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Do You Want to Buy or Sell a Used Fire Truck?
Are you thinking about a used fire truck? Maybe you want to buy one. Maybe you want to sell one. You might ask, How much is a used fire truck worth? You are not alone. Finding the real used fire truck for sale price is not easy. There is no “Blue Book” for fire trucks like you have for cars.
Many people and groups need this information. A fire department may sell a fire truck to make room for new ones. A small volunteer fire department may want to buy a used pumper truck because it is cheaper than a new one. Some people even buy fire trucks for fun or work. They need clear prices and honest facts.
That is where this easy guide comes in. I will help you understand what makes a used fire truck valuable, what you should check, and how CLW GROUP can help you every step of the way.
Why Does the Price Change So Much?
Fire trucks are not like regular cars or trucks. Each one is special. Some come as a pumper truck, others are a ladder truck or a big tanker truck. Some are built by well-known brands like Pierce Manufacturing or Rosenbauer. Others are made by smaller firms.
Age matters. Older trucks usually cost less. But that is not the only thing. Mileage and engine hours also count. If a fire truck has high miles but only a little pump use, its value changes.
Condition is key. If a truck is well-kept, has little rust, and the engine and transmission work fine, it is worth more. If it has bad brakes, missing pieces, or broken compartments, it is worth less.
Maintenance records tell the story. Did someone take care of this fire truck? Did they fix things fast, or did they wait for big, costly repairs? A full logbook helps a lot.
Certifications add value. If a truck passes the NFPA 1901 standard at the time it was made, or if it has a pump test or aerial device certification, it will get a better price.
The fire apparatus type and what’s included also affect value. Trucks with good water tanks, strong pumps, working foam systems, or big aerial ladders cost more. Brand reputation makes a big difference. A truck from Seagrave Fire Apparatus or KME Fire Apparatus may bring a higher resale value than unknown brands.
Finally, where you buy or sell changes things. Prices go up and down based on place and time. For example, there’s more need in some areas, or some fire trucks are more suited for municipalities than private buyers.
What’s the Usual Price for Used Fire Trucks?
Let’s look at a simple table. These are guesses but show you what to expect for used fire apparatus like a custom pumper truck, aerial ladder, or tanker truck.
| Apparatus Type | Age (Years) | Condition | Value (USD) | Key Value Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Custom Pumper | 10-15 | Good | $70,000–$180,000+ | Low miles, service records, test ok |
| Custom Pumper | 15-25 | Fair | $25,000–$75,000 | Some wear, may need repairs |
| Custom Pumper | 25+ | Poor | $5,000–$20,000 | For parts or scrap |
| Aerial Ladder (75’+) | 15-20 | Good | $150,000–$400,000+ | Certified, well-kept |
| Aerial Ladder (75’+) | 20-30 | Fair | $50,000–$150,000 | Needs work, more hours |
| Tanker/Tender | 10-20 | Good | $40,000–$120,000 | Good tank, strong chassis |
| Rescue Truck | 15-25 | Good | $60,000–$180,000 | Solid body, working equipment |
| Brush Truck/Mini | 10-20 | Good | $20,000–$70,000 | Custom, can vary a lot |
These are just guide numbers. The resale value of used fire trucks changes with every truck.
How Do You Find The Right Value?
You want the best price. Here are the top ways you can estimate fire truck value:
Professional Appraisal
Call someone whose job is to check and estimate fire truck value. An appraiser looks at the engine, the body, the pump, past tests, and all the maintenance records. If your truck is rare, valuable, or you need to sell to another city or overseas, use a pro.
Compare Sales
Check fire apparatus online listings, government auctions, and dealer sites. Look for comparable used fire truck sales. What did trucks like yours sell for? That shows the average price used fire truck in the real world.
Ask Dealers
Contact a used fire truck dealer or check prices on a big fire apparatus marketplace. They know the market trends best.
Things You Must Check Before You Buy or Sell
Here is a handy list:
- Service History: Complete log books add value.
- Current Certifications: Test reports for pumps and ladders.
- Mechanical Issues: Fix engine, transmission, brakes, or suspension early.
- Looks Matter: Clean the truck, remove old stickers and signs.
- Equipment: See what comes with the sale. Some trucks are stripped.
- Dealers and Auctions: Both good and bad points. Pick what works for you.
Where Can You Buy or Sell Fire Trucks?
- Dealerships: Easy, but may cost more.
- Online Marketplaces: Find many used fire trucks for sale all in one place.
- Auctions: Fast sales but risky prices.
- Direct Sales: Sell to another fire department or buyer.
If you want a special fire truck, check out specail trucks factory for many options or talk with us about your needs.
Why Trust CLW GROUP?
Here is where CLW GROUP really helps. We are a professional automobile manufacturer. We do customized production, fast vehicle delivery, full after-sales, and great technical consulting services. Need a custom fire truck? Want strong maintenance records? We build and sell trucks that meet NFPA standards and pass all needed certifications.
If you want a new water tank truck or want to trade your used one, see our water tank truck inventory. Looking to sell or upgrade? We offer top appraisal and trade-in help.
We care about engine hours, chassis quality, pump condition, and every tiny part. No matter if you need a rescue truck, mini pumper, or even a semi tow truck, trust our semi truck towing solutions and support.
Want to move cars, goods, or help with big jobs? See our auto transport options. We meet every customer’s need, big or small.
Easy Recap: What You Need to Remember
- Used fire truck value depends on type, age, condition, and records.
- No two trucks are the same.
- Full service records and needed certification add value.
- Clean, working trucks with extras like a good pump or generator are worth more.
- Trust the experts at CLW GROUP for all your custom fire truck and vehicle needs.
Need More Help?
Ready to get started or just have a question? Visit our special trucks factory for expert help. We are ready to build, deliver, or buy your next fire apparatus. You get great value, custom service, and expert support every time!
References
- NFPA 1901: Standard for Automotive Fire Apparatus
- National Used Fire Truck Dealer Listings
- CLW GROUP Product Brochures
- Industry Auction Results 2023–2024
Contact CLW GROUP for the best advice on used fire truck prices and custom fire truck manufacturing services.
