Your fire truck is often at the heart of your mission, and buying a new one is an important decision. These lifesaving machines have evolved significantly since their first patents in the early 18th Century, and today’s models are modern marvels. However, fire trucks, alongside other rescue vehicles and apparatus, represent a substantial investment. With larger budget limitations and longer lead times for new apparatus, these factors force municipalities to plan and get more creative with budgeting.
Many of the 52,332 registered fire stations nationwide are weighing the differences between new vs. used fire trucks. Both options have pros and cons that can guide your decision-making, which is where we can help with our comparison guide.
Considerations for Acquiring Used Fire Trucks
Used fire trucks can be an excellent option for your fire department, especially if you have budget constraints or specific needs that an existing vehicle can meet. Many models allow you to save money without sacrificing performance, but you must ask the right questions.
Although each fire station has unique considerations, buying a used fire truck can meet many of your requirements. Explore the pros and cons of purchasing a used fire truck below.
The Advantages of Buying Used Fire Trucks
The benefits of buying a used fire truck include:
- Cost savings: Used fire trucks are more affordable than new ones. Depending on the year and quality, you can expect to pay between $25,000 and $800,000 for models over 20 years old and less than 5 years old, respectively. If you can save on a reliable vehicle, you can allocate the remaining funds to more equipment and resources.
- Time savings: A used model is often the better choice if you need a fire truck urgently. Used fire trucks are often available immediately, while you may have to wait months to deliver a new one.
- Options and availability: If you’re looking for something specific or a truck in a particular range, browsing used fire trucks is more likely to get you what you want. There is a large market for used fire trucks, and you can find various types, sizes, and applications.
- Refurbishment options: If you have a specific budget, you can buy and refurbish a used fire truck, adding the enhancements you need for your particular use case. Refurbishing a fire truck has the added benefit of limiting your station’s environmental impact.
Potential Disadvantages of Buying Used Fire Trucks
Although a used fire truck can meet many of your needs, buying one may also present drawbacks, such as:
- Maintenance and operating costs: Even the most well-cared-for fire trucks go through hard service. If you buy a used one, it may come with considerable operating expenses. They can require significant maintenance throughout your operations.
- Reduced life span: Fire trucks are built for longevity, but they’re subjected to some of the most challenging conditions throughout their service lives. Used fire trucks may have significant wear and tear, which could reduce their useful lives. You may need to make frequent repairs and replacements to extend the life of your used fire truck. You’ll also have to conduct more frequent inspections.
Considerations for Buying New Fire Trucks
Buying a new fire truck is always an option. It offers several advantages over new or refurbished vehicles, provided you can manage the upfront investment. Below are some of the pros and cons of buying a new fire truck.
The Advantages of Buying New Fire Trucks
The benefits of buying a brand-new model include:
- Innovative technology and safety features: Technological advancements are coming out all the time, and having access to them can simplify your firefighters’ lives and keep them safe. You can also customize your order to meet your department’s requirements, adding features and capabilities unique to your applications.
- Extended service life: A new fire truck has yet to experience the challenges of active firefighting, which means it has a longer service life than a new or refurbished option. They also come with a warranty, which means you have assistance in the event of any defects.
- Compliance with regulatory standards: New fire trucks are built according to the National Fire Protection Association standards. They make meeting these standards and local requirements easier without costing additional money.
The Disadvantages of Buying New Fire Trucks
Despite these advantages, investing in a new fire truck also has significant drawbacks, including:
- High upfront investment: Fire department budgets have decreased steadily over the last few years, making every purchase a key consideration. Brand-new fire trucks can cost anywhere from $200,000 to almost $2 million, which can be prohibitive.
- Increased delivery times: Immediate access to a new fire truck is unlikely. The availability of new models has decreased over time. You may have to wait several months for delivery, especially if the provider is building the vehicle to your specifications.
- Depreciation: Like a car, your fire truck will depreciate in value from the moment you buy it, which could lead to losses when it’s time to sell.
Buying New vs. Used Fire Trucks: Which Is Best For You?
Your choice between new and used fire trucks depends on your unique fire department and its demands. With department budgets decreasing and lead times for new trucks increasing, buying used trucks is becoming more popular. Purchasing a new fire truck may give you all the latest technology, but at the expense of at least $200,000, it can impact your other resources. If your budget is limited, a used fire truck is likely the best option for you.
A fire truck must also meet your department’s operational requirements. Consider the size, features and other necessary enhancements. You may be able to find these in a used model. If not, a new truck might be better suited to your needs.
In addition, think about your department’s capacity for maintenance. If you have a team that can handle the maintenance and inspections required to keep a used fire truck running, you may also get more mileage from a used model.
Trust Fenton Fire Equipment Inc. For Used Fire Trucks
When you put your life on the line to protect your community, you want to do it confidently, knowing your fire truck can handle the job. At Fenton Fire Equipment Inc., we offer a vast selection of trucks for every fire department. As a trusted seller throughout the firefighting community, we understand what you need when you buy a used model.
When you browse our listings, you can confidently do so, knowing you’re getting an honest price for a durable, used fire truck. Feel free to contact us for more information, and we’ll help you purchase the right truck for your needs today!