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Used Tow Truck for Sale GuideMechanic.Com For many towing operators, a used tow truck for sale represents the smartest way to expand a business without overspending.
While brand-new tow trucks can run well over $100,000, used trucks often cost a fraction of that price and still have years of service left.
Whether you’re a startup operator buying your first truck or a fleet manager adding to your lineup, used tow trucks remain one of the best values in the U.S. market.
Used Tow Truck for Sale
Why Buy a Used Tow Truck?
See Also: Heavy Duty Tow Truck for Sale
- Lower Upfront Cost – Save 30–60% compared to new trucks.
- Faster ROI – Lower investment means quicker profit recovery.
- Proven Reliability – Many used trucks are fleet-maintained with service records.
- Diverse Options – From light-duty wreckers to heavy-duty flatbeds.
- Flexibility – Easier to start small and scale up as your business grows.
Types of Used Tow Trucks Available
- Wrecker Tow Trucks (Hook & Chain or Wheel-Lift)
- Best for short-distance tows or repossessions.
- Affordable and easier to find used.
- Flatbed / Rollback Tow Trucks
- Safest and most versatile; preferred by roadside contracts.
- Used flatbeds are highly sought after.
Used Tow Truck for Sale
Integrated Tow Trucks
- Heavy-duty units combining boom and wheel-lift.
- Used for buses, semis, and large fleet work.
Price Guide: Used Tow Trucks for Sale (2025)
| Used Tow Truck Type | Price Range (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Used Light-Duty Wrecker | $15,000 – $30,000 | Ford F-350, Chevy 3500, Ram 4500; best for small jobs |
| Used Flatbed / Rollback | $25,000 – $55,000 | Freightliner, Hino, International; strong demand |
| Used Medium-Duty Wrecker | $35,000 – $70,000 | International DuraStar, Freightliner M2 |
| Used Heavy-Duty Wrecker | $60,000 – $120,000 | Kenworth, Peterbilt, Western Star |
| Auction / Private Sale Deals | $10,000 – $20,000 | Older trucks; expect higher mileage and some repairs |
Best Brands for Used Tow Trucks
- Ford & Chevy – Affordable, common light-duty trucks.
- Ram – Strong diesel engines, popular in small towing businesses.
- Freightliner – Most popular used rollback in the U.S.
- Hino – Efficient and reliable, especially for city towing.
- International – Mid-sized fleets often choose used Internationals.
- Kenworth & Peterbilt – High-end heavy-duty trucks with strong resale value.
Where to Find Used Tow Trucks
- Commercial Dealers – Many offer certified used trucks with warranties.
- Truck Auctions – Government and fleet auctions offer bargains.
- Online Platforms – Truck Paper, Commercial Truck Trader, Craigslist.
- Private Owners – Often sell at lower prices; check maintenance records.
- Tow Truck Builders – Some retrofit older chassis with new towing equipment.
Financing a Used Tow Truck
- One advantage of buying used is that financing is easier than most operators expect:
- Commercial Vehicle Loans – Banks and credit unions often finance used units up to 10 years old.
- Equipment Financing Companies – Specialized lenders cater to tow operators.
- Leasing Options – Some dealers allow lease-to-own programs.
- Owner Financing – In private sales, some sellers accept installment agreements.
Tip: Keep your credit score in good shape and prepare at least a 10–20% down payment for faster approval.
Maintenance Costs for Used Tow Trucks
While buying used saves money upfront, ongoing maintenance is key. On average:
- Oil & Filter Changes – $250–$400 every 7,500 miles.
- Tires – $1,200–$2,000 for a full set on medium-duty trucks.
- Hydraulic System Repairs – $1,000–$5,000 depending on damage.
- Transmission Overhaul – $4,000–$7,000 if needed.
- Winch Replacement – $1,500–$3,500 for new equipment.
When budgeting for a used tow truck, set aside $5,000–$10,000 annually for maintenance.
Regional Market Differences
The U.S. used tow truck market varies by state:
- Southern States (Texas, Florida, Georgia) – Lower prices due to larger supply and less rust.
- Northeast (New York, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts) – Trucks may have rust from winter salt exposure, but plenty of auction inventory.
- Midwest (Ohio, Michigan, Illinois) – Many repossession trucks available at affordable prices.
- West Coast (California, Washington) – Prices slightly higher; strong demand for eco-friendly diesel models.
Case Study: Independent Operator in Ohio
A small towing company in Columbus purchased a 2014 Ford F-550 wrecker with 195,000 miles for $24,500 from a private seller.
The truck had full service records and needed only minor tire replacements. Within six months, the truck had already paid for itself through local towing contracts.
This highlights how a used tow truck can quickly generate a positive return when bought wisely.
Future Trends in Used Tow Truck Market
- Electrification – Expect to see hybrid or electric tow trucks hitting the used market in the next 5 years.
- Telematics Integration – Many modern used trucks already feature GPS and fleet management systems.
- Growing Auction Supply – Insurance companies and large fleets cycle trucks faster, increasing used availability.
- Higher Demand for Rollbacks – As roadside contracts prioritize safety, used flatbeds and rollbacks are more valuable.
Used Tow Truck for Sale
Pros and Cons of Buying Used Tow Trucks
Pros:
- Lower cost of entry.
- Faster return on investment.
- Wide availability.
- Can be upgraded later with new equipment.
Cons:
- Shorter remaining lifespan.
- Higher repair risk.
- May lack modern safety and emission features.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the cheapest used tow truck I can buy?
A: Some auctions list older light-duty wreckers for $10k–$15k, but expect repairs.
Q: Is it better to buy from a dealer or private owner?
A: Dealers may offer warranties, while private owners often sell cheaper.
Q: How many miles is too many for a used tow truck?
A: 250,000+ miles can still be fine if well maintained, but condition matters most.
Q: Can I finance a used tow truck?
A: Yes, many lenders offer commercial vehicle financing even for used units.
Q: What’s the best first tow truck for a startup business?
A: A used Ford F-450/F-550 rollback is one of the best entry points due to versatility and parts availability.
Conclusion
A used tow truck for sale can be the perfect solution for operators who want to expand their business without breaking the bank.
From light-duty Ford wreckers under $30,000 to heavy-duty Peterbilts over $100,000, the U.S. market in 2025 is full of opportunities.
With smart shopping, thorough inspections, and clear business goals, buying used can give you a dependable workhorse at a fraction of the cost of new.
And as the industry evolves—with more eco-friendly models and advanced technology—savvy buyers will find even greater opportunities in the used market.
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