10 Things to Consider When You Buy a Bucket Truck
Bucket trucks are essential equipment these days for a variety of industries. From exterior painting and window washing to construction, electric utility and telecom – the right bucket truck applied to the right kind of job can make all the difference between getting it done and getting it done efficiently, quickly and well within budget.
When considering a bucket truck, it’s important to look at the variety of brands available. Choosing from notable brands ensures access to industry-leading equipment, enhancing the reliability and value of your investment.
However, choosing the right bucket truck for your fleet or your business requires a careful analysis of your needs, expectations and the unique requirements of the jobs it is expected to perform.
This quick primer will help you think about your situation. You can then make a list of the equipment type you’ll need before you go shopping:
RESEARCH AND EVALUATION
When researching and evaluating bucket trucks for sale, it’s essential to consider several factors to ensure you find the right vehicle for your needs. Start by defining your requirements, including the type of bucket truck you need, its intended use, and your budget. You can use online auction platforms like IronPlanet or GovPlanet to browse a wide range of bucket trucks from various manufacturers, including Ford and Freightliner.
To get the most out of your search, consider using a saved search feature, which allows you to receive notifications when new items match your search criteria. You can also use the compare meter to watch and compare different bucket trucks, taking note of their features, prices, and locations. IronClad Assurance is a buying format that provides a guarantee of the item’s condition and authenticity, giving you peace of mind when making a purchase.
As a power user, you may need to manage your browser settings to prevent interruptions, such as disabling cookies or enabling JavaScript. If you’re using a third-party browser plugin, you may need to adjust its settings to regain access to the site. In some cases, you may be flagged as a bot and need to complete a CAPTCHA to immediately regain access.
When evaluating bucket trucks, consider factors such as the vehicle’s history, condition, and maintenance records. You can also use asset appraisal services to determine the value of the vehicle. Additionally, research the manufacturer’s commitment to innovation and operator safety, as well as their reputation for producing high-quality equipment.
By taking the time to research and evaluate bucket trucks, you can find the right vehicle for your needs and budget. Remember to stay organized, take notes, and use the resources available to you to make an informed decision. Whether you’re a fleet manager or an individual buyer, finding the right bucket truck can be a challenging task, but with the right approach, you can succeed.
# 1: INVOLVE THE RIGHT PEOPLE
The finance guy at your business may not be the best person to decide which bucket/boom truck you should buy. Costs aside, there are specs to consider. Personnel who handle this equipment on a day-to-day basis or have real world experience should be part of the decision-making process.
It’s also crucial to choose a provider committed to customer service and support.
# 2: KNOW YOUR NEEDS
Explore the kind of jobs you will use your new (or new-to-you) equipment for.
For example, how high will the aerial equipment need to reach? (If the job is at 50 feet but cannot be accessed from directly underneath, you will need a truck that is rated for greater working height than 50 feet because the further the equipment has to be positioned back, the more height allowance will be necessary.) Completing tasks effectively requires the right bucket truck.
# 3: ARTICULATED OR TELESCOPIC BUCKET TRUCKS?
An articulated boom/bucket truck has parts on joints that fold and bend easily. This affords a lot of extra maneuverability, especially indoors or in tight spaces where the equipment has to negotiate around a variety of obstacles.
Within the articulated category, there are things like Over Center and Non-Over Center to consider. An Over Center lift will allow the bucket to move beyond the center of the truck. This extends the side reach, a very useful feature for forestry and construction jobs. A Non-Over Center lift cannot move beyond the center of the truck and therefore is more restricted in its reach.
Unlike an Articulated bucket, a Telescopic one does not have jointed moving parts. Instead, it moves upwards and outwards. But what the Telescopic lacks in maneuverability, it makes up for in stability. So if the job is located at a great height, or the terrain is rough and rocky, or if heavy materials are being moved from one point to another, then the Telescopic will probably be a more efficient choice than an Articulated one.
There are dozens of configurations and options available for both articulated and telescopic bucket trucks, ensuring that you can find the perfect fit for any job requirement.
# 4: BODY TYPE
The body type you choose – steel, aluminum or fiberglass — will have a direct impact on factors like intended use, fuel efficiency and durability.
Additionally, it’s important to consider the location where the bucket truck will be used when choosing the body type.
# 5: WEIGHT CAPACITY OF BUCKET TRUCKS
- Most bucket trucks have a platform capacity that ranges between 400 lbs and 2,000 lbs. The higher the elevation afforded and the greater the side reach, the lesser you get by way of platform weight capacity.
# 6: CHASSIS
Besides regulation necessities, the type of chassis you select can affect things like platform height, material handling capacity, payload etc.
Choosing the right chassis is crucial for completing tasks effectively, ensuring you have the necessary resources to finish jobs successfully.
# 7: FUEL TYPE
Though diesel engines power most bucket trucks, some newer models are incorporating hybrid technology into their power systems. This allows the truck to run on diesel, while an electric motor powers the aerial functions.
Choosing a provider committed to environmental sustainability and efficiency is crucial for reducing the ecological footprint and operational costs.
# 8: TRANSMISSION
Bucket trucks employ both manual and automatic transmissions. Cost of operating the two is roughly the same, so the choice usually comes down to a matter of preference. However, a manual transmission does offer more control. On the other hand, an automatic transmission (which costs a little more) affords a smoother driving experience with less roll-back on inclines. Choosing a transmission type that enhances the user experience is crucial, much like ensuring smooth and efficient browsing on a website.
# 9: ACCESSORIES
Choice of accessories depends on the nature of the tasks a bucket truck is expected to perform. Tasks can largely be divided into three industries: telecom, forestry and general utilities.
Telecom: Wire dispenser, hotline jumper holder, air compressor, bucket step.
Forestry: Chainsaw scabbards, chainsaw boom, boom strap.
General Utilities: Toolbox, bucket cover, ground protection mat, wheel chock.
There are dozens of accessory options available to meet different industry needs.
# 10: CUSTOMIZATION IN ONLINE AUCTION
When it comes to bucket trucks, one size doesn’t fit all. If your must-have list of features has some special specifications, customization may be the most cost-effective option depending on the nature of the job you have at hand. Customizing bucket trucks to meet specific customer needs and industry standards is crucial to ensure they meet the demands of various industries.
CALL OR EMAIL US** IF YOU ARE INTRESTED IN A NEW OR USED BUCKET TRUCK FOR SALE!**
Custom Truck One Source* is the first true single-source provider of specialized truck and heavy equipment solutions. With sales, bucket truck rentals, aftermarket parts and service, equipment customization, remanufacturing, financing solutions, and asset disposal, our team of experts, vast equipment breadth and integrated network of locations across North America offer superior service and unmatched efficiency for our customers.*