Freightliner is one of the most popular truck brands that you can consider when you need to buy a new big rig to add to your fleet. However, like with any other truck manufacturer, you need to consider certain factors before you acquire a semi truck from Freightliner. This article lists down some of these factors that you need to think about before you go for any Freightliner model.
Your specific purpose in buying a big rig
One of the primary things you need to know before buying a Freightliner truck is the reason why you need to acquire one. For instance, you may need to buy a semi truck that can seamlessly cruise the highway. On the other hand, you may be after a semi truck with the capacity to carry heavy loads over long distances. The best Freightliner model that you should purchase depends on your specific needs because one that can seamlessly cruise over highways may not be able to carry heavy loads. Besides the purpose, you might also want to consider how you are going to hire a truck driver. Of course, you can take advantage of truck driver recruiting software like Tenstreet to get the right individual.
The features that you need
Another thing that you need to know before buying a Freightliner truck is the specific features that you need. This will largely be based on your purpose in buying a truck. For example, the features of a truck hauling heavy loads may differ from the features of a truck that is designed to navigate narrow roads. In the same way, the features of a day cab will largely be different from the main features of a sleeper.
The budget that you have
Finally, you should also have a good idea of the money that you can shell out to purchase a truck. Fortunately, when you explore online sources, you are most likely to find used Freightliner semi trucks for sale at a very reasonable cost. With a used big rig, you won’t have to pay a big sum upfront. Nevertheless, if you have an ample budget, you may be able to purchase a new Freightliner truck instead. In this way, you won’t have to be worried that much about significant maintenance costs in the future.
In addition to the upfront purchase price, it’s important to consider the ongoing operational costs, particularly fuel expenses. Fuel can be one of the largest costs when running a fleet, so fuel efficiency is a key factor in controlling your budget. Trucks that consume less fuel can save significant operational costs over time, especially for long-distance hauls. To further manage fuel expenses, tools like a trucker fuel card can be extremely beneficial. These cards offer discounts at various fuel stations, helping to greatly reduce fuel costs, which is essential for keeping your overall budget in check, particularly when managing a large fleet.
The Bottomline
When it comes to buying a Freightliner model, make sure that you have clearly identified your purpose in buying a truck. From there, you will be able to narrow down the non-negotiable features that you need to look for, balancing it out with the amount of money that you can spend. In doing so, you will be able to get the right truck that you can add to your fleet.
Driver comfort and ergonomics within the truck’s cab should be a top priority, especially for long-haul operations. A thoughtfully designed cab that features comfortable seating, ample storage space, and user-friendly controls can significantly enhance driver satisfaction, productivity, and overall well-being. One crucial aspect contributing to driver comfort is a well-functioning HVAC system. Companies like Shoreline Truck Parts offer products designed to help maintain an optimal cabin environment, like HVAC boxes for instance, which can play a role in reducing driver fatigue and discomfort. Additionally, when exploring truck options, it’s advisable to prioritize models that offer customizable interior features, ensuring that each driver has a tailored and functional workspace that meets their individual needs, ultimately fostering a safer and more productive driving experience.
Lastly, don’t forget about the after-sales support and service network. Freightliner has a robust network of service centers and dealerships, but it’s crucial to ensure that there is convenient access to maintenance and repair services in your operating area. Reliable after-sales support can minimize downtime and keep your trucks running smoothly, which is essential for maintaining your fleet’s efficiency and profitability.
