Buying used is a great way to get started as an independent owner-operator or to expand your existing fleet. Purchasing a rig with a few years and miles under its belt can save you money while still providing you with a reliable vehicle to build revenue for your business. If you've settled on finding a used Freightliner Cascadia, then these three tips will help you to find the right truck for your business.

1. Gather As Much Data As Possible

You should always ensure that you have a detailed maintenance history available whenever you buy a used truck. A well-maintained vehicle will last longer and cost less to maintain, and this is true at all stages of a truck's lifecycle. It may be tempting to skip this step if you are looking at low-mileage examples, but poor maintenance early in a vehicle's life can lead to costly repairs later.

In most cases, trucks that previously operated with large commercial fleets should have detailed service logs available. If not, speak with the dealer to determine as much about the vehicle's background as you can. Always hire a mechanic to perform a complete inspection before signing for any truck that does not have a full service history.

2. Consider Fuel-Efficient Models

Purchasing a used truck can save you money upfront, but it can also offer an opportunity to save money on your long-term operating costs. Choosing a used fuel-efficient model such as the Cascadia Evolution can allow you to add a highly efficient truck to your fleet for the same cost (or less) than a lower-end, less efficient model.

Of course, finding the right model of truck isn't always enough. If you're going for maximum fuel efficiency, be sure that any rigs you are considering also include optional features such as aerodynamic body packages. These relatively small modifications can have a significant impact on long-term fuel performance, especially at higher speeds.

3. Check For Common Problems

No truck is perfect, and even reliable engines such as the DD15 found on several Freightliner models can occasionally run into problems. Common problems on these motors (and many other diesel engines) include low oil pressure and oil leaks. In many cases, these are the result of easily fixable problems such as worn o-rings or failing gaskets.

If you are comfortable inspecting the vehicle yourself, then always check for apparent signs of leakage before purchasing. Otherwise, a thorough inspection by a skilled diesel mechanic should turn up any issues. Minor problems shouldn't deter you from buying an otherwise solid rig, but it's essential to find them before making any final decisions.

If you need helping selecting a new truck, contact a dealership like Arrow Truck Sales.