Category: Street Sweepers

According to reports, over 70% of all freight and heavy-duty work in the U.S. is done by trucks. However, when businesses turn to used heavy-duty trucks to cut costs, there’s a hidden risk: one faulty component can halt operations, drain budgets, and trigger safety issues.

Therefore, quality control isn’t optional. It’s the difference between a smart investment and a costly mistake. Here’s what to look for before you buy.

 

1. Service History Isn’t Just Paperwork — It’s Proof

A full, verifiable service record is your best indicator of how a truck has been treated. Trucks that skip routine maintenance often have hidden wear — from engine strain to failing suspension components. If a seller can’t provide a clean, detailed service log, that’s a red flag.

Pro Tip: Ask for oil change intervals, transmission service dates, and DPF cleaning logs. These are signs of regular care.

2. Frame Integrity: No Rust, No Cracks

The frame carries the [...]

City streets don’t clean themselves. And budgets don’t stretch forever. That’s exactly why more and more municipalities are turning to pre-owned sweepers as their first choice for keeping urban areas tidy. The need is simple: clean streets, clear storm drains, and better air quality—without draining city coffers.

Used sweepers for urban cleanup let cities maintain essential services and meet resident expectations, all while staying within budget. Let’s look at why these hardworking machines have become the go-to solution for local governments.

New Isn’t Always Better—Especially for Cities on Tight Budgets

A brand-new street sweeper can cost thousands of dollars. That’s a major chunk of any city’s public works budget.

But a used sweeper with low hours and proven performance can run at nearly half the price—without sacrificing functionality. For local governments, this isn’t just a cost-saving decision. It’s a way to allocate funds where they’re needed most—like stormwater management, road repair, or emergency response.

Using used [...]

Keeping streets clean isn’t a luxury. It’s a legal and public safety requirement. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, stormwater runoff is one of the leading causes of water pollution in urban areas—and street sweepers are the first line of defense. However, brand-new machines can be costly, making them inaccessible for many municipalities and contractors.

That’s why pre-owned street sweepers have become a smart solution for cities, facilities, and private operators alike. But not all used machines are created equal. Buying the wrong one can lead to mechanical headaches, poor performance, and unplanned costs.

If you’re planning to buy sweeper trucks for your fleet, this guide will help you choose the right street sweeper truck for sale—without wasting time or money.

What to Know Before You Buy a Pre-Owned Street Sweeper

Here’s what you need to check—from engine performance to broom wear—before investing in a pre-owned street sweeper truck.

1. Know Your Sweeper Type: Mechanical vs. Regenerative Air [...]

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, [...]

When it comes to expanding your fleet or upgrading your equipment, deciding whether to buy or lease commercial trucks can significantly impact your business’s bottom line. From financial flexibility to long-term value, each option has its advantages—especially when dealing with specialized vehicles like used vacuum trucks or street sweepers.

Ownership and Asset Value: The Case for Buying

Buying commercial trucks means full ownership. Over time, this translates into a long-term asset that adds value to your company. If you choose to buy street sweeper trucks or invest in used vacuum trucks, you have the flexibility to modify them as needed for specific tasks. Ownership allows you to build equity, which may help secure future financing.

Buying is often more cost-effective for businesses planning to use the trucks for several years. Once the loan is paid off, operating costs are reduced to maintenance and insurance, without monthly lease payments.

Leasing: Flexibility and Lower Upfront Costs

Leasing is ideal for [...]

Expanding operations can be a costly endeavor for small businesses, especially those in sectors like construction, sanitation, and logistics. Big Truck & Equipment makes it easier for small business owners to grow by offering affordable solutions through a wide inventory of quality vehicles. Whether you’re looking to buy sweeper trucks or invest in used vacuum trucks, this trusted supplier provides both cost-effectiveness and reliability.

Quality Used Vacuum Trucks to Boost Efficiency

Used vacuum trucks are essential for industries that deal with environmental cleanup, septic services, and industrial waste. Buying new can be financially overwhelming for a small business, which is why Big Truck & Equipment offers thoroughly inspected and serviced used vacuum trucks. These vehicles deliver the same functionality and durability at a fraction of the cost. With dependable performance and lower upfront investment, small companies can handle larger contracts and grow their service offerings.

Smart Way to Buy Sweeper Trucks

Municipalities and contractors often require sweepers for roads, [...]

When it comes to selecting the right vehicle for your fleet or business, choosing between gasoline and diesel trucks is a decision that impacts performance, fuel efficiency, and long-term costs. Whether you plan to buy sweeper trucks or explore options for used vacuum trucks, understanding the differences between gasoline and diesel powertrains is essential.

Performance and Power Considerations

Diesel engines are well-known for their torque and pulling power, making them ideal for heavy-duty tasks such as hauling equipment, towing, or operating powerful machinery. This makes diesel a natural choice for businesses dealing with industrial applications, including the use of used vacuum trucks or other utility vehicles. In contrast, gasoline trucks offer faster acceleration and smoother operation, which can be preferable for lighter workloads or frequent stop-and-go driving common in urban environments.

Fuel Efficiency and Costs

Fuel efficiency is another major factor. Diesel engines generally offer superior fuel economy over long distances, which is advantageous for companies with extensive [...]

Need heavy-duty work vehicles but don’t want to sink six figures into a brand-new fleet? For small businesses, contractors, and service providers, new commercial vehicles often come with heavy price tags.

U.S. municipalities retire vehicles based on age or policy, not performance. That means many trucks are replaced on a schedule, not because there’s anything wrong with them. Cities often sell them off through auctions or fleet resellers. The result? Lower-mileage vehicles that have been well-maintained, ready for a new life in private business.

If you’re trying to grow your operations without crushing overhead, these refurbished municipal trucks can deliver serious value.

 

1. Government-Maintained Means Consistent Service

Municipal vehicles are on strict schedules for oil changes, brake checks, inspections, and repairs. City fleets don’t cut corners—because public safety (and lawsuits) are on the line.

So, when you buy refurbished municipal trucks, you’re getting machines that were:

• Routinely serviced
• Logged and inspected regularly
• Maintained [...]

Purchasing pre-owned utility trucks can be a smart and cost-effective solution for businesses in industries such as construction, utilities, telecommunications, and environmental services. However, the process requires a careful approach to ensure you’re making a reliable and valuable investment. From evaluating the right vehicle type—like Altec bucket trucks or used vacuum trucks—to knowing where and how to shop, this guide covers essential tips to help you secure the best deal.

Understand Your Business Needs

Before diving into the market, clearly define your company’s operational needs. Utility trucks come in various forms and configurations, each suited for different tasks:

Altec Bucket Trucks: Built for Elevated Efficiency

Altec bucket trucks are a go-to solution for professionals who need safe and reliable access to elevated work zones. Equipped with extendable boom lifts and secure platform buckets, these trucks are specially engineered for tasks like electrical line servicing, telecommunication maintenance, streetlight installation, and tree trimming. The brand is known for its rugged build [...]