Choosing a Landscape Truck
Investing in a landscape truck can boost your productivity by making it easier to transport tools, equipment, and materials to and from job sites. But with so many different makes and models on the market, how do you find the right fit for your business? The following guide from Fyda Freightliner talks you through all the important questions to consider when choosing a landscape truck.
If you’re looking for more expert advice, feel free to ask the qualified staff at your nearest Fyda Freightliner location. We proudly serve those in Kentucky, Ohio, and Pennsylvania.
New Vs. Used
The first step in any vehicle purchase is to decide whether to buy new or used.
New landscape trucks come with all the latest features, and often provide better fuel economy, more comfortable seating, extra safety and security features, and higher towing capacity. Buying new also gives you the protection of a manufacturer’s warranty.
Meanwhile, used models can save you some serious money. The resale value of a landscape truck takes a steep dive after the initial purchase, so you can find plenty of used landscape trucks at great prices. You can also expect to recoup a much greater portion of your original investment when trading in a used model.
Take the time to perform a thorough maintenance inspection before you shake hands on purchasing a used landscape truck. Between hauling heavy loads and tackling rough terrain, these vehicles can wear down quickly. That said, a used model in good condition can still provide many years of faithful service.
Gas Vs. Diesel
It’s an age old question in the world of commercial trucks. Gas or diesel? Each fuel type has its advantages and disadvantages, so you will want to weigh your options carefully.
Diesel tends to be the more common choice among commercial drivers. Diesel trucks cost more, but offer more muscle, better mileage, and longer lifespans. Gas trucks are more affordable at the outset as well as being cheaper, faster, and easier to maintain due to the easy availability of parts.
Seating Options
Landscape trucks come with a variety of cab designs to accommodate different numbers of passengers. Flying solo? Go for a model with a compact cab and a design that prioritizes cargo space. Traveling with a work crew? Choose a model with enough seating for everyone, and a comfortable amount of leg room! Driving around all day in cramped quarters can take a toll on your joints, and no one wants to arrive at the job site already feeling sore from the journey.
Cargo Bed Size
Think about how much room you need for all your tools and equipment when choosing a size of cargo bed. You can even lay out your supplies in your garage or warehouse to get a more accurate measure. Keep in mind that trucks with larger beds come with higher price tags and greater fuel costs. Focus on determining the size you need, not on finding the largest option that fits within your budget.
Weight Limit
Last but not least, consider how much weight capacity you need. The combined weight of all the passengers, materials, tools, and equipment you want to transport should fit well within the weight limit of your landscape truck. Staying under that limit is essential to safety, so be sure to give yourself some leeway.
Ready to shop for landscape trucks in person? Head to your local Fyda Freightliner dealership. You can find us in Kentucky, Ohio, and Pennsylvania.