Why there’s no simple answer
Two trucks of the same make, model and year can be worth very different amounts. One might be a well-specced unit with a good history, and the other a tired ex-fleet truck with a rotten body. HGVs are built to order with different engines, gearboxes, cabs, axles and bodies, so the spec matters as much as the badge. That’s why online car-style valuation tools rarely give a useful figure for a truck.
The things that decide the price
- Make and model. Popular makes with good parts supply, such as DAF, Scania, Volvo, Mercedes-Benz and MAN, are always in demand.
- Age and Euro standard. Euro VI trucks can work anywhere in the UK, including London’s Low Emission Zone, while older trucks are often worth more abroad.
- Mileage. Important, but less than you’d think. Heavy trucks are built for high mileage, and service history matters more.
- Spec. Engine power, gearbox, axle layout, cab size and extras such as a retarder, wet kit or air conditioning.
- Body and equipment. A crane, a grab, a tail lift or a fridge unit can be worth thousands on its own.
- Condition. The cab, chassis corrosion, tyres and the body. Cosmetic marks matter less than structural problems.
- Paperwork and test. A V5C in your name, a current annual test and service records all help.
Why the Euro standard matters so much
Since 2014, new heavy trucks have had to meet Euro VI. In the UK that makes Euro VI trucks the default for most work, and older trucks face charges in London and several city Clean Air Zones. Abroad, older trucks are often preferred because they’re simpler to maintain. That’s why a Euro 5 truck can be worth more to a buyer with export customers than to a UK dealer. Our guide to the trucks export buyers want explains more.
The body can be worth more than the truck
For specialist trucks, the equipment drives the price. A grab lorry’s crane, a skip loader’s arms, a fridge unit or a tipper’s body and ram all need pricing on their own. Always tell a buyer exactly what’s fitted, and include photos of it.
How to get an accurate price
- Send clear photos of the whole truck, the cab, the dashboard and any damage
- Be upfront about faults. They’ll be found at inspection anyway, and honesty gets you a firmer first offer
- Have the registration, mileage and spec to hand
- Get more than one opinion if you like, but compare like with like, including fees and how quickly you’ll be paid
Our valuations are free. Send your details through the form and our buying team will come back to you with an offer. The final price is confirmed once we’ve inspected the truck.