Semi Truck Buying Guide: Questions to Ask Before Investing in a Rig

Best Questions to Ask When Buying a Semi Truck

Questions: The Strategy

Dial in your lanes and spec choices before you shop.

• What technical specs do I need (engine/HP–torque, transmission, rear-axle ratio, wheelbase, suspension, brakes, tires)?
• Do I need a sleeper or day cab? How many nights out justify comfort upgrades or an APU/idle-reduction system?

Questions: Compliance & Paperwork

Lock down your filings and proofs before you plate up.

• If I run my own authority, do I have my USDOT/MC (URS), BOC-3, UCR, MCS-150 updates, IRP apportioned plates, and IFTA set up?
• Do I understand HVUT Form 2290 timing and the proof (Schedule-1) needed for registration?
• Will I need an ELD? Do I qualify for any HOS/ELD exemptions (short-haul, pre-2000 engine, ag)?
• As an owner-operator, am I registered in the Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse, with a query plan and C/TPA designated?

Questions: Financing & Cash Flow

• What down payment can I truly afford (and still keep a repair reserve)?
• What are lender age/mileage caps for collateral—and does the truck I’m eyeing fit them?
• What’s the all-in loan cost (rate, term, fees, prepayment penalties), not just the monthly?
• Do I have 30–45 days of working capital for fuel, tolls, and expenses before first invoices pay?

Questions: Insurance & Risk

• If leased on: what coverages are provided by the carrier vs. what I must buy (e.g., bobtail/N.T.L.)?
• If under my own authority: can I bind $1M liability and appropriate cargo quickly, and what filings are required?
• How will safety tech (collision mitigation, dash cams) affect premiums and shipper acceptance?

Questions: Spec to the Job (buying new or used)

• Does engine HP/torque, transmission (AMT/manual), and rear-axle ratio match my cruise speed, grades, and payload?
• 6×4 or 6×2? Do I understand the traction, tire-wear, and fuel-savings tradeoffs?
• Aero package vs. classic hood: have I quantified the MPG impact over my expected miles?
• Do I need PTO provision, heavy-haul cooling, double-frame, lift axle, or specific wheelbase for Bridge Formula?

Questions: Emissions, Regulations & Future Resale

• Which emissions package am I buying (DPF/SCR year), and is aftertreatment in good health with records?
• Will my lanes or resale market be affected by evolving EPA/CARB rules (e.g., ports/California timelines)?
• Is there remaining or purchasable aftertreatment/engine warranty?

Questions: Used-truck Diligence (non-negotiables)

• Can I see a full ECM report (true miles/hours, idle %, overspeeds, active/inactive faults, regen history)?
• Will the seller allow oil analysis (engine, transmission, differentials) before I sign?
• Have I checked VIN recall status and obtained a complete maintenance history (DPF cleanings, injector/turbo work, clutch, wheel ends)?
• Are there signs of structural issues (frame rail rust/pitting, cab mounts, crossmembers) or chronic alignment/suspension problems (irregular tire wear)?
• Is the title clean with lien releases, and is any odometer disclosure exemption properly documented?

Questions: Warranty & Support

• What’s covered (engine/aftertreatment/trans/diffs) and for how long/miles? Deductibles? Progressive damage?
• Is roadside assistance or a downtime allowance included? Where can I get warranty work done on the road?

Questions: Total Cost of Ownership (TCO)

• At my expected MPG, fuel price, and miles, what’s my cost-per-mile (CPM) today—and in a “fuel +25%” or “slow freight” scenario?
• What’s my monthly set-aside for PMs, tires, and surprise repairs? Do I have a target cents-per-mile reserve?
• Does an APU or idle-reduction system pencil out for my duty cycle?

Questions: Seller & Dealer Hygiene

• Why is the truck being sold, and can I speak with the prior fleet/owner or see dealer recon docs?
• What reconditioning is included before delivery (fresh PM, DPF service proof, brake/tire minimums)?
• Can I get a short warranty or buyer’s assurance period in writing (even from independents)?

Questions: Closing & Delivery Day

• Do all VINs match across cab plate, frame stamp, title, and bill of sale?
• Did I receive cab cards/IFTA decals (if applicable), insurance certificates, ELD device details, spare keys, and maintenance intervals?
• Have I scheduled a dyno/load test or at least a long road test to verify boost, temps, shifting, and regen behavior?

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