Making the move from company driver to owner-operator is a huge step that's both exhilarating and overwhelming at the same time. But you can avoid some of the pitfalls and problems inherent in becoming a first-time truck buyer.

Take it from me-I recently went through it myself. My biggest challenge was realizing that I was not just buying a piece of equipment, I was investing in my own business. I knew I would need to make wise decisions, based on careful consideration of good research.

In figuring how much truck I could afford, I determined that buying used was the best way to go.

Among my reasons:

• Used trucks cost less than new ones (lower down payment, insurance, taxes, monthly truck payments, etc.).
• Improvements in truck technology and manufacturing have dramatically increased the life and reliability of today's trucks, making late model used trucks a good buy.
• Used trucks can be more readily sold than new ones should you decide after a period of time that the owner-operator life doesn't work for you. Conversely, if the life is a good fit, you'll have gained hands-on experience and have a better idea of what you ultimately want in a new rig.

There are many sources for used trucks: new truck dealerships' used truck departments; truck manufacturer used truck centers, such as the Freightliner's SelecTruck sales centers; independent used truck dealers; fleets and leasing and rental companies which sell off their own used equipment; auctions and private parties. The Internet (using search engines to explore nationwide used truck inventories) and trucks-for-sale publications can help you get an idea of available equipment and prices.

Regardless of where you choose to buy your used truck, I advise dealing with an organization that's been in business for a long time, has a solid reputation and offers a good selection of equipment that meets your needs, budget and haul requirements. I also looked for a salesperson that wanted to "partner" with me to help me become a successful owner-operator.

A Note of Caution

Keep your emotions out of the truck buying process. Buying a truck is exciting and that can frequently cloud one's good judgment. Each time I saw a shiny fully-decked out "large car," my heart rate would accelerate as I visualized myself behind the wheel. Impulsively, I would hear myself say: "I've got to have that one!"

Thankfully, the truck-priorities list in my hand (see list, next page) always brought me back to reality. "Get a grip!" I'd tell myself. "I'm starting a business and need to make well-reasoned decisions. Fancy paint, shiny accessories and lights don't make a truck run more efficiently or earn more money."

Realize that when you buy a used truck, you're purchasing a vehicle that was originally spec'd by someone else. You need to be flexible and able to make compromises. Find a truck that will meet your needs and preferences as close as possible without making any major modifications.

Modifications such as adding a sliding fifth wheel or an engine brake, for example, are relatively easy to do, and can increase the value of your truck when you go to sell or trade up; so will any performance or appearance modifications.

Get the Lowdown on the Background

Reviewing a used truck's maintenance records is invaluable. They provide an accurate history of the truck's preventive maintenance, service and repairs.

Many trucks have a computer history that will reveal exactly what components are in the truck and what modifications and repairs have been made through factory-approved repair facilities or under warranty. The serial number of the chassis, engine and major components are the beginning to any search through the manufacturer. Truck dealers can usually assist in this process.

If possible, visit with the truck's previous owner about how the vehicle was used and maintained. Ask a lot of questions. For example: What problems caused downtime? What was the truck's average fuel mileage? What were the servicing intervals? Why was the unit sold?

Get Hands-On

The next step is to perform a thorough inspection. I always brought along a pair of coveralls, work gloves and a flashlight so I could get up-close and personal with the truck. If you're not mechanically inclined, you may want to have a professional truck mechanic do the inspection.

I recommend conducting the examination during the daytime, as darkness may conceal problems. Don't do inspections in the rain because it may hide nicks and scratches and can make thin, worn paint look slick.

I found it useful to use a detailed, step-by-step checklist for inspecting both the interior and exterior of the truck. Most used truck sellers can provide such checklists.

An inspection is not really necessary if you're considering purchasing a truck that has been through one of the truck manufactures' used truck certification or reconditioning programs. These vehicles have already gone through thorough safety, mechanical and appearance inspections. All the necessary repairs have been made and the trucks are reconditioned to the programs' various certification levels and come with assorted warranties.

Get Behind the Wheel

If, after the inspection, you're still interested in the truck, do a test drive. Here again, a checklist-which used truck sellers can also provide-is key.

In general, see how the tractor feels, handles, responds and sounds. If possible, pull a loaded trailer on city streets and interstates, and up and down hills. Decide whether or not you can visualize yourself operating the truck for the next few years.

I used a mini tape recorder during my test drives to note any problems or concerns, as well as to record my thoughts and observations about the truck.These recordings, and the notes and comments I made on my inspection checklists, were a big help in comparing several trucks.

Another note of caution: Do not trust your memory. With the passage of time, and after looking at a number of trucks, it's difficult to remember the particulars of each.

Parting Advice

When you do decide upon a truck, have the salesperson do a walkaround to familiarize you with the vehicle. Have him point out the truck's various features and explain the function of each switch, control and gauge.

The walkaround is also the ideal time to have the salesperson explain the truck's maintenance requirements. The truck manufacturer can also provide such information.

Good maintenance practices are essential. Regularly scheduled preventive maintenance helps eliminate avoidable problems. I worked with my salesman to create a regular maintenance program and schedule, and I've kept to it. The best advice he gave me was to immediately start putting money aside for maintenance and repairs.

Don't be afraid to take up a salesperson's time and don't be concerned about asking too many questions. And finally, stay in control. Don't get talked into buying a truck you don't want, no matter what a bargain it might seem or because "this deal won't be there tomorrow."

How Much Truck?

Prior to truck shopping, I set my priorities for finding the appropriate truck. Great sources of information are owner-operators and company drivers with the company you are going to lease to. Truckers love "talking truck" and will readily offer a wealth of knowledge. Be sure to ask what they like and dislike about their trucks and why.

Among the equipment considerations you'll need to address:

• What will you be transporting?
• Where will you be operating; over what types of terrain and routes?
• Will you encounter any unusual operating conditions?
• Will you be hauling a variety of weight loads?
• Are there any company-required or special truck and equipment specifications, or any limitations on truck age and configuration?
• How many miles will you be trucking per year?
• What are your expectations for fuel economy? (Because fuel will be one of your largest operating expenses, look for a combination of adequate power and good fuel economy.)
• Do you have any powertrain preferences?
• Are there upgradeable components?
• Has the truck been well-maintained?
• Are there any remaining warranties and/or are warranties available? (A variety of used truck warranties are available from truck, engine and transmission manufacturers and aftermarket providers.)
• Is the truck comfortable?
• What features and components are must-haves and what are like-to-haves? (I wanted aluminum wheels all-around but settled for a better buy on a tractor with steel wheels on the duals.)

I found it helpful to write down the answers to these questions and carry them with me. That way, I didn't forget anything. Plus, it helped me stayed focused.