Buy Used Fleet Vehicles

If you haven’t taken a look at car prices recently you may be in for a shock. According to Kelly Blue Book, the average price of a new car in 2023 is nearly $50,000. As such, many car shoppers have found that the traditional approach of purchasing brand-new vehicles has lost some of its appeal. And buying from traditional used-car sources isn’t always much better in terms of cost. Fortunately, there’s an alternative: purchasing a used fleet vehicle.

Here, we’ll walk you through the advantages of buying a pre-owned fleet vehicle, as well as share a few tips on where you can find the best options.

What Is a Fleet Vehicle?

A fleet vehicle refers to a vehicle that is owned or leased by a company or other entity. Fleet vehicles are commonly used by businesses, government agencies, rental companies, delivery services, and transportation companies to support their operations. These vehicles can include cars, trucks, vans, or specialized vehicles tailored to specific industries or tasks.

In other words, a fleet vehicle is owned by an organization rather than an individual. But organizations need to ensure that the vehicles they depend on are well within their expected lifespan. This means that fleet managers will usually choose to sell off their fleets and replace them with new options long before anything starts to break down. For potential buyers, this represents an opportunity to buy vehicles in great condition, instead of ones that have already been (literally) driven into the ground.

Should I Buy a Used Fleet Vehicle?

If you’re in the market for a pre-owned vehicle, it’s important to weigh the advantages against any potential disadvantages. Let’s consider the pros and cons of buying a used fleet vehicle:

Pros

  • Cost-Effective
    As fleet vehicles have already absorbed a significant portion of their initial depreciation, buyers can potentially save a substantial amount of money while acquiring a reliable vehicle.
  • Well-Maintained and Serviced
    Unlike many personally-owned vehicles, fleet vehicles typically undergo regular maintenance and servicing as part of their operational requirements. This consistent care and upkeep contribute to the overall reliability and longevity of these vehicles, reducing the likelihood of encountering unexpected mechanical issues.
  • Known History
    Used fleet vehicles often provide access to comprehensive maintenance records. This transparency allows buyers to gain insights into the vehicle’s service history, previous repairs, and any potential problems the vehicle may have encountered.
  • Variety of Options
    Fleet vehicles encompass a wide range of vehicle types, including sedans, trucks, vans, and specialized vehicles. This variety offers buyers the flexibility to choose a vehicle that suits their specific needs — whether it’s for personal use, business operations, or anything else.

Cons

  • Higher Mileage
    Since fleet vehicles are actively used for business purposes, they tend to accumulate higher mileage compared to privately owned vehicles of the same age.
  • Cosmetic Wear
    Depending on the nature of their previous use, fleet vehicles may exhibit cosmetic wear, such as minor dings, scratches, or interior blemishes.
  • Limited Customization
    Fleet vehicles are typically standardized to meet the needs of the organization or industry they serve. This means that certain customizations or specific features that individual buyers may desire might not be present in used fleet vehicles.
  • Availability and Selection
    The availability of used fleet vehicles may be subject to market conditions and local inventory. Buyers may need to search for suitable options and be patient in finding the right vehicle that meets their needs.

Where to Buy Used Fleet Vehicles

Although they may not be as easy to find as used car lots, opportunities for buying used fleet vehicles are widely available. Here are some common sources to explore when searching for used fleet vehicles:

  • Auctions
    Auctions offer a prime opportunity to find a wide range of used fleet vehicles from different industries and organizations. These auctions can be conducted in-person or online, providing access to vehicles that have reached the end of their service life within fleet operations.
  • Rental Car Companies
    Rental car companies often refresh their fleets by selling their used vehicles to the public. Many companies have established programs that allow individuals to purchase their well-maintained, high-quality used rental vehicles. These vehicles are typically serviced regularly and come with detailed maintenance records, providing additional peace of mind.
  • Government Sources
    Government agencies at the federal, state, and local levels regularly replace their fleet vehicles, creating an opportunity for buyers to acquire reliable used vehicles. Government auctions, online marketplaces, and specialized websites dedicated to government surplus sales can be excellent sources for finding these vehicles. Keep an eye out for auctions conducted by agencies like the General Services Administration (GSA) in the United States or government fleet vehicle sales through platforms like GovDeals.

Companies that are well-known for their fleet vehicle sales include:

  • Enterprise
    Enterprise Car Sales specializes in selling used vehicles, including well-maintained fleet vehicles from their rental car fleet. They have numerous locations nationwide and a user-friendly website to browse and purchase vehicles.
  • com
    Cars.com is an online automotive marketplace connecting buyers and sellers across the United States. It features a robust inventory of used vehicles, including fleet vehicles from a range of businesses.
  • Copart
    Copart is a leading online vehicle auction platform that offers an extensive selection of used fleet vehicles. It allows buyers to participate in online auctions and provides detailed vehicle information and condition reports to assist in the decision-making process.
  • Manheim
    As one of the largest vehicle auction companies in the world, Manheim hosts regular auctions featuring used fleet vehicles. They have a vast network of auction locations and also offer online bidding, making it convenient for buyers to access their inventory.
  • Summit Fleet Truck Sales
    Summit Fleet Truck Sales specializes in selling pre-owned fleet vehicles, offering a range of commercial trucks, including pickups, vans, and utility vehicles, Summit Fleet Truck Sales caters to the needs of businesses and individuals alike, and can be invaluable if you’re interested in starting your own fleet.

Summit Fleet

Purchasing a used fleet vehicle presents a practical option for individuals and businesses alike. But buying may not always be the best way to go. For organizations that want the convenience of a vehicle fleet but would rather not have to worry about purchase and maintenance costs, fleet rentals are a tried-and-true alternative.

Fleet rental services from Summit Fleet handle all the legwork and upkeep, so you can concentrate on growing your business — and we’ll even deliver your rental to any location in the continental US. Learn more about the benefits of renting a fleet vehicle. Because after all, whether you’re buying or renting, you need a vehicle that can get the job done. Contact Summit Fleet today, and see just how effective — and cost-effective — fleet rental can be!