Category: bucket trucks

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.

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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
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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 [...]

Tree service companies rely on powerful, reliable equipment to perform demanding tasks like pruning, tree removal, and storm cleanup. Choosing the right truck directly impacts safety, efficiency, and service quality. With a range of specialized vehicles available, including used bucket trucks in WA, and forestry trucks, investing in the right tools can significantly boost your operation’s capabilities.

Bucket Trucks: The Tree Trimmer’s Essential

Bucket trucks are a staple for tree service professionals, allowing operators to reach heights safely and efficiently. These trucks come with hydraulic lifts and insulated or non-insulated buckets for various job types. Used bucket trucks are a cost-effective choice for smaller companies or startups looking to maintain professional standards without a large upfront investment. Brands like Altec are particularly trusted for their performance, durability, and ease of maintenance.

Altec Bucket Trucks: Built for Performance

Altec bucket trucks stand out due to their advanced engineering and proven field performance. Known for their smooth boom operation and enhanced [...]

When it comes to dependable aerial work, used Altec bucket trucks continue to be a go-to solution for utility companies, contractors, and arborists across the country. Combining proven durability with cost-effectiveness, these vehicles remain a smart investment for businesses that need to elevate operations—literally.

Proven Performance and Reliability

Altec has earned its place in the industry as a leading manufacturer of bucket trucks for aerial work. Even pre-owned, Altec bucket trucks are known for their solid construction and smooth hydraulic systems. Designed to endure years of demanding use, these trucks maintain high standards of safety and efficiency, making them ideal for tasks such as electrical line repair, tree trimming, and signage installation.

Cost Savings Without Compromising Quality

Opting for used bucket trucks provides significant savings over buying new. For small businesses or growing contractors, this allows access to high-performance equipment without the burden of large capital investments. Because Altec trucks retain their value and mechanical reliability, buyers often [...]