Used truck prices and buying guide: How to get the best deal

Looking to buy a used truck? Get up-to-date pricing, finance rates from 7.5% p.a., inspection tips, and compliance requirements—all in one trusted, easy-to-follow guide.

Key takeaways: 

• Used truck prices in Australia typically range from $35,000 to $160,000+, depending on type, age, condition, brand, and mileage.
• Heavy-duty prime movers average between $80,000 and $160,000 for models less than 8 years old.
• Medium-duty rigid trucks range from $40,000 to $85,000, commonly used for local freight.
• Light-duty trucks start from $25,000 to $55,000, ideal for metro deliveries or trade use.
• Essential checks include service history, engine hours, oil leak signs, brake wear, gearbox condition, and rust inspections.
• Financing options such as chattel mortgages, low-doc loans and operating leases are widely available, with used truck finance rates from 7.49% p.a. (as of July 2025).
• Trucks over 4.5 tonnes GVM must meet NHVAS and PBS compliance if used commercially, check for certification.
• Buyers must obtain a valid Certificate of Inspection (COI) in some states (e.g. QLD) before the truck can be legally registered.
  

Introduction: Why buying a used truck in Australia makes sense

Australia’s commercial vehicle market is increasingly turning to used trucks for value, reliability, and faster delivery timelines. With new truck wait times exceeding 6–12 months in some categories due to global delays, buying used gives businesses a quicker and often more cost-effective option. Whether you're an owner-driver, fleet operator, or trades business, this guide is designed to help you navigate the used truck buying process confidently.

Types of used trucks available in Australia

Australia’s used truck market is broad and diverse. Below are the most common types of trucks sold second-hand:

1. Light-duty trucks (3.5–7.5 tonnes GVM)

• Uses: Local deliveries, trades, refrigerated transport
• Typical prices: $25,000–$55,000
• Fuel type: Diesel
• Common features: Automatic transmission, tail lifts, tipper options
  
  

2. Medium-duty trucks (7.5–16 tonnes GVM)

• Uses: Freight delivery, crane-mounted services, tow trucks
• Typical prices: $40,000–$85,000
• Fuel type: Diesel
• Check for: Air brakes, suspension condition, load capacity
  
  

3. Heavy-duty trucks (over 16 tonnes GVM)

• Uses: Linehaul freight, B-double transport, mining
• Typical prices: $80,000–$160,000+
• Transmission: Manual or automated manual transmission (AMT)
• Key focus: Engine condition, compliance certifications, diff wear
  

Price guide: Used truck pricing by category and condition

Understanding what you can expect to pay for different types of used trucks is essential to budgeting properly. Here's a breakdown by truck category and typical condition:

• Light-duty trucks
• Expect to pay between $25,000 and $40,000 for models that are 5 to 10 years old. These are typically used for local deliveries or trade use, often with lower kilometres and minimal heavy wear.
• Medium-duty trucks
• Prices generally range from $45,000 to $70,000 for trucks aged 3 to 8 years. These trucks often include crane attachments or tray bodies and are suitable for metro and regional freight tasks.
• Heavy-duty trucks
• For heavy-haul or long-distance transport, expect to spend $90,000 to $160,000 or more for trucks less than 10 years old. These vehicles are often linehaul-ready, built to Euro 5 or newer emissions standards, and may include sleeper cabs and advanced safety systems.

Operating cost considerations

When buying a used truck, the upfront price is just one part of the equation. Understanding ongoing operating costs is crucial to ensure your purchase remains financially sustainable. Here are the key factors Australian buyers should consider:

• Fuel consumption: 
• Older trucks generally consume more fuel due to less efficient engines and wear. For example, a heavy-duty prime mover built over 10 years ago can use up to 35% more diesel than a modern Euro 5 or 6 compliant model. Diesel prices in Australia currently average around $2.20 per litre (July 2025), so fuel efficiency can significantly impact your bottom line.
• Insurance premiums: 
• Insurance costs vary depending on truck type, usage, and value. On average, comprehensive insurance for a medium-duty used truck costs between $3,000 and $6,000 per year. Public liability and compulsory third-party (CTP) insurance requirements differ by state, so always confirm coverage needs with your insurer.
• Tyre maintenance and replacement: 
• Truck tyres typically last 80,000 to 120,000 kilometres, depending on load and road conditions. A single heavy-duty truck tyre can cost between $400 and $1,000. Budget for regular inspections and replacements to avoid downtime and safety risks.
• Road user charges (RUC) and tolls: 
• In most states, diesel-powered trucks pay RUC based on kilometres travelled, which adds to operational costs. For example, in NSW and Queensland, rates vary from 7 to 14 cents per kilometre depending on the truck’s gross vehicle mass. Additionally, toll roads in major metropolitan areas can add several hundred dollars monthly to your expenses if your routes include these.
• Scheduled servicing and repairs: 
• Maintenance intervals depend on truck make and model but typically range from every 15,000 to 30,000 kilometres. Annual servicing costs can range from $2,000 to $5,000 for medium to heavy trucks. Be prepared for occasional repairs such as brake overhauls, clutch replacements, or turbo servicing, which can cost thousands.
  
  

By factoring these operational costs into your budget, you can better assess the total cost of ownership and select a used truck that aligns with your business goals and cash flow requirements.

What to check when inspecting a used truck

1. Visual inspection

• Rust and corrosion around chassis rails, underbody and cab mounts
• Oil leaks under engine, diff housing, transmission
• Tyre wear pattern (uneven wear may indicate suspension issues)
• Brake pads and disc condition
  
  

2. Engine and drivetrain

• Engine starts easily without smoke or knocking
• No fault codes from ECM (use scanner if possible)
• Check for excessive exhaust smoke under load
• Gearbox changes smoothly under load
  
  

3. Cabin and electronics

• Air conditioning and heating fully functional
• Seats not collapsed or heavily worn
• Warning lights illuminate and extinguish as expected
• Check radio, lights, indicators, power windows
  
  

4. Service and compliance history

• Full logbook service records
• Any major part replacements? (e.g. clutch, turbo, injectors)
• Previous compliance plates and mods
  

Maintenance and parts considerations

Routine maintenance costs

• Light-duty: $1,500–$2,500 annually
• Medium-duty: $2,000–$4,000 annually
• Heavy-duty: $4,000–$8,000+ annually
  
  

Parts availability

• Parts for certain brands are widely stocked across Australia
• European brands may involve longer wait times or higher prices
• Consider sourcing from truck wreckers for savings on non-critical components

Used truck financing in Australia

Finance options

• Chattel mortgage: The most common loan type where the truck acts as security. Allows upfront GST claims and tax deductions, with ownership at loan end.
• Low-doc loans: Suitable for ABN holders with limited financials. Faster approval but usually higher interest rates.
• Truck leases: Spread payments over a term without owning the truck. Often off-balance sheet, helping manage cash flow and debt levels.
• Operating leases: Similar to leases but include maintenance in repayments. Offers flexibility without ownership responsibilities.
  
  

Typical loan features (July 2025)

• Interest rates: 7.49%–10.99% p.a., depending on lender and credit risk.
• Loan terms: 3–7 years, balancing repayments and total interest cost.
• Balloon payments: 10–30% optional residual at term end to reduce monthly repayments.
• Financing amount: Up to 100% of truck cost, including registration and stamp duty.
  
  

Key points

• GST can be claimed upfront on chattel mortgages, improving cash flow.
• Balloon payments help lower monthly costs but consider residual value risk.
• Comprehensive insurance is usually required by lenders.
• Choose financing based on whether you want ownership or flexibility.

Warranties on used trucks

While used trucks may fall outside manufacturer warranty, you can still get protection:

• Dealer statutory warranties apply for used trucks under 160,000 km and 10 years old (for licensed dealers)
• Extended mechanical breakdown insurance (MBI) can cover major systems, from $2,500/year
• Reputable dealers often offer 3–12 month in-house warranties

Compliance and certification: What to look for

• National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR):
• All commercial trucks over 4.5 tonnes GVM must comply with NHVAS (National Heavy Vehicle Accreditation Scheme) standards for maintenance and mass management to ensure safety and legal operation.
• PBS certification:
• For operators running longer or heavier truck combinations, look for Performance-Based Standards certification, which allows greater flexibility while meeting safety requirements.
• State-specific requirements:
• Queensland: Trucks require a valid Certificate of Inspection (COI) before they can be registered.
• Victoria, NSW, Western Australia: A Roadworthy Certificate (RWC) is mandatory when transferring registration to confirm the vehicle meets safety standards.
• Modification plates (Mod plates):
• If your truck has modifications—such as tipping bodies, crane fitouts, or specialised equipment—it must carry a mod plate to certify that these alterations comply with relevant regulations.
  

Common questions from used truck buyers in Australia

Q1: Is it worth buying a truck with over 500,000 km?

If the engine has been rebuilt or well-maintained, yes, many heavy-duty diesels exceed 1 million km. Ask for rebuild documentation and oil sample tests.

Q2: Should I buy from a dealer or private seller?

Dealers offer statutory warranties, finance options, and clear compliance, but may charge a premium. Private sellers are cheaper but offer fewer protections, always run a PPSR check.

Q3: How do I check for encumbrances or finance owing?

Use the Personal Property Securities Register (PPSR) at ppsr.gov.au. A search costs $2 and shows any financial claims on the vehicle.

Q4: Can I finance a truck if my business is new?

Yes, many lenders offer low-doc truck finance for ABN holders. You’ll need ID, bank statements, and ideally an asset as security.

Q5: What’s the resale value like?

Trucks with full-service history and low kilometres often retain 50–65% of value after 5 years.

Conclusion: Be smart, not rushed

Buying a used truck in Australia is a serious investment, but when done right, it can drive strong returns for your business. Focus on buying the right type of truck for your load, route, and business stage, and don’t skip the service history or compliance checks. With rising demand for reliable second-hand vehicles, smart buyers are acting quickly, but never without doing the right due diligence first.