Many businesses require the use of a bucket truck, but when it comes to the decision of whether to buy new or used bucket trucks, you need to evaluate several points. Let’s review some key considerations when considering buying a new bucket truck versus a used bucket truck.

Considerations: Buy New or Buy a Used Bucket Truck?

Sometimes, buying a new piece of equipment is the right decision, but depending on the frequency of use, availability of good used equipment and ability to find parts, a used equipment may be the right decision.

When you buy new equipment, it comes backed with the manufacturer’s warranty. That assurance can be nice to have, in the event something needs repair. Considering the fact that you are buying an expensive item, you may want that assurance. Just remember, it comes at a much higher cost.

Most owners assume that new equipment reduces the need (frequency) of equipment repair.  However, a majority of all problems in new equipment are recognized within the first few months and at low mileage. A good used equipment item has already had the initial glitches worked out of it and if it has been maintained well, it can be in excellent working condition!  That used item offers you the chance to get a piece of equipment that will work and make your company money, at a reduced cost versus new equipment.

Many governing agencies and the equipment manufacturer instruct the owner on the frequency and nature of inspections as well as levels of maintenance required to own and operate the equipment. When a fleet follows those guidelines and then sells the equipment, a new owner can take advantage of knowing that the equipment was well maintained and may be ready to go right back to work for them.

Cost Savings is the key consideration when buying a used bucket truck. You can often buy one that is 7-10 years old at a cost of 50% or less compared to a new bucket truck. If you would like to have a warranty, then consider buying from a used bucket truck dealer. You can find good used items which may (like a new one) be sold with a warranty.

As the economy improves, demand for new equipment rises and availability declines.  You may have to wait over a year to receive a new bucket truck, if you order from the manufacturer. Consider your needs and the amount you want to invest in the equipment, and decide if a new bucket truck, a used bucket truck, or even a rental would be best for you. You have lots of options.

The Bottom Line

If saving money is a key goal – buy a used bucket truck or rent a unit.  If you want to consider buying a used unit, our auction process is open and transparent and our consignors offer units for sale every week, across the nation.  Let us help you get the most out of the auction on sale day – download our Buyer’s Guide for tips and answers to commonly asked questions. Have other questions? Contact us; we are glad to help.

Bidding at a construction equipment auction is usually done with a simple gesture – a nod, or wave of the hand or catalog.  When an auctioneer sees a person nodding or waving to a friend, their gesture could be interpreted as a bid. Personal expressions like those can result in mistakes, especially at public auction sales. Before you head out to the auction, consider some of the following things about the bidding process:

How to Bid at the Used Construction Equipment Auction

• Eye Contact- Keeping eye contact with the auctioneer will establish your identity with them. It is important that wherever a person is standing, whether in the front or far in the back, to catch the attention of the auctioneer so when the time comes to actually place your bid on a particular item, the auctioneer is aware of you and your desire to bid, and that the auctioneer is able to easily acknowledge your bid.
• Stay Connected – Once the event begins, and identity has been established with the bidder and the auctioneer or ringman (ringmen help the auctioneer accept bids from people the auctioneer cannot not see), it is important to maintain that connection. This way communication can continue by using a hand gesture or the raising of a bidding catalog; the auctioneer will return to bidder who have engaged with him, as bids increases. All that needs to be done is use that same gesture to place your bids.
• Bidding Timing – It is not always known when to enter a bid because placing an offer too late or too early can narrow the chances of winning. The best time to make an initial offer is about midway through used heavy construction equipment auction which allows adequate time to follow the process while deciding whether to quit or continue to pursue an item. In a situation where you have any doubt about purchasing a unit, it is best not to participate from the beginning, especially if a large number of participants are interested in that same item.
• Quitting Timing – Often participants feel pressure to continue bidding when an auctioneer keeps coming back to them and yet have reached a maximum budget. The best way to handle this is with a negative head shake and signal to the auctioneer of no longer wanting to participate and dropping out of bidding on that particular item.  When you reach your maximum bid about- stop bidding.
• Be Sharp – In almost every case, a quick decision must be made in this unique type of sales venue. Bidding moves at a very rapid pace and spontaneous decisions must be made. Knowing ahead of time the degree of interest in a particular item as well as the budget for such a purchase will tend to make a spontaneous bidding decision much more accurate. It is certain that the auctioneer is not going to stop the bidding process for an individual participant to make up their mind.

Considering these tips about the auction bidding process can help you have a fun and productive day at the auction. Keys to remember – be prepared and be sharp!

Want to Learn More About Bidding At Auctions?

Download our Buyer’s Guide for tips and suggestions, as well as answers to commonly asked questions. Feel free to contact us and we will help answer your questions. Bidding and buying the items in at J.J. Kane auctions is easy, and our auction process is open and transparent.  Let us help you get the most out of the auction on sale day.

When performing any types of aerial jobs such as trimming trees or painting building exteriors, the average worker must rely upon ladders or even ropes. Although the job could get done using this approach, it would certainly be very risky especially for falling. Thanks to the advent of equipment auctions, there is a much safer and faster way to get the project done – the used bucket truck.

Used Bucket Truck – Common Types

A bucket truck is a heavy-duty vehicle with a truck-based aerial lift designed to carry workers to heights ranging from 30 to 100 plus feet, depending on the equipment’s working height and capacity. The bucket truck is powered by either a gas or diesel engine, usually determined by the temperature where the vehicle will be primarily operated. Gas engines are normally used in colder climates because this type of fuel does not readily freeze.

The boom pedestal is usually situated either behind the cab or at the far end of the truck bed. These steel arms are mounted on a turret so the entire assembly can perform a 360 degree rotation which allows for easier positioning. The turret and boom are held together by joints to allow vertical movement and can be used to adjust the height as well as the angle of the arm. At the end of the boom is the bucket, which is a plastic container with a flat bottom and siding about waist high. It is designed to hold workers and prevent them from falling while working. Some of the boom truck arm variations include:

• Telescopic – The telescopic style bucket truck is the earliest and simplest design; its concept is to change length by sliding several sections in or out in a manner similar to a telescope. This design poses certain movement limitations because the point of horizontal movement is only at one joint near the turret, leaving a very limited range of motion.
• Articulated – The articulated design is much more common on newer lifts. The unique feature of this style is that the boom is usually divided into three foldable sections with each end connected by an articulated joint which gives an operator more control in positioning the equipment.

Optional Features

A used bucket truck can do many different kinds of tasks and there are many configurations available. Each manufacturer creates a design for certain applications. Following are some optional features available on these vehicles, whether purchased directly from a dealer or through an auction house featuring this kind of equipment.

• Material Handler – A material handler bucket truck has a feature allowing workers to lift materials up to the work area. A small jib is located beside the bucket and behind that is a powerful winch that is used to hoist loads from the ground such as tools and equipment. This feature is common on bucket trucks used by electric utility companies as well as in the construction industry.
• Insulation – Another optional feature is insulation which can help prevent the transmission of electric current should the boom touch a live wire; this can help protect a worker from electrocution, in conjunction with proper work and safety procedures. Insulation is required on trucks used by electricians and for trimming trees.
• Cab Guard – The cab guard is heavy-duty metal mesh that protects the cab roof and is most common on trucks used by arborists and foresters. The guard will protect the cab in case tree limbs or branches drop onto the vehicle, thus protecting any cab occupants.
• Double Bucket – A double bucket refers to a bucket that is designed to accommodate two workers at a time; a standard bucket is only designed for a single person. The double bucket is particularly useful for applications such as sign installation where two workers are needed at the same time to complete a task.

Used Bucket Truck Buying Considerations

When buying a bucket truck, whether purchased from a dealer or from an auction company, two important factors must be considered: working height and capacity. A boom cannot be too long or too short to handle the job; it must also have the correct weight capacity to lift a worker and necessary equipment into place. Additional features that may come in handy for a job should be considered as well.

A used bucket truck can make any aerial job fast and easy as well as a whole lot safer. Hopefully this article has provided some helpful information regarding this vehicle and its many variations and additional features! Download our Buyer’s Guide for tips and answers to frequently asked questions.

A live auction is the place where you can get great deals on many kinds of equipment, such as used bucket trucks, backhoes, skid steers, pickup trucks and more. In order to participate in a conventional, live auction, a bidder must be present at the exact place, date and time set forth by the auctioneer and bid live during the event. In our ever-demanding world, there are many circumstances when a buyer cannot attend a live, physical auction event. When that happens, there are some other ways to address the issue of needing to be in two places at the same time. Absentee bidding, telephone bidding, and online bidding are three possible solutions.

You Want to Buy Something, But Cannot Be At The Auction Location, In Person

• Absentee Bidding – In cases when an interested party cannot be physically present at the event and a phone call is not possible either, an absentee bid may be used as an alternative. Using this option, a participant indicates the highest amount willing to be paid for bucket trucks on a form provided to them by the auction company; this allows the auctioneer to act as their proxy and execute the bid. People bidding at an auction can easily decide to add a few dollars on top of that absentee bid to win the right to purchase the equipment.  One scenario where an absentee bid really makes sense is when there are some items that you’d like to have, but you just cannot stick around the auction all day waiting for the items to sell.  In that case, leaving absentee bids with the auctioneer is a great way to place your bids and perhaps get a deal. Sometimes, the items being sold last (at a live auction) end up being great buys, great deals! Let absentee bidding help you grab a deal on something you need to buy.
• Telephone Bidding – By choosing this option, a participant can bid in the live auction event without having to be physically present. A bidder may arrange to participate with a telephone bid, ahead of time. In most cases, there is no definite time that the call must be placed since the exact time to bid and length of time it takes for bucket trucks to be auctioned varies. A call may be made anywhere from an hour to just minutes before the auction begins to notify a participant that the event is beginning. So on the day of the event, a participant should be ready to take such a call at any time.  Bidding by phone is almost as good as being present at the auction. Compared to other absentee options, a purchaser has direct control over the increments of the bid and can choose to stop bidding once the amount exceeds a certain maximum amount. Another advantage is that the results are known as soon as bidding ceases.
• Live, Online Bidding via Internet – Many auction companies offer bidders the ability to bid live, online, while the auction event is going on. This service usually requires a bidder to sign up some time before the auction begins. Once registered, bidders can listen to the auction online and place bids from a remote location. With all the demands on our time, internet bidding is a very convenient feature, helping bidders who cannot attend in person connect with the items they need to buy.

Nothing Beats a Live Auction For the Potential to Grab a Deal

When attending a live auction on sale day is not possible, the options listed above are good ways to still be able to participate in the auction and buy the equipment you need. It is important to choose wisely; these options have advantages and disadvantages over the other. Bidding online or by phone keeps the bidder in the driver seat and allows you that chance to change your mind and increase your bid. Absentee bidding is static. Once you tell the auctioneer your maximum bid, the clerk simply bids for you and if bids exceed your maximum, you are out.

You have options, and purchasing a used bucket truck, backhoe, service truck or other items at public auction is a good way to save money and grab a deal. Our auction process is open and transparent.  Let us help you get the most out of the auction on sale day. Download our Buyer’s Guide for tips and answers to frequently asked questions. Have more questions? Contact us; we are glad to help you, and good luck at the auction!

A Message from our Founder…..

More than 20 years ago, J.J. Kane Auctioneers was started solely to support the needs of a growing family. At the time, the launch of J.J. Kane was a risk. The beginning was simple and was based on a foundation of family, strong values and relationships. This foundation set the stage for our business to grow and has proved to be the difference in our success. Our commitment to friends, family, and our team of dedicated employees along with our vendors and customers continues to this day.

My background in the auction business began with my work with the Vilsmeier Auction Company of Pennsylvania. There, I learned a great deal about the auction business as well as ethics and values. I also learned that the honest absolute auction is the best and only way to handle all aspects of a sale. This philosophy provides the best vehicle to take care of the customer every step of the way and is the cornerstone in how J.J. Kane operates each sale to this day.

Early in our development, our prospective customers began to take notice of our values, relationships, and philosophy towards the auction business. Companies including Consumers Energy of Michigan, Louisiana Power & Light, Arkansas Power & Light, Northern Indiana Public Service Company, New York State Electric & Gas, and Peoples Gas of Chicago, put their confidence in J.J. Kane Auctioneers and gave our business a boost when we needed it. Without these and other organizations, J.J. Kane would not be where it is today.

In 1998, Rusty Haag joined our organization which proved to be another difference maker in our evolution. From the very beginning, Rusty has been an invaluable asset to the organization. He helped to expand our business right away and take us to another level. The addition of Rusty and the expansion of our business in 1998 was one of the major stepping stones in the success of J.J. Kane and set the stage for the following year.

By 1999, J.J. Kane Auctioneers reached another milestone and gained Altec Industries, Inc. as a customer. Altec, a manufacturer of bucket trucks and other equipment for the electric utility, telecommunications, contractor, tree care, and lights and signs markets, did a lot of research to find the perfect auction company with the tools to provide a successful solution for their fleet reduction needs. They chose J.J. Kane based on their values and reputation of being the “Power Line Equipment Experts”. By Altec’s choice to make J.J. Kane their dedicated auction firm, J.J. Kane doubled in size in less than five years.

Over the years, J.J. Kane Auctioneer’s team of skilled, dedicated employees has continued to grow and is also one of the main drivers of our success. While it began with my wife Sharon and our kids, it has grown to include a number of key personnel including: Jack & Joy Kane, Colleen Naylor, Kim Minix, Steve Anderson, Bob Kane, Jane Zampino, Don Krapf, Michael Whitebread, Rich Ehmer, John Kane, Larry Haas, Brett & Lisa Hoffman, Mark and Dee Williams, Paul Moran, Dave Butler, and many more each passing year. J.J. Kane is everything because our staff and I cannot thank these people enough for their hard work and dedication. We would not be where we are today without them.

Sincerely,
Joe Kane

In today’s world, many types of vehicles and commercial equipment, like cars, trucks, SUVs and digger derricks and Bucket Trucks are being manufactured with hybrid vehicle technology, giving us hybrid bucket trucks! Massive engines are required to move the heavy chassis and are also used to drive a smaller hydraulic pump that powers on-board hydraulic equipment. Because of such a large power imbalance, manufacturers adopted hybrid technology for this equipment. New hybrid vehicles have a high initial cost for and it can be beneficial to attend an equipment auction to find used hybrid bucket trucks for sale.

Hybrid Bucket Trucks & Hybrid Technology

Hybrid technology found on heavy-duty equipment is much different from what is used on cars like the Toyota Prius. In cars, both the internal combustion engine and the electric motor alternately drive the transmission which in turn drives the wheels. The hybrid technology found on heavy-duty vehicles uses the same principle but with a much different arrangement.

A regular internal combustion engine still drives the transmission; however, the role of the electric motor is to drive the hydraulic pump whenever any hydraulic components such as the digger, boom and outriggers are being used. The main engine can also drive the hydraulic pump once the electric motor batteries are drained of power.

Advantages of Hybrid Vehicles

Below are some advantages of attending a vehicle and equipment auction and purchasing used hybrid bucket truck, with that technology:

• Fuel Efficiency – The main benefit of using hybrid technology is a reduction in fuel consumption. During operation, the main engine must maintain a preset RPM in order to drive the hydraulic pump and keep the installed equipment operational. Because the engine is massive, it requires a great deal of fuel just to drive the smaller hydraulic pump.  That may not an efficient use of energy. With a hybrid-equipped vehicle, the electric motor takes over the role of the engine when the installed equipment is in operation, resulting in a significant reduction in fuel consumption.
• Low Noise Emission – Noise from the engine is eliminated once the electric motor takes over during the equipments’ operation. Because electric motors barely produce any noise, the result is very quiet operation. Communication between workers is easier and safety at the work site is improved.
• Reduced Engine Emissions – Burning fuel inside an internal combustion engine produces noxious gases, such as carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxide. These gases are a major contributor to global warming; and when inhaled in large volumes, mental performance can be reduced. Since the engine does not need to run during installed equipment operation, engine emission is reduced.
• Longer Engine Life – When the engine is running, there is friction between moving components such as bearings, pistons and cylinder walls, valves, etc., which will eventually cause wear on the parts; however, electric motors have fewer moving components which provides a longer lifespan. By reducing the workload on an internal combustion engine, the lifespan of the main engine, itself, can be extended.

Hybrid technology is a significant improvement in the design of vehicles and heavy equipment, including the digger truck, cranes and other construction equipment. Hybrid technology addresses many of the problems associated with the standard vehicles for sale, such as: high operational costs due to poor fuel efficiency; engine emissions; noise; and frequent maintenance.

Hybrid Bucket Trucks are the way of the future, and public auctions are a great way to buy the equipment you need. Auctions offer an opportunity to buy at actual market value, because bidders set the values. Download our Buyer’s Guides for tips and answers to commonly asked questions, and contact us, if we can assist.

Buying from used bucket truck auctions may seem somewhat bewildering at times because bucket truck models have been designed for dozens of unique needs and there are a wide variety of makes and models. Manufacturers have designed many configurations, offering you many choices to pick from. Now all you need to do is decide which design and specifications are best for your needs.

Things to Consider – Buying a Used Bucket Truck

In an effort to narrow down options and make an educated decision, consider some things buyers to focus on, when purchasing a used bucket truck (sometimes referred to as a cherry picker).

• Engine – You have some choices; you can consider gasoline or diesel engines, and now even hybrid engines and compressed natural gas engines have entered the mix. The engine is a key factor because it determines the efficiency, operational costs, and temperature at which the vehicle can be used, as well as the overall cost of the vehicle. Now, more than ever, environmental and motor vehicle considerations affect equipment owners, so keep that in mind, too.  Diesel engines are initially more expensive than gasoline; however, they are also fuel-efficient, costing less to operate under most circumstances. It should be noted that when the equipment will be used in extremely cold climates a gasoline engine may be a better choice because gasoline is more resistant to freezing temperatures and operate across a wider range of environmental conditions.
• Boom – There are two primary boom designs from which to choose: telescopic and articulated. The major difference between the two is that an articulated boom is more maneuverable because it has several articulating joints. This feature is advantageous when working around obstacles such as tree branches or overhead signs.  The telescopic boom “slides out” telescoping an inner boom outwards.  A combination articulating and telescopic boom offers the widest range of working positions.
• Insulated vs. Non-Insulated – Choosing between an insulated and non-insulated bucket truck depends on how the equipment will be used. Basically, the insulated variety, with proper training and protocol, provides a measure of protection for the operator, in the event the equipment becomes energized. Unless the equipment will be exposed to electric lines, this feature may be unnecessary and could be an unnecessary expense.  Non-insulated booms are typically used in the telecommunications industry, working on phone and cable TV lines.
• Material-Handling vs. Personnel Only – Material-handling bucket trucks are equipped with a short jib and a winch at the boom tip to allow operators to connect to and lift material from the ground, winching them up to the bucket to be installed on buildings, power poles, etc.  Material-handling bucket trucks allow additional lifting capacity at the bucket, to compensate for the weight of items being lifted.  A common use might be to use the jib and winch to lift a transformer and position it on a power pole.   Personnel units only have a bucket, with no jib or winch, and are intended to simply lift personnel up to the work area.  Material-handlers cost more, so if you don’t need that option and lifting capacity, go with a personnel unit.
• Capacity – As an aerial work platform, bucket trucks (sometimes called cherry pickers) have a limited weight capacity. Overloading the platform could potentially damage the boom and cause the entire unit to tip over. When choosing the right capacity, consider whether the job can be carried out by one or two workers, since both single and two-person buckets can be purchased.  Also, knowing the weight of tools and materials required is important.  Many times workers will need a many pounds of capacity simply for the tools required to complete the aerial work. Consider the additional weight of the equipment needed on the platform and material-handling requirements, as well.
• Working Height – One of the most important considerations is the working height of the platform, which determines the maximum height at which work can safely be conducted. Since height requirements vary from job to job, it is important that the bucket truck have an appropriate height.

Purchasing a used bucket truck from an equipment auction does not have to be confusing. Knowing what to focus on and which things to look for can help you make an informed decision. Download our Buyer’s Guide for helpful tips and answers to frequently asked questions. Have questions for us? Contact us and we will be glad to discuss your options.

Regardless of how well bucket trucks are maintained, just like any other mechanical equipment they are subject to wear and tear simply from regular use. Knowing where to find used bucket truck parts is imperative. Many times, utility equipment auctions include parts, and may offer you a way to fill that need.

Know Where to Go For Bucket Truck Parts

With prolonged use, problems may begin to develop with some of the internal components of the engine: bearings may start to loosen; the clutch lining may start to slip; and the hydraulic system may develop leaks. from  may seem somewhat bewildering at times because bucket truck models have been designed for dozens of unique needs.  In order to keep a truck in safe working condition, maintenance must be consistently performed and most importantly, components that are on the verge of breaking must be replaced. Expenses for replacement parts can easily increase equipment maintenance costs. Thankfully, auctions can provide operators and contractors with quality replacement parts at relatively inexpensive prices.

• Problems – One of the biggest challenges in buying replacement parts is the high cost. While manufacturers do provide components for current model trucks, a genuine replacement part can be very expensive. In addition, it generally must be shipped from the manufacturer before the part can be installed, which may take days and cause repair delays.  With older bucket trucks, the problem is even worse. With this type of equipment, it is often hard to find replacement parts. As equipment ages, the supply of its components diminishes; eventually the manufacturer stops producing them which creates a shortage in the supply and an increase in the cost of the remaining stock.
• Advantages – A heavy equipment auction is an ideal place to find components for current and older equipment, including bucket trucks. While auction houses generally sell heavy duty equipment by itself, some also specialize in selling salvaged parts which are pieces that have been taken from other trucks that have already been decommissioned. Instead of completely scrapping the unit, some pieces are salvaged and sold individually.  The biggest advantage of buying from an auction is that the value of the item being sold is dictated by the buyers. So with the right approach and timing, used truck components can be purchased at a bargain price. In addition, the fact that surplus parts have already used some of their service life makes it an even more inexpensive option.   Another advantage of buying from an auction is that it is easy to find components for a wide range of trucks, whether the vehicle is a current or older model. While most of the salvaged parts come from older bucket trucks, there are also some parts that are from current model equipment that has been scrapped due to some type of total damage situation.
• Buying Tips – Since the salvaged components sold through auction are used, there is a possibility that they may not be in good working condition. Therefore, before bidding on any of these parts, the buyer should always verify the condition first. For metal components that are exposed to friction, measure the thickness of the part to ensure that it is still in the tolerable range. A buyer should run their fingers across the surface of the metal to see if there are grooves, which could be a sign of uneven wear. Look for signs of metal fatigue such as cracks, deformities, and color changes or variations.
• Avoid Reuse of Bucket Truck Parts That Are Exposed to Wear and Tear – It is unwise to consider purchasing consumable parts that are extensively exposed to wear and tear, such as brake pads, clutch linings, bearings, tires, etc. These parts wear out very easily and unlike other components, are best when purchased new.

An auction is an outstanding alternative source for low cost bucket truck parts, particularly for older model bucket trucks. Consider utility auctions as an option when you need “hard to find” replacement parts at a great price!
You have options, and purchasing a used bucket truck or manufacturer’s parts from auctions does not have to be confusing. Knowing what to focus on and which things to look for can help you make an informed decision. J.J. Kane Public Auctions connect you to parts and equipment you need. Download our Buyer’s Guide for tips and answers to commonly asked questions. Contact us and we will be glad to help you and discuss your options.

Many government (and private) owners have been incorporating hybrid cars, hybrid SUVs, alternate fuel vehicles and latest technologies into their fleets for years. Some of these used hybrid cars are for sale now, entering the secondary markets. You can find lots of used hybrid cars being resold as surplus when they are replaced by private and government fleets with new models.

Used Hybrid Cars – Overview

Alternate fuel vehicles have a long history, dating back to the first vehicle to run on ethanol, a Ford Model T, in 1908. Within the past decade, the use of alternate fuel vehicles (including hybrids) has exploded.

The Federal Energy Policy Act of 2005 (EPAct) requires that 70 percent of the vehicles used by metropolitan area government fleets be Alternate Fuel Vehicles. Examples of metro areas where you can find local surplus vehicles being sold to the public at auction are Portland, OR, West Palm Beach, FL, Rome, NY, Charlotte, NC, and Atlanta, GA.

State governments, such as Missouri, have incorporated larger hybrid vehicles into their fleets. Where there is heavier work to be done, you will find equipment items like cranes and bridge inspection units in use, mounted on International model 4300 Hybrid Trucks. Mechanical and service trucks are another truck-type more commonly seen as a hybrid.

Flex-fuel vehicles are the most prolific alternate fuel autos. Two or more fuel types can be used in the same combustion engine, with those fuel-types carried in a single fuel tank. Some of the most popular gas/electric hybrid vehicles are the Ford Escape, Toyota Prius and Honda Accord. The Chevy Silverado, Ford F150 Pickup Truck, Chevy Tahoe, Dodge Dakota, and Chevy Impala are examples of commonly used government fleet vehicles, with the flex-fuel option. Hybrid and alternate fuel vehicles are currently being replaced and are selling as government surplus, at auctions. They can be found for sale to second owners because they are beginning to retire from service in fleets that purchased them new during 2005 and 2006.

Worldwide, there are approximately 27 million flex-fuel vehicles in use.  Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), and Bio Diesel are the most popular fossil fuel sources for alternate fuel vehicles, of which there are roughly 28 million vehicles in service.

At this time, fleets selling their used hybrid cars and alternate fuel vehicles are typically 2007 – 2010 models, after operating them for an average of 7 years. Find a place you can kick the tires and inspect the autos. If you look, you can find a good used hybrid vehicle at a price price well below the cost of a new hybrid car.

If you would like to find surplus or used hybrid cars & SUVs, seek out a reputable auction company that represents the owners and resells vehicles. Find a place you can choose from different options, and make the buying process easy on yourself. You need the vehicle to help you conduct your business, so don’t waste your time and effort searching. Instead, go to the experts and find a variety of options to fit your need.

Good used hybrid cars are often available for sale from public auctions.  The general public can sometimes take advantage of auctions to make a purchase directly from the fleet owner, rather than pay dealer mark-up.  Good quality used hybrid cars can be a useful asset for your family or business, in these days of rising fuel costs.

Download our Buyer’s Guide for answers to commonly asked questions and some helpful tips. If you have questions, contact us.

Construction equipment is the life blood of the construction industry. Because heavy equipment can be an expensive investment it is worth your time to consider purchase options.  One good option is a construction equipment auction. The unique thing about this selling method is that each unit is sold based on market demand and price. Auctions offer the possibility of purchasing heavy equipment at a cost that could be lower than going market value.

Considerations

Because the construction equipment sold in this fashion is used, it requires a different approach than going to a dealership. There are three important things that should be considered in such situations: equipment condition, value, and parts availability.

• Condition – Construction equipment sold at auction is almost always used. Some may be relatively new, as in the case of fleet-owned vehicles, while others may have been used well. Although most auction companies have a policy of divulging actual condition of a vehicle prior to sale, there are problems that are not readily detectible, even by honest sellers, which is why it is important to first assess the condition of an item before making a bid. Some auctioneers employ a third party mechanic to evaluate and rate the quality of all machines sold; however, an inspection should still be performed by a professional mechanic for the best vehicle evaluation.
• Value – The value of equipment sold at an absolute auction is determined by the bidders, themselves. Those who are interested decide how much to pay for a certain unit and the highest bidder is able to purchase it. While this buying method may seem to rely on competition, a successful purchase is not about winning but about paying less than market value for the equipment. In order to decide how much to bid, it is important to determine that value.  The value of construction equipment is determined not only based on appearance, but also on the condition and wear observed on mechanical parts.
• Parts Availability – When buying used construction equipment it is important to consider its longevity and the accessibility of replacement parts. Avoid buying obsolete equipment that does not have alternative parts because it may lead to long down time if the machine fails. Be sure parts are locally available and that your local mechanic-vendors are capable of making repairs.

Public auctions offer a great alternative to buy used construction equipment because a public, absolute auction gives the buyer an opportunity to buy the equipment they need in an open and transparent process, direct from the current owners. In our auctions, the only parties involved in setting the price are the other bidders in the auction. Download our Buyer’s Guide for tips and answers to commonly asked questions. If you have additional questions, contact us. We are glad to help.