-truck for your business needs. Here are a few important considerations to ensure you select a reliable semi-truck.

Budget Wisely

Determining a realistic budget is the all-important initial step in choosing a semi-truck. Consider not only the upfront cost but also ongoing expenses like maintenance, fuel efficiency, insurance, and potential repairs.

Once you have a budget, you can narrow down your list of semi-truck brands, models, and years.

Age of the Truck

Decide whether you prefer an older or newer truck.

Newer trucks generally offer updated technology, better fuel efficiency, and fewer maintenance issues. Older trucks might be cheaper initially but may require more frequent repairs.

Some drivers prefer older classic American semi-trucks as a personal choice, while others like the latest models from truck manufacturers. Of course, your budget will also dictate how old or new your chosen truck will be. Just keep in mind that financing older trucks can be more difficult.

Technical Requirements for Routes and Freight

Assess the technical specifications required for your trucking business.

Consider factors like engine power, axle configuration, load capacity, fuel efficiency, and adaptability to different road conditions. If you need to haul oversized loads or unique cargo (like a tanker), then make sure your truck aligns with these needs.

Cab Type – Day Cab or Sleeper

Determine whether you need a day cab for shorter routes or a truck with a sleeper compartment for long-haul trips. Sleeper cabs offer resting space and amenities for drivers during overnight stops.

Semi trucks with a sleeper cab are more expensive but they are necessary for long-haul trucking.

Transmission Preference

Decide between a manual transmission for more control or an automated manual transmission (AMT) for ease of use and potentially better fuel efficiency. This really just comes down to your personal preference for driving.

State Regulations on Vehicle Emissions

Understand the emission regulations in the states where you operate. Some areas have strict emission standards that might affect your choice of truck or require additional modifications.

Business Operator Strengths

Consider your strengths as a business operator.

Are you proficient in maintaining and repairing vehicles, or do you rely heavily on maintenance services? This can influence the type of truck that best suits your operation.

Truck Make Preference

Do you have a preferred truck manufacturer based on reputation, previous experience, or reliability? Choosing from the best semi-truck brands that you trust is always a good call.

Must-Haves

Identify any specific features or necessities that you need for your operations.

This might include advanced safety systems, comfort amenities, specific engine specifications, or warranty considerations.

Best Trucks For Long-Haul

Choosing the right truck for long-haul operations should come down to the vehicle’s reliability, comfort, fuel efficiency, and performance.

While this can vary depending on specific preferences and needs, here are some of the most popular options for long-haul trucking.

Volvo VNL Series

These trucks have earned a reputation for their comfort, safety features, and fuel efficiency. They offer various sleeper cab options and advanced technology for long-haul comfort.

Freightliner Cascadia

These trucks have gained recognition for their fuel efficiency and aerodynamic design. This truck provides a range of sleeper cab configurations and advanced driver-assistance systems.

Kenworth T680/T880

The durability and driver comfort of these Kenworth trucks are renowned. They offer customizable options for sleeper cabs and fuel-efficient engines.

Peterbilt 579/587

The main focus of these trucks is on fuel efficiency and aerodynamics. They provide sleeper cab options and have a reputation for reliability.

Mack Anthem

People know the Mack Anthem for its ruggedness and advanced safety features. This truck offers various sleeper cab configurations for long-haul comfort.
International LT Series

These popular trucks focus on providing driver comfort and fuel efficiency. They include sleeper cab options and advanced technology for long-haul operations.

Best For Short-Haul Trucking

For short-haul trucking, where frequent stops and local deliveries are common, versatility, maneuverability, and efficiency are crucial. Here are some of the most reliable semi-trucks for these types of operations.

Isuzu NPR Series

This type of truck is known for its compact size and maneuverability. It’s ideal for urban deliveries and smaller loads with good fuel efficiency.

Ford F-650/F-750

These trucks offer a range of configurations suitable for various short-haul tasks. They’re known for their reliability and versatility for local deliveries.

Hino 155/195 Series

These are compact and efficient trucks suitable for urban deliveries. They’re known for their maneuverability and reliability in city driving.

Freightliner M2 106

The Freightliner are versatile and customizable trucks for various short-haul applications. They offer good maneuverability and fuel efficiency for local deliveries.

Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra 4500/5500

These are solid and reliable trucks suitable for smaller-scale short-haul operations. They provide excellent versatility and ease of maneuverability for urban deliveries.

Ram 5500 Chassis Cab

These international trucks offer multiple configurations suitable for various short-haul tasks.
They’re known for their durability and capability for local deliveries.

Best For Local Trucking

Local trucking involves frequent stops, city driving, and shorter distances. So, you’ll want trucks that offer maneuverability, durability, and efficiency in urban environments. Here are some of the most popular options.

Isuzu N-Series (NPR/NQR)

Known for compact size and maneuverability, these trucks are ideal for urban deliveries. They offer good fuel efficiency and durability for local routes.

Ford Transit

A versatile truck that’s available in various sizes suitable for local deliveries. These trucks provide excellent agility and efficiency for navigating city streets.

Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

This popular type of truck offers multiple body styles and configurations for local cargo transportation. It’s known for its comfort, efficiency, and maneuverability in urban settings.

Chevrolet Express/GMC Savana

Chevrolet Express are versatile vans suitable for various local delivery tasks. They’re durable and offer ample cargo space for urban deliveries.

Ram ProMaster

These smaller trucks offer customizable options for local cargo transportation. They’re known for their maneuverability and efficiency in city driving.

Nissan NV Series

The Nissan NV Series provides various configurations for local cargo transportation. They’re durable and reliable for urban delivery operations.

5 Best Semi-Truck Brands

A massive part of choosing the best semi-trucks comes down to the brand. Here are five of the most reputable and widely recognized semi-truck brands known for their quality, reliability, and performance in the industry.

Mack Trucks

Their durability and ruggedness have made Mack trucks renowned. They’re recognized for their robust construction and strength, making them popular choices for various hauling applications.

Freightliner

Freightliner offers a wide range of trucks suitable for different operations. They’re known for their innovation, efficiency, and advanced technology in trucking.

Kenworth

These trucks generally focus on customization and driver comfort. Kenworth trucks are popular for their reliability, versatility, and personalized options.

Volvo Trucks

Volvo takes up a huge share of the truck market. Volvo semi-trucks are focused on safety, fuel efficiency, and advanced technology. Volvo trucks are known for their innovation in safety features and environmental sustainability.

Peterbilt

Peterbilt trucks offer a combination of performance and style. They’re recognized for their distinctive design, reliability, and customizable options.

Great Condition is a Priority .

Regardless of the make, model, or production year, it’s essential that the semi-truck you purchase is in great condition.

The overall quality, maintenance history, and current condition of your trucking equipment is more important than the specific brand or model you choose. Ensuring that your truck is in top-notch shape is crucial to its performance, reliability, and longevity, ultimately impacting the efficiency and success of your operations.

Regular maintenance, thorough inspections, and verifying the equipment’s condition before purchase are critical steps to ensure it meets the necessary standards for your business needs. A well-maintained vehicle will also help you avoid commercial truck accidents.

Final Thoughts

Whatever make or model of semi-truck you choose, make sure that you focus on finding a quality vehicle that has been well-maintained. Of course, the truck you choose should tick all of the right boxes for your business needs.

When purchasing a semi-truck, you’ll also need to make sure that you work with the right financing supplier. Get in touch with us at Mission Financial Services to discover just how easy semi-truck financing can be – even if you have poor credit or are looking for an older model of truck.

The Commercial Trucking Insurance Requirements You Need To Know About

Commercial trucking is a vital industry that keeps goods moving across cities, states, and countries. Grocery stores would go out of stock in three days if the trucking industry suddenly stopped operating.

Before reaping the rewards of owning trucking companies as the operating authority, you must meet the commercial trucking insurance requirements. With the right knowledge, you can ensure the best protection for your business, comply with legal regulations, and mitigate potential risks.

We’ll explore the types of insurance coverage, discuss their purposes, coverage specifics, and the importance of obtaining adequate coverage limits. So, let’s dive in and explore the essential insurance requirements that every commercial trucking professional should know.

Top Commercial Trucking Insurance Requirements

As a commercial trucking professional, understanding and meeting the insurance requirements is vital for the success and security of your business. Let’s unravel the key insurance requirements crucial for a thriving and protected commercial trucking operation.

Liability Insurance

Commercial auto liability insurance is a crucial requirement for commercial trucking operations. It covers damages or injuries caused by your truck while on public roads. There are two parts to public liability insurance, namely the following:

Bodily injury: This coverage pays for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other costs associated with injuries to other parties involved in an accident caused by your truck. It helps protect you financially if you’re found responsible for causing bodily harm to others.
Property damage: Your commercial truck insurance pays for repairing or replacing other people’s property damaged by your truck. It includes vehicles, structures, or any other property that may have been affected.

There are certain commercial trucking insurance requirements that you need to follow when running a trucking company. Let’s look at a few:

Minimum coverage: The minimum liability insurance requirements can vary depending on the jurisdiction and the type of cargo you transport. Each jurisdiction typically sets its minimum limits for liability coverage. For example, it may require a certain minimum amount of coverage per accident, as well as a minimum coverage amount for property damage and bodily injury.
Proof of insurance: It’s important to carry proof of liability insurance with you while operating your commercial truck. In most jurisdictions, you need to carry proof of insurance documents. This proof can be an insurance certificate or a card showing you have the required coverage.
Additional considerations: Some requirements can also be influenced by the size and weight of your small-scale semi-truck and the cargo you’re transporting. Some jurisdictions may have specific insurance requirements for specialized trucking operations like hazardous materials transportation.

Liability insurance protects your business and personal assets in an accident. It’s essential to understand the specific commercial trucking insurance requirements and consult with insurance professionals to ensure you have the proper insurance coverage for your trucking company.

Cargo Insurance

Motor truck cargo insurance is a specific type of insurance coverage crucial for commercial trucking operations involving the transportation of goods.

This physical damage coverage protects the cargo that you’re hauling in your truck. It provides coverage if the shipment is damaged, lost, or stolen during transit.

Let’s look at how cargo insurance works:

Coverage: Cargo insurance typically covers a range of risks that can affect the cargo in transit. It includes damages caused by accidents, theft, vandalism, fire, natural disasters, and other unforeseen events.
Types of cargo: Cargo insurance can be tailored to the specific goods you’re transporting. Whether it’s general merchandise, perishable goods, hazardous materials, valuable items, or specialized cargo, insurance options are available to suit different cargo types.
Coverage limits: The coverage limits for cargo insurance depend on the value of the cargo being transported. It’s essential to accurately estimate the value of the goods and ensure that your coverage adequately protects their worth.

The coverage limits for cargo insurance depend on the cargo’s value. It’s essential to accurately estimate the value of the goods and ensure that your coverage adequately protects their worth.

Bobtail Insurance

Bobtail insurance, or non-trucking liability insurance, is a type of insurance coverage designed for commercial truck drivers who operate their vehicles without a trailer or while not under dispatch.

Coverage: Bobtail insurance covers bodily injury and property damage liability. If you cause an accident while bobtailing, this insurance helps cover medical expenses, property repairs, legal fees, and other associated costs.
Difference from liability insurance: Primary liability insurance covers your truck while you are under dispatch. Bobtail insurance extends coverage to your vehicle during non-business or off-duty situations.
Employer coverage: If you are a leased driver, your motor carrier may provide primary liability coverage while you’re under dispatch. However, once you’re off-duty or bobtailing, that coverage may not apply. Bobtail insurance helps fill that gap and provides coverage during non-business use.

Insurance requirements: Some motor carriers or contracts may require you to carry bobtail insurance as a condition of employment. It ensures adequate coverage when operating the truck outside of business-related activities.
Cost and coverage limits: The cost of bobtail insurance can vary based on factors such as your driving record, the value of your truck, and the coverage limits you choose. The coverage limits should be sufficient to protect you in case of an accident.

This is an essential insurance for owner-operators or leased drivers who use their trucks for personal use or when returning to their base after completing a delivery. It offers protection when the truck is not actively engaged in business-related activities.

Final Thoughts

Understanding commercial truck insurance requirements is essential for anyone involved in the trucking industry. Whether you’re an owner-operator or a leased driver, these requirements help ensure compliance, protect your business, and minimize potential risks.

Commercial trucking Insurance requirements can vary by jurisdiction, cargo type, and the nature of your trucking operation. By following these commercial trucking insurance requirements, you can confidently choose the right insurance company and operate while protecting your assets.

At Mission Financial Services, we can help you get started in the exciting world of operating trucking companies. We can also point you in the right direction for commercial truck insurance for small businesses. No matter your credit score, get in touch to find out how.

Everything To Know About Used Semi Trucks For Sale By Owner

Buying a semi-truck can be a complicated process – especially if you buy semi-trucks directly from the owner.

You need to make sure that the truck is suitable for your needs, in good condition, and that the price is right. You also need to ensure all documentation and legalities are sorted before proceeding with the purchase.

To help you buy a semi-truck for sale by owner, this guide outlines all the steps and considerations you need to make.

Used Semi Trucks For Sale By Owner: The Guide

Research and Budgeting

Before you start searching for used semi trucks for sale, determine your budget and the type of truck you need. This should depend on the type of semi-truck business you run, the type of cargo you plan to haul, and the length of the routes you plan to run.

If you plan to do long routes, then look for semi-trucks that have all the required features for sleeping, eating, and driving. If you plan to haul goods over short distances, then you may need a more simple truck.

Of course, you’ll need to consider factors like the truck’s age, mileage, make, model, and any specific features you require. All of this should be planned. Otherwise, you will face a wide selection of trucks that don’t fit your requirements.

When researching for semi-trucks for sale by owner, be sure to also consider the insurance costs and add this to your budget. Planning this will help you establish a clear budget. Now, you can start saving for a down payment on this – usually around 10%.

Finding Trucks for Sale

Now that you know what you want, you can start to search for semi-trucks for sale by owner.

There are many different places that truckers can look when buying used vehicles. Look for used semi trucks being sold by owners through various channels, such as online classified ads, trucking forums, social media groups, and local newspapers. Websites like Craigslist, Truck Paper, and Commercial Truck Trader are also great resources.

Finding the right truck should be relatively straightforward if you have put enough planning in because you can simply look for a vehicle that matches your specific requirements and price within your location.

Ideally, you’ll look for manufacturers and models that you are familiar with.

Once you have found a few suitable semi-trucks, get in touch with the owner and arrange to check the truck out.

Request a Vehicle History Report

Once you’ve found a truck and seller that looks good, you need to make sure that the vehicle is trustworthy.

Always request a vehicle history report for any truck you’re interested in. This report will provide vital information about the truck’s accident history, title status, and odometer readings. Services like Carfax or AutoCheck can help you obtain these reports.

It’s also important to ask the owner for maintenance records and service history. Regular maintenance is crucial for the longevity of a truck, and well-documented records indicate a well-cared-for vehicle.

When you search for semi-trucks for sale by owner, there’s a lot more risk involved compared to purchasing from a reputable company. As this is such an expensive investment, you need to make sure that you carefully research any vehicle you find before you buy it.

Inspect and Test Drive the Truck

Arrange to inspect the truck in person before making any commitments.

Look for signs of wear, rust, mechanical issues, and damage. Check the engine, transmission, brakes, tires, fuel filters, and other critical components. This could help you pick up on potentially expensive issues – like bad shocks.

If you’re not knowledgeable about trucks, consider hiring a professional mechanic to inspect them. This could end up saving you a lot of money and headaches.

Take the truck for a test drive. Evaluate how it handles, accelerates, and brakes. Pay attention to any strange noises or vibrations during the drive. Pay attention to how clean the truck is too, as this could be a signal for how well-cared for the truck is. Make sure you have a complete understanding of the model before you choose to buy it.

Consider all the Ownership Costs

As mentioned earlier, your budget must include all the costs of owning a truck. These extend beyond the truck itself and include things like cargo handling equipment, insurance, and semi-truck parking costs.

Consider the overall cost of ownership, including insurance, fuel, maintenance, and potential repair expenses. Factor these costs into your budgeting and decision-making process.

Prepare for the Purchase

When you find the right truck, you’ll need to get all the documents ready and prepare for purchase.

Ensure that the truck’s title is clear and that there are no outstanding legal issues with the vehicle. Verify that the necessary paperwork is for a smooth ownership transfer.

Always have a written purchase agreement that outlines the terms of the sale, including the agreed-upon price, conditions, and any warranties or guarantees.

Secure Funding

Finally, you’ll need to secure a loan for buying a semi-truck. Mission Financial makes this process easy, as any truckers can find semi-truck funding that matches their needs – even with a bad credit score.

Get in touch with us to get a quote and see how easy it is to find funding for a used semi-truck.

Insurance, Registration, and Licensing

Once you own the truck, complete the registration and licensing process in your state or country as required. You’ll also need to make sure your truck is properly insured from day one.

Once this has been done, the semi-truck is ready for you to drive away.

Conclusion

Buying used semi-trucks is a great way to save money. When you follow the right process and properly research and inspect the vehicle, finding the perfect truck is easier than you think.

Be sure to follow the steps outlined above, and take your time looking for a used semi-truck. With a careful buying process in place, you should be able to find a truck that matches all of your requirements. Reach out to Mission Financial Services if you have any questions!

What Commercial Vehicle Insurance Cost Should You Expect? (+ FAQs)

If you’re looking to know all you can about commercial vehicle insurance cost, read on.

If your company owns and uses vehicles for business operations, you most likely need commercial auto insurance coverage. It’s legally required in most states.

On average, commercial vehicle insurance costs around $147 per month for each vehicle. You could pay more or less, depending on your type of vehicle, and coverage limits, among other factors.

Learn more about commercial vehicle insurance and its costs below. We’ll also share practical tips to help you save money when getting insurance coverage for your company vehicles.

What Is Commercial Vehicle Insurance

Commercial car insurance is a form of auto insurance designed for vehicles conducting business operations. You and your insurer get into an agreement outlining how the insurance company will compensate you for any financial losses related to an accident.

It’s different from personal auto insurance, although both offer personal injury protection. Personal car insurance policy only covers claims related to non-business use. You can’t rely on this type of insurance coverage if you or your employee needs to pay for any damages after causing an accident.

Without commercial insurance, your business will have to cater for any legal and medical expenses out-of-pocket, which can be expensive.

How Much Does Commercial Auto Insurance Cost

The cost of commercial auto insurance ranges from $50 to $200 per month, per vehicle, averaging out at about $147, as noted earlier. That’s around $600 to $2400 annually for a standard car used for commercial purposes. Other types of commercial vehicles will require you to pay more.

Here’s what you should expect to pay annually to insure different types of business vehicles:

Box trucks/ Delivery vans: $3,300 to $6,200
Taxis/ Limousines: $4,000 to $10,000
Semi-trucks: $8,000 to $12,000
Commercial bus: $35,000+

Besides the type of business vehicles you own, six other main factors affect how much you’ll pay for commercial car insurance.

Factors Affecting The Cost Of Commercial Vehicle Insurance

Insurance providers use different aspects of your business to set commercial auto insurance rates. Some of these include:

Type Of Coverage

The type of commercial auto coverage you choose will affect your commercial vehicle insurance cost. By law, the basic coverage required in most states is auto liability.

Auto liability is the lowest-cost property damage and bodily injury liability insurance coverage. It helps pay for physical damages to another party’s vehicles or property and their medical expenses when your company vehicle causes an auto accident.

In addition to auto liability, you may purchase any of the following commercial auto insurance covers. Each additional coverage increases your commercial auto insurance costs by a different amount, which varies from one insurance provider to another.

Collision coverage: Pays for damages to your vehicle after an accident, whether you were at fault or not.
Comprehensive coverage: Protects your company vehicles against theft and other non-collision damages, like fire, vandalism, and certain weather events.
Uninsured motorist coverage: Covers vehicle damage and medical costs for victims of an accident caused by someone uninsured.
Hired and Non-owned liability coverage: Pays for property damage if you use your vehicle or rented car for business purposes.
Rental reimbursement: This covers the cost of renting a vehicle for a specific period, outlined in your commercial policy
GAP protection: This covers you if you lose your vehicle before you finish paying it off. You’ll get the difference between your vehicle’s actual cash value and your loan’s unpaid net balance. To learn more about this and other additional coverage options, check out Mission Financial Services’s add-on coverage offers.

Extent Of Coverage

Commercial auto insurance costs for small business owners with several commercial vehicles and drivers are higher than those with one business vehicle and one driver. The more vehicles or drivers you need to insure, the higher the costs will be.

Coverage Limits

When you purchase coverage, you must determine your coverage limits. Most states have a minimum amount of liability coverage you have to meet. In Illinois, for example, commercial auto insurance policy minimums include:

$25,000 bodily injury liability per person
$50,000 in bodily injury compensation per accident, and
$20,000 property damage liability

Often, state minimums are not always enough to cover insurance claims fully. You’ll almost always have to get higher coverage limits for better protection. Higher limits require higher insurance premiums.

Also, these varying state minimums mean that your location affects your commercial car insurance cost.

Deductibles

Most commercial vehicle insurance policies have deductibles – an amount you must pay out-of-pocket for any claim you face. This affects your commercial auto insurance cost. Higher deductibles reduce your insurance rates, while lower ones increase them.

Type of Business

Your primary business activities and the industry you operate in also affect your commercial auto insurance costs. You’ll pay more to insure vehicles constantly on the road and those operating in industries considered high-risk for accidents. The type of cargo you haul and the distance or miles you cover also contribute to your cost of commercial auto insurance.

For instance, commercial car insurance costs for trucks transporting hazardous materials are higher than for pick-up trucks used for delivery services occasionally.

You’ll also pay more if your company drivers make interstate trips or travel long distances.

Employee Driving Records

When calculating commercial car insurance policy rates, auto insurance companies review your employees’ driving records. Your commercial auto insurance cost might be higher if you have a history of speeding tickets, accidents, or other traffic violations.

In contrast, if all your drivers have a clean driving record, you’ll enjoy lower commercial auto policy rates.

How To Save Money When Getting Commercial Insurance

Choose high deductibles. As mentioned earlier, higher deductibles lower your commercial auto policy rates. You’ll save money on cheaper monthly premiums.
Vet your drivers and maintain a good driving record. Vetting your drivers ensures they have clean driving records, so you get cheaper commercial vehicle insurance rates. To keep these rates low, motivate your drivers to continue driving safely by offering incentives, including bonuses.
Install driving GPS trackers. You will likely qualify for huge discounts if you install trackers and observe other safety measures, like parking in a secure location. In addition to protection against theft, GPS tracking helps you monitor your drivers while on the road. Insurance providers interpret this as a safe driving practice and will offer lower rates.
Check your company vehicle safety features. As a standard practice, commercial vehicle insurance companies base their rates on the safety features of your company vehicle. These features include automatic brakes, airbags, and rearview cameras. The safer your car is, the lower your commercial car insurance costs and the more you’ll save.
Bundle your vehicles as a fleet. If your business owns several vehicles, bundle them as a fleet. Some insurance providers offer discounts for fleets.
Pay your premium upfront. Most commercial auto insurance companies offer discounts when you pay your annual dues in a lump sum.

Conclusion

Commercial car insurance is a must-have if you use your vehicles for work. It’s a safety net for your business, preventing you from spending thousands of dollars in settlement and other costs in case of an accident.

To get the best commercial auto insurance, evaluate your business needs first. You want to get the best auto insurance coverage without buying more than your business requires.

Once you understand your business needs, compare multiple commercial auto insurance quotes. Read the fine print of each quote to understand what’s covered, how much it costs, and whether it aligns with what you’re looking for.

Check out our blog to learn everything you need about commercial insurance for small businesses.