Category: bucket trucks

When you’re in the business of working above ground, you can’t afford to be grounded by your equipment budget. For many utility companies, telecom providers, and tree service businesses, that price tag doesn’t fly.

That’s why low-cost used bucket trucks in CA—specifically used ones—have become the go-to solution for companies looking to stay productive without draining capital. If aerial access is essential to your operations, buying used may be the smartest move you make this year.

Let’s break down exactly why.

Used Bucket Trucks Deliver the Height You Need—Without the High Price

Used bucket trucks aren’t just cheaper. They’re still built to reach the same heights—literally.

Whether you need to access 30 feet for residential tree trimming or over 60 feet for utility pole repairs, there are low-cost bucket trucks on the market with the specs to match. The lift capacity and vertical reach remain largely the same as new units—just without the steep depreciation.

In fact, trucks [...]

Hydro excavation is one of the safest, most precise ways to dig near underground utilities—but it comes at a price. Rates typically range from $375 to $475 per hour, which means any equipment-related savings can have a serious impact on your profitability. One of the smartest ways to conduct hydro-excavating on a budget without sacrificing performance is to invest in a used vacuum truck.

Depending on the truck’s age, brand, and condition, buying used can cut your upfront investment. That kind of savings doesn’t just help your bottom line—it accelerates your return on investment, shortens lead times, and gives you access to high-quality equipment that might otherwise be out of budget.

Let’s explore why used vacuum trucks make hydro-excavation more accessible, efficient, and profitable—especially for small businesses or growing fleets.

Why Hydro-Excavation Is Non-Negotiable for Modern Contractors

Let’s get something straight—hydro-excavation isn’t a luxury anymore. It’s a necessity.

Traditional digging methods with backhoes or manual shovels risk [...]

Keeping city streets clean isn’t just about appearances—it’s about safety, sanitation, and smart budgeting. Municipalities across the U.S. are under growing pressure to maintain cleaner streets while working within tighter budgets. That’s where used street sweepers step in as a cost-effective solution with proven results.

From California (CA) to Idaho (ID) and New Mexico (NM) to Pennsylvania (PA), public works departments are turning to high-quality used vacuum trucks and sweeper trucks to stretch every tax dollar without sacrificing performance. Whether it’s tackling urban grime, storm debris, or everyday street dust, these vehicles offer reliable service, lower upfront investment, and reduced long-term costs.

In this blog, we’ll explore how used street sweepers for municipal cleaning are helping cities clean smarter. Plus, we’ll look at popular units like parking lot sweeper trucks, vacuum trucks for sale in IL, WA, and GA, and what to look for when buying a sweeper truck for your city fleet.

Why Street Cleaning Matters for [...]

When it comes to utility line maintenance and tree care operations, the right equipment can make all the difference. For companies looking to expand their fleet without breaking the bank, pre-owned bucket trucks offer the perfect solution. These workhorses are essential for safely reaching elevated job sites—whether it’s trimming trees, repairing power lines, or servicing telecommunications infrastructure.

In fact, over 70% of utility companies rely on used bucket trucks to handle high-reach jobs efficiently and cost-effectively. Why? Because buying new isn’t always practical—especially for contractors, municipalities, or growing businesses trying to manage overhead. That’s where pre-owned bucket trucks come in. With the right dealer, these vehicles provide the performance, reliability, and safety features of a new unit—at a fraction of the cost.

From trusted brands like Altec and Versalift to rust-free trucks sourced from municipal fleets, there are countless advantages to going used. In this guide, we’ll explore why pre-owned bucket trucks are ideal for utility and arborist work, [...]

Not all trucks are built the same, and not all are legal for your job.

If you’re looking to buy a work truck, GVWR is one number you can’t afford to ignore. Yet, many buyers overlook it until it’s too late. That mistake can cost you thousands in fines, repairs, and lost productivity.

Overloading is one of the top five reasons trucks are placed out of service during roadside inspections. And the key to avoiding that? Understanding the GVWR truck meaning before you buy.

Let’s break it down so you can make the right call for your business.

What Does GVWR Mean?

GVWR stands for Gross Vehicle Weight Rating. It’s the maximum total weight a truck is rated to carry. That includes:

• The vehicle itself
• Fuel and fluids
• Passengers
• Cargo
• Attachments or equipment

This number is set by the manufacturer and can’t be changed. It’s usually listed on the driver-side door frame or VIN plate.

[...]

Utility fleet managers across the U.S. face the constant challenge of maintaining reliable and cost-effective service vehicles. When aging trucks need to be replaced, speed and dependability become crucial. Big Truck & Equipment has emerged as a go-to source for high-quality replacement vehicles tailored to utility industry demands. Their inventory is trusted not just for availability, but also for performance and longevity.

Quality Used Vacuum Trucks That Deliver

Vacuum trucks play a vital role in utility operations, from sewer line maintenance to excavation and spill cleanup. Big Truck & Equipment offers an extensive selection of used vacuum trucks that are thoroughly inspected and serviced to ensure they meet or exceed performance standards. Buying used allows utility companies to maximize their budget without compromising on power or capability.

Altec Bucket Trucks for Elevated Performance

For electrical line work, signage, or tree trimming, Altec bucket trucks are among the most trusted tools in the field. Big Truck & Equipment maintains [...]

When you invest in high-quality commercial vehicles like used vacuum trucks or Altec bucket trucks, ensuring smooth and secure delivery becomes a top priority. At Big Truck & Equipment, we’ve built a reputation for providing seamless truck delivery services across the nation—bringing our heavy-duty inventory straight to your site, wherever you are.

Hassle-Free Truck Delivery Services

Big Truck & Equipment makes it simple for businesses to receive their vehicles without traveling. Whether you’re ordering from another state or across the country, our truck delivery services are designed to be efficient, transparent, and secure. From inspection to loading and shipping, every step is handled by experienced professionals committed to customer satisfaction.

Nationwide Reach with Local-Level Attention

Our delivery network spans coast to coast, making it easy to order Altec bucket trucks or used vacuum trucks regardless of your location. We work with trusted logistics providers who specialize in heavy-duty transportation, ensuring that your truck arrives in excellent condition and on time. [...]

The sticker shock on new trucks isn’t going away anytime soon. A brand-new heavy-duty unit can run between $150,000 and $300,000, depending on the model and application. For many businesses, that’s not just expensive—it’s unsustainable. Businesses are now considering used heavy-duty equipment as their first option. Let’s find out why.

1. Immediate Cost Savings That Add Up

Let’s break it down. A new vacuum truck may cost over $250,000. A similar used vacuum truck, fully operational, may cost a lot less. Big Truck & Equipment Sales even offers used vacuum trucks starting from $70,000, depending on the model, etc.

 

2. Better Availability—No Factory Wait Times

Order a new truck today, and you could be waiting months for delivery, longer for custom builds. That delay can hurt growth or even cost you contracts.

Used heavy-duty trucks, on the other hand, are often ready for pickup or delivery within days. That’s a big win for companies needing [...]

Unexpected breakdowns don’t just cause delays—they eat into profit. And for businesses running used bucket trucks or used vacuum trucks, skipping truck preventive maintenance can lead to major safety issues and repair costs that could’ve been avoided.

So, let’s break down how often you should service your vacuum or bucket truck—and what to check every time.

Why Truck Preventive Maintenance Matters

These trucks aren’t average pickups. They carry weight, run power equipment, and work under pressure. Letting maintenance slide means:

• Shorter equipment life
• More downtime
• Increased fuel use
• Safety violations during DOT inspections

Routine service keeps trucks safer, more efficient, and job-ready.

How Often Should You Service Your Bucket Truck?

For used bucket trucks, keep a tight maintenance schedule. Here’s what that looks like:

Daily or Before Each Use:

• Check hydraulic fluid levels
• Inspect the bucket and boom for cracks or wear
• Test all controls (ground and bucket)
• Look for leaks around cylinders and hoses
[...]

If you’re in the market for a used commercial truck, you already know the stakes are high. New commercial trucks can cost anywhere from $80,000 to over $150,000, depending on the type and configuration. That’s a serious chunk of capital, especially for small and mid-sized businesses trying to grow without breaking the bank.

Buying used isn’t about taking chances. It’s about making smarter moves. If you’ve ever bought a lemon, you know the pain—unreliable performance, hidden maintenance issues, and downtime that costs more than the truck itself.

So, how do you know when a used truck is actually worth the money? Let’s break it down step by step.

1. Clear, Documented Maintenance History

The first sign of a smart buy? Records. You want a truck with a full, well-organized maintenance log. This should include:

• Regular oil changes
• Brake service
• Transmission checks
• Any major repairs or part replacements

A truck without records is a red [...]