Used trucks or trailers sources?

[BrassNinja]

I know the primary discussions center around all of these amazing groups and their artistry, or maybe some of the ups and downs of the circuits. But I’m not finding anything on equipment/transportation. I’m also finding only limited details on other social platforms. So I thought I’d see if anyone here has some sources or connections.

This year has been a particular challenge for us from a transportation POV. We have been renting for several years because it had simplified maintenance, etc, but that’s not starting to be outweighed by the deficiencies in our rental co.

Anyone have any suggestions or contacts that might be looking to trade out of gently loved trailers or box trucks? We typically use two 26’ w lift gates, or a semi / trailer w lift gate so we are starting to look at what it might take to get at least one owned vehicle/trailer.

Thanks in advance for any suggestions. Cheers!

[paddy]

Without knowing your location I can’t provide specific examples but here are resources I and people I know have used:

Semi-trailers: moving companies retire trailers that are well setup for bands. Multiple doors, belly compartments, and wall fixtures that allow for building interior shelving. In most metro areas there will be a trailer upfitter/refurbisher that can help you.

Semi tractors: frankly these are harder to come by and expensive. I wouldn’t buy one.

Straight trucks: Uhual, Ryder and Penske have websites where they sell used trucks. Also check with local landscapers, contractors, etc. these trucks last forever with a little TLC.

Utility/Cargo trailers: I would stay away from used on these. I don’t know many folks who’ve had success buying used unless it was from a dealer. You can get a nice 7’x16’ or 18’ for a reasonable price. Car haulers in the 8’x24’ or 26’ range aren’t bad either. These can be very economical IF you have a vehicle to pull it. At the risk of being condescending, if you don’t know towing get help with picking a trailer to fit the trucks you have available. I see too many bands rolling into contests with 26’ car haulers behind a Tahoe or F150 that is squatted down so hard the steer wheels are barely on the ground. That is a recipe for disaster.

[BrassNinja]

Thanks, you’ve hit some of my exact concerns. We did not have as good of fortune on a previous straight truck, but may be worth revisiting.

I’ll start doing some checking on some of the sources you mentioned. Appreciate the insights.

[paddy]

Oct 25, 2023 6:24:11 GMT -6 BrassNinja said:

Thanks, you’ve hit some of my exact concerns. We did not have as good of fortune on a previous straight truck, but may be worth revisiting.

I’ll start doing some checking on some of the sources you mentioned. Appreciate the insights.

If you have a good relationship with your school transportation department they might be willing to inspect a straight truck for you before purchase. The straight trucks and many school buses are on similar chassis and powertrains.