Portable restrooms are essential for worksites, concert venues, public areas and parks. While it’s not the most glamorous business undertaking, the portable sanitation industry is an essential one that is expected to grow by over 7% each year between 2022 to 2030. Regular rounds of restroom maintenance and cleaning are an essential part of the business. That said, getting the tools to perform all the tasks on your checklist can get expensive when you’re just starting out. Luckily, leased or used vacuum truck equipment is affordable for entrepreneurs looking to expand their portable restroom rental business with maintenance and waste removal services. Below we’ve created a checklist to consider when purchasing used vacuum truck equipment and used vacuum trucks with gear included.
Things to consider before setting out to purchase a used vacuum truck and components
Use Requirements
Consider the day-to-day operations of your vacuum truck and equipment. If your business focuses on small-scale projects and the job demands aren’t as high as large-scale projects, you’ll have more wiggle room in your budget. On the other hand, if you’re using your truck full-time on weekdays and sometimes on weekends, you’ll want to invest more into your equipment and truck to ensure it’ll withstand the demands of your work schedule.
Truck Size and Tank Capacity
Consider what kind of tank capacity you’ll need to perform your tasks best. Vacuum trucks come with various-sized tanks, typically ranging from around 300 gallons to 2,150 gallons. Unless small-scale projects are your specialty, purchasing a small tank can pigeonhole you into only accepting small-scale projects. On the other hand, a large 2,150-gallon tank vacuum truck might stop you from accessing smaller job sites because the truck is too big to access the site. Like tank capacity, your truck’s size can help you accomplish various tasks or block you from accessing small roads to your rural residents. Smaller Slide-In tanks fit comfortably in the back of pick-up trucks, while large slide-in tanks require a flat bed.
Checklist for Buying Used Vacuum Truck Equipment
1. Learn Its Backstory
If purchasing a used vacuum truck with equipment included, research the history of the machine and equipment you’re buying and ask for vehicle data like mileage, usage history, and where the seller initially bought the truck. Additionally, ask questions like how old is the pump, and was it purchased new or used? Has the pump ever been rebuilt? Ask what the truck was used for and if there any replaced parts.
2. Get Maintenance History
Reputable resellers should have truck maintenance records and receipts detailing how often the seller got the truck serviced. You can ask if pumps or suction hoses ever broke down and had repairs. Sometimes equipment repairs aren’t obvious, so asking questions can help clarify doubts.
3. Test the Parts in True Settings
Do not rely on product images and someone’s word to discover any leaks, holes, rust, or damage. Test out the equipment vigorously to ensure the equipment’s ability to function on a long day at a worksite. To truly understand how used equipment will function on the job, ask the seller to test drive the parts in a true work setting.
4. Get It Inspected
Have a reputable mechanic or someone you trust inspect the used equipment before putting money down. While the seller likely had the used vacuum truck equipment inspected, it’s always best to seek a second opinion from a trusted source.
5. Stay Away From Unrealistic Pricing
If the price is too-good-to-be-true then, as the saying goes, it most likely is. If you find a deal that is significantly cheaper than a similar product you should inspect it for a defect or small issue that could reduce its longevity. If you come across a fantastic discount, ask the seller why the price is so low and gauge their response. If they’re tight-lipped about why it’s so cheap, odds are you’ll find out why within days of receiving your used equipment.
6. Lookup the Seller
Do some research by looking up the seller online before buying from them. Sometimes, you’ll find reviews or comments from others who’ve purchased from the seller. These online reviews can inform the transactional experience with the seller.
7. Ask Questions
The more questions you ask, the more you can gauge the seller’s responses. Ask questions to determine if you trust them, the product’s history, or if the used vacuum truck equipment is worth the price.
So, Should You Buy Used Vacuum Truck Equipment
If you’re searching for used vacuum truck equipment for sale, then perform the proper due diligence. Learn the equipment history, ask questions, get inspections and maintenance records, beware of deals that seem too good to be true, and research the seller to ensure you’re buying the best products at prices that are worth it in the long run. Contact Satellite Industries and speak with an expert in the portable sanitation industry today to buy the vacuum truck equipment you need to outperform your competitors.
Stay tuned for our next installment of Getting into the Portable Sanitation Industry, Top Things to Know where we cover how many portable restrooms you need to get started.