When you’re a small fleet owner or want to be an owner-operator, you should look at all sides before you decide to buy rather than lease a semi-truck.

Maybe you’re a recent trucking school graduate, and you want to own your truck rather than commit to a trucking firm. You will have more independence, and as a new truck driver, you could have more financial and personal freedom as an owner-operator.

However, buying a truck is not always an option for the recent graduate because they’ve been unemployed for a while, have less than perfect credit or both. Either of those could keep you from getting a loan to buy a truck, which typically costs double or triple a new car.

Do not let bad credit keep you out of the driver’s seat as an owner-operator. After looking over these advantages and drawbacks, talk to the friendly Bulldog Truck Sales professionals.

#1 Pro or Advantage — You Don’t Need Great Credit

As stated above, unemployed and owner-operators with bad credit usually can’t get a bank loan for a semi-truck. When you lease a previously owned semi from Bulldog, you have more options and a truck with a warranty.

#1 Con or Drawback — The Lease Framework Could Be Complicated

Be careful that you read the contract carefully and understand everything before signing. If you don’t understand anything, it could be worth it to hire a lawyer to read and explain how it works and if everything is legal.

It would be best if you were particularly careful when you lease-to-own from your trucking firm.

#2 Pro — You Will Eventually Own the Truck, Not Owned by the Trucking Firm

If you plan it right, make your payments on time and save whatever the cash-out will be at the end of the lease payment term, you can own the truck.

#2 Con — You Don’t Own the Truck Until It Is Paid

To many, that is only a technicality, but if you want to modify the engine or sleeper, you must have approval from the business leasing it to you or specified in the contract.

Once again, be sure to plan for the end of the lease so that you can buy it, renew the lease or lease another, though that might require another down payment.

#3 Pro — Reduced Maintenance Costs

Since your leased semi-truck has a warranty and usually some maintenance built into the lease, it could be cheaper.

#3 Con — Not All Built-In Maintenance Is Convenient

Just because the warranty or lease has an “escrow account” for maintenance, you might have to use a specific fleet repair company to take advantage of it. Another consideration might be a minimum expense to draw from the escrow account. If the minimum is $500 and the repair cost is $450, you might have to pay out-of-pocket.

Final Thoughts about Leasing

All things considered, if you plan it well, understand the lease, warranty and escrow account limits, leasing a truck from Bulldog Truck Sales could make you a proud, independent trucker in an excellent truck. Call Bulldog Truck Sales today to learn more.

Posted on behalf of Bulldog Truck Sales

When thinking about business ideas, a truck can open doors to new opportunities. Transporting goods and equipment covers a broad range of entrepreneurial startups. You could end up running a lucrative enterprise that provides essential services in your community.

Furniture Removal

People are always looking for an affordable and reliable moving service. A truck will allow you to build up your business and reputation. This type of business involves handling heavy and fragile items, so make sure you promote caution and keep your customers’ possessions safe.

Waste Removal

Due to the pandemic and more people staying at home, renovations and DIY projects are on the rise. This surge presents an opportunity for an enterprising individual. Waste removal is an ideal way to make money and build a successful business.

Event Management

If you have a flare for planning, organizing and implementing events, your skills may transfer to a business. Event management is now accessible to most people. This is due to the amount of competition in the industry. Besides leasing a truck, you may have to lease or buy equipment to facilitate event management.

Construction Equipment Transport

Construction specialists work to tight deadlines. The contractor really cannot spare the time to transport equipment from one site to another. This provides an opportunity for 3rd party contractors to provide a much-needed service by taking over the job of construction equipment transport.

Mobile Catering

There are various ways to build a successful mobile catering business. Linking up with event organizers is one path you could take. There are also opportunities to make money by providing lunch to employees in busy business hubs in your city.

Kids Party Entertainment Equipment

There is always a market for providing entertainment equipment for kids’ parties. Bouncy castles, inflatable play areas, game equipment, popcorn machines and anything else that will keep kids happy represents a profit on every job.

If you are facing issues trying to lease a suitable vehicle for your business idea, get in touch with Bulldog Truck Sales today. We provide affordable options for ambitious individuals just like you.

Posted on behalf of Bulldog Truck Sales

The world-renowned reality show, Storage Wars, documents the lives of thrift and pawn store owners who compete for abandoned treasures. Each unit costs upwards of a thousand dollars, with no guarantee that the bidder will make their money back. As a lucrative way to purchase resalable products, storage auctions have become popularized by the show.

When buyers do manage to secure a unit, transport plays an important role in the process. Many of the auctioneers who promote these sales put time limits on clearing a purchased unit. If treasure hunters do not have adequate transport, there is a good chance that some items will get left behind.

Cost-Effective Truck Lease

Storage hunters are thrifty by nature, which means that transport solutions must be cost-effective. The units involved in auctions are typically large in order to accommodate a large amount of home or business possessions. Hiring or owning a truck is therefore the best solution for those in this line of business.

The nature of the business also points toward store or individual traders preferring not to get tied into long lease contracts. Ideally, a truck lease should only last as long as it takes the proprietor to buy the vehicle outright. On the flip side, there are lots of gambles involved in the buying and selling of second-hand products, so a lease is actually preferable for many traders.

Low Cost, High Reward

Getting the most out of any deal is a cornerstone of the used goods industries. When leasing a truck, the things that matter to pawn shop owners include no hidden fees, right to buy, short-term lease and low monthly payments. There are several other conditions that these shrewd negotiators value – all of which are available from Bulldog Truck Sales.

Our commitment to customers is simple. We have created lease conditions that are geared toward affordability and assurances of quality service. When growing your business, our team wants to ensure that you have the power to transport all the products you buy and sell.

Call Bulldog Truck Sales today to learn more or begin your lease and purchasing journey from the comfort of your home.

Posted on behalf of Bulldog Truck Sales

Are you looking for an affordable semi-truck to enter the transport business as an independent operator? From our standpoint, there are three things you must consider while shopping for a semi-truck: that’s the truck, the sleeper and the payment. There are crucial offshoots from those three categories but if you compare those three items, you should come out with a truck you can live with and within.

The Truck

Whether you love the look of the exterior or not, if you get a truck with a strong engine that requires little maintenance, has excellent fuel efficiency and a solid warranty, its looks are not as essential to making a living with it.

In a recent popularity poll conducted by Drive My Way, in the article, 5 Best Semi Trucks for Truck Drivers, 32% of the respondents preferred Peterbilt, Freightliner 26%, Volvo 23% and Kenworth 19%. Although they asked CDL holders, this poll was open to the public, so some voters likely never rode in one of these trucks, let alone owned one. “Volvo has the best comfort — feels more like a home than a truck,” says Kenith Langley.

For most truck drivers, the best truck is either the one they are driving or the one they wish they could afford. Despite the poll, the article’s writer says Freightliner is #1, but states that the Peterbilt is the “Harley Davidson of the trucking world.”

American truckers are loyal to Freightliner, Peterbilt and Kenworth primarily, but you can’t go wrong with any of these (the Volvo is an excellent truck, more popular in Europe & Africa) with a robust engine, a great warranty and a proven maintenance track record. The folks at Bulldog will be happy to show you the maintenance records of the truck you choose.

At the end of the day, it will come down to personal preference and how comfortable you are in the sleeper.

The Sleeper

The sleeper must be comfortable and accommodating for you. The more creature comforts it has, the happier you’ll be spending time there while not behind the wheel.

The most-asked for options in the sleeper include:

• TV/monitor (most prefer a 32” screen)
• Kitchen sink & countertop
• A multiple burner stovetop
• A microwave
• A toilet and shower
• A table
• A comfortable & convertible couch/bed
• Storage/closet space

Bulldog Truck Sales has some of the best previously owned trucks with comfortable sleepers.

The Payment

This is really where the rubber meets the road. When you buy or lease a truck with a high payment, you might wind up losing it if you can’t make the payment. It’s essential to consider those rough times when loads are not plentiful.

Bulldog Truck Sales can put you in a fantastic truck of your choice, with a comfortable sleeper, a warranty on the engine and a payment you can afford. Talk to a Bulldog Truck Sales representative about a high-quality used truck to buy or lease.

Posted on behalf of Bulldog Truck Sales

When you’re considering a big rig or semi, whether it’s new or previously owned, consider these high points before making that massive investment.

First, consider, is it better to buy or lease? Unlike buying a personal vehicle, it is an investment. This truck is where you will spend the majority of your time over its lifetime. It’s your primary asset for a paycheck. Then, read the contract thoroughly. If you have questions, ask them.

What Are the Benefits of Leasing over Buying?

Flexibility is the crucial benefit of leasing over buying. If you’re a small fleet owner, leasing two or three previously owned trucks gives you more bang for your buck. You can put three trucks loaded with cargo out there on the road rather than just one you had to pay a lot more for than previously owned. That’s the kind of flexibility worth considering.

If you’re an owner-operator, leasing gives you the flexibility of getting out from under a truck you’re not happy with after two or three years rather than owning it.

If you’re an established trucker who has a substantial down payment (about 25%) and excellent credit, owning a new truck will undoubtedly be a lot cheaper in the long run. Plus, every payment is like a mortgage payment, and you build equity in the truck.

Then, once it’s paid off, it’s yours. No more payments until it has to be replaced. That can be a great feeling. Hopefully, that is at least ten years after it is paid off.

However, you could do the same with a lease-to-own from Bulldog Truck Sales. Although, you won’t need excellent credit or a massive down payment. Bulldog has many used late model, brand name trucks to choose from with sleepers and options that will make your life on the road more comfortable. This is often a much better choice, with less hassle than leasing from the fleet you drive for, which has many drawbacks.

You can read more about that in our blog, Should You Lease a Tractor-Trailer to Become an Owner-Operator.

Read Your Contract Carefully & Understand It Fully

Too many drivers focus only on new trucks. Buying a slightly used truck gives you a much better choice of options and affordability. However, in most cases, you need to know your warranty.

Bulldog Truck Sales provides a one-year warranty on the engine of your big rig. That’s nearly unheard of when buying a used semi. That warranty provides the buyer unparalleled peace-of-mind because most other repairs on a big rig are minor compared to engine parts and replacement. Talk to Bulldog Truck Sales today about leasing or buying a high-quality previously owned semi.

Posted on behalf of Bulldog Truck Sales

Until you have taken a long-haul trip in a truck, it’s hard to imagine the potential levels of discomfort. These journeys are not for everybody, so making life as easy and comfortable as possible is a must.

A heavy goods vehicle is your home while you are on the road. Most drivers do not have the luxury of staying in a nice hotel or motel overnight. If this sounds like your typical working week, it’s time to consider basic comforts.

Sitting Comfortably

The driver’s seat is where you will spend the vast majority of your time, so that is where the comfort concern primarily lies. The seat itself is important, but you should also consider investing in a cushion that is designed for long-haul travel.

Orthopedic cushions are ergonomically designed to support the joints and healthy blood circulation. If you are experiencing extreme discomfort, it could lead to more serious health concerns. Any symptoms that persist when not behind the wheel should be brought to the attention of your doctor.

Sleep Like a Baby

No matter how long your journey or deadlines, driving without a break is not recommended. When you have to sleep, rest is essential. Poor sleep can leave you tired and a danger behind the wheel. Plus, regulations require a period of mandated rest after driving a certain number of hours.

A sleepover in a fancy hotel would be ideal but for most truck drivers, a built-in sleeper is the only realistic option. Before you lease a truck, make sure that the sleeper has enough space and will provide a comfortable space to rest.

Food Storage

If you are cutting it fine on a deadline and can’t afford to take time out for a sit-down meal, food storage would help ensure you do not miss out on vital nutrition. A small built-in refrigeration compartment is therefore a lifesaver for truck drivers.

Alternatively, you can bring a cooler on the road if there is adequate space on the truck. The secret to staying healthy on the road is getting enough food, water and rest – all of which can be achieved with the right living space.

If you are interested in leasing a new truck that is affordable on your budget, Bulldog Truck Sales has solutions. Call today for further information – even if you have bad credit.

Posted on behalf of Bulldog Truck Sales

When you start up a company that relies on trucks to succeed, seeing your operations halt due to leasing problems is a nightmare. Transportation of goods is an important function of most industries. If your business has a brand or customer promise ethos, you may decide to run your own fleet. Bulldog Truck Sales is here to offer support.

We are committed to providing leases on trucks that are affordable. Your company will never grow without working relationships with vendors and suppliers. Late model trucks allow us to provide you with the tools you need to take your products and services on the road. Is bad credit holding back the growth of your company? Reach out to our team for solutions.

Business Expansion

There is a golden rule when it comes to business expansion. You need to give all your processes a boost. There is no merit in meeting production quotas for a product if your customers can’t benefit from the end result. For many companies in and around Georgia, Bulldog Truck Sales bridges that gap.

Think about how much further you can go with trucks that are affordable and functional. Customers will flock to your company when they know that your products and services are reliable. In an age where online ordering is becoming the default, you can’t afford to get left behind. The alternative is watching competitors monopolize all the demographics that your company should be servicing.

Truck Sales Customer Service Excellence

Our trucks are top-of-the-line, but we have so much more to offer besides quality products. Our customer service is exceptional because we promote excellence. Every interaction you have with Bulldog Truck Sales delivers positive outcomes. We are committed to ensuring customers have a stress-free experience.

The smooth running of your business is important to our company and team. From the start of the truck lease process to the end, you are guaranteed to receive the best customer service you have ever received. We are here to serve businesses that rely on trucks in a manner that won’t bankrupt the business. Affordability is a core principle of all that we do at Bulldog Truck Sales.

To learn more about affordable truck leasing in Georgia, call Bulldog Truck Sales today. We look forward to working with you and your company to provide solutions that work.

Posted on behalf of Bulldog Truck Sales

If you ask 100 truckers that question, you will likely get 85 to 90 sob stories about why you shouldn’t.

The fact is that many of those professional drivers got into a lease operator agreement with their employer. They had no idea about the legal entrapments written into the contract, and even some that weren’t. They soon wound up as what most would consider an indentured slave to the trucking firm they trusted to help them own their first truck.

And sometimes, the truck they get from the trucking firm is not the truck they were driving. They get a mechanical mess the firm wanted to get rid of because the maintenance costs were more than the truck could earn if still in active service.

There Is a World of Difference Between Leasing a Truck & Being a Leased Truck Operator for a Trucking Firm

Once you take the lease from the company and become a leased truck operator, you’re not really an owner-operator. But you’ll no longer get the choice hauls from the firm.

They might tell you nothing changes, but why would they give you the best paying loads as a lease operator over a company driver? They won’t, plain and simple.

A Credible Alternative from Bulldog Truck Sales

First, you’ll have your choice of great trucks. This option can make all the difference in the world. You want a truck that will be your home while you’re on the road, so the truck’s sleeper is as essential as its maintenance record.

Second, Bulldog knows most truckers cannot afford to lease a new truck with a significant down payment that will stretch their finances. They also know a truck with upcoming repairs is out of the question. That’s why they keep a large selection of well-maintained used trucks with sleepers that will keep you comfortable while taking your breaks and sleep time.

If you want to become a real owner-operator, talk to Bulldog Truck Sales about a high-quality used truck to lease or buy.

Posted on behalf of Bulldog Truck Sales

Whether you have leased your truck or bought it, the best way to ensure that you get the most out of your investment is by taking care of it. There is absolutely no reason to carve out so much money for something if you will let it go to pieces and become a wasted investment. The best way to keep your rig clean is to wash it thoroughly and regularly. While, admittedly, this is a big job, when you think of the time and money you are investing in your career – it’s worth it. So get over the excuses, and get to work. At least the weather is now nice here in Georgia, so your excuses will fall on deaf ears!

There are very few things you need to keep your rig clean and in top shape. Here’s the list of necessities:

• Quality Automotive Soap – Rather than reaching for the dish soap that’s underneath your kitchen sink, a good quality automotive soap will be easier on the paint and do a better job of removing dirt and grime that collects from long hours on the roads.
• Soft Natural Fiber Wash Mitt – This wash mitt will allow you to clean the nooks and crannies all over your rig. You can put your hand into pretty tight spaces with a mitt on, so you can clean even the hardest to reach spots.
• An Extended Brush – These brushes with extended handles are great for reaching high spots on your truck.
• A Ladder – Speaking of reaching high spots, the use of a ladder will benefit you greatly.
• Soft Chamois Cloth – While it may seem like a lot of work, drying your truck by hand will not only help your truck to look better, but it will help to ensure that excess water does not remain in places where you don’t want it.
• Wax – Spending just a little bit extra on a higher quality wax will go a long way in protecting your rig’s paint. Hot weather, beating sun, ice, snow, and salt on the roadways can really take their toll on your paint job. A good coat of wax will go a long way to protect your investment.
• Elbow Grease – You’ll need to put forth some effort for good results.

Keeping your rig looking good not only safeguards your investment and makes you look good, but it may also help you slide through the occasional DOT inspection. Just sayin’. Your rig is a huge investment that is meant to bring in money. With a bit of work and elbow grease every so often, you can keep your rig clean and look like a professional.

Posted on behalf of Bulldog Truck Sales

International Roadcheck is a CVSA program with participation by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, the Canadian Council of Motor Transport Administrators, Transport Canada, and Mexico’s Ministry of Communications and Transportation and its National Guard.

Running from May 4-6, 2021, this year’s International Roadcheck will focus on the top vehicle maintenance and driver violations from 2020. The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) will deploy inspectors across North America to conduct inspections on commercial motor vehicles and drivers to ensure they meet vehicle maintenance and driver readiness standards as part of the annual inspection program.

In the fiscal year 2020, vehicle lighting and hours-of-service compliance were the top violations. Although inspectors will inspect the entire vehicle, there will be a focus on lighting and hours-of-service during Roadcheck 2021. Each year, CVSA chooses a focus for capturing and reporting data on a specific category of violations. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, in 2020, inoperable lamps was the No. 1 violation, accounting for 12% of all vehicle violations. Knowing this, truckers need to put intentionality into making sure their lamps are operating at full capacity and that you have a backup in case something goes wrong.

As part of the Roadcheck, inspectors will also look at:

• Vehicle’s brake systems
• Cargo securement
• Coupling devices
• Driveline/driveshaft components
• Driver’s seat
• Exhaust systems
• Frames
• Fuel systems
• Lighting devices
• Steering mechanisms
• Suspensions
• Tires
• Van and open-top trailer bodies
• Wheels
• Rims
• Hubs
• Windshield wipers

If violations are found outlined in the North American Standard Out-of-Service Criteria, the vehicle will be placed out of service. This means that the vehicle cannot be operated until all identified out-of-service conditions have been corrected. Vehicles that pass a Level I or Level V inspection during the Roadcheck blitz will receive a CVSA decal.

With April here, you are just weeks away from being stopped in the Roadcheck Blitz of 2021. Take the time now to ensure that your rig is safe, operational, and compliant with the CVSA program’s standards.

Posted on behalf of Bulldog Truck Sales