Used truck dealer with a small lot

Owner-operators, small haulage and construction firms, farms and fleets that replace or expand their trucks.

The gap between what you pay for a truck and its sale price, minus reconditioning and holding costs. Extra income can come from arranging financing referrals, warranties or transport.

• Strong knowledge of heavy truck mechanics and pricing
• Sales and negotiation
• Managing cash tied up in stock

• Dealer licensing, bonding and premises rules, which vary by province and territory
• Garage or dealer liability insurance, plus coverage for stock on your lot
• Zoning and municipal licences for a vehicle yard
• Hidden faults or liens on trucks you buy, so inspect and check lien registries first
• Money tied up in stock if trucks sit unsold, especially in slower winter months
• Quebec has its own rules and French-language requirements

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around $150,000 to $600,000, depending on your yard, stock and set-up. Much of that is cash tied up in trucks, so plan for stock sitting unsold, especially in slower winter months.

Check dealer licensing, bonding and premises rules, which vary by province and territory. Also check zoning and municipal licences for a vehicle yard, dealer liability insurance, and Quebec's own rules and French-language requirements.

Estimates put monthly revenue typically around $30,000 to $120,000, depending on how many trucks you sell and your stock. Revenue is not profit, and hidden faults, liens or unsold trucks can cut into your results.