Shopping for Cement Trucks for Sale: A Practical Guide

If you're looking for cement trucks for sale, you're probably starting a cementing service company, or expanding an existing one. Cement trucks are a big investment — a new one can cost $200,000 to $800,000 or more — so you want to make sure you're getting the right rig for your needs. Here's a practical buying guide to help you through the process.

New vs. Used: The Big Question

Buy New If: You're starting a new operation, you don't have a mechanic on staff, you need a warranty, or you want the latest technology. New cement trucks come with factory support, and you know exactly what you're getting. But they're expensive, and you lose 20-30% the second you take delivery.

Buy Used If: You have experience with cementing equipment, you have a good mechanic, you're on a tight budget, or you just need a truck that works. Used cement trucks can be 40-60% cheaper than new. But you have to do your homework. Bring an experienced cementing operator or a mechanic with you to inspect any used truck before you buy.

What to Check on a Used Cement Truck

When you're looking at a used cement truck, check these things:

- Pump condition: How many hours on the pumps? Are they worn? Do they leak? The pumps are the most expensive part of the truck, and they're the most important.
- Mixer condition: Does the mixer work properly? Are there worn parts?
- Engine hours: How many hours on the truck's engine? Engines are expensive to overhaul.
- Manifold and valves: Do all the valves work? Any leaks?
- Control system: Does the control panel work? Are the gauges accurate?
- Truck chassis: How many miles? Is it rusty? Does it start easily?
- Service records: Has the truck been maintained properly? Can you see the records?

What Size to Buy

What size cement truck should you buy? It depends on what kind of work you'll be doing:

- Small single-pump units: Good for shallow wells and small jobs. They're cheap and mobile, but they can't handle deep, high-pressure wells.
- Twin-pump units: The sweet spot. They can handle most onshore wells, and they have a backup pump. This is what most cementing service companies start with.
- Big high-pressure units: For deep, high-pressure wells. They're more expensive, but they're the only way to handle deep wells.

Don't buy more truck than you need. If you're mostly working on shallow wells, a small unit is enough. You can always upgrade later. But also don't buy a truck that's too small — you'll regret it when you get a big job and can't handle it.

FAQ

Q: How much should I expect to pay for a used cement truck?
A: A 5-10 year-old cement truck in good condition typically sells for $100,000 to $400,000. It depends on the size, the brand, the hours, and the condition. It's about 40-50% of the price of a new one.