Dealers are experiencing consistent interest in used trucks, despite strict lending criteria affecting purchasing choices.
In August, sales of used trucks saw a 28.5% increase compared to July, which had an 11.2% rise, as reported by Equipment Finance News’ Sales Index—part of the Average Truck Price Trends data. The index registered at 146 as of September 1, marking the second highest figure of 2025.
This growth mirrors a broader trend, with over 90% of dealers indicating stable or increasing demand for used trucks in the second quarter, according to a survey by heavy-equipment research firm IronAdvisor Insights, which included dealers from 115 locations.
While demand has helped maintain “relatively healthy” inventory levels, dealers are urged to exercise caution to avoid potential setbacks, according to IronAdvisor Director of Research Jarrett Harris.
“At this stage, it’s about preventing growth,” he explained, noting the need to limit excess inventory bolstered by stable prices alongside rising new-truck prices.
Notably, the average price of new trucks surged 32.3% in the first half of the year, reaching approximately $186,000, as per EFN data. This trend contributes to a shift towards used trucks, especially among large fleets.
Effects of Tight Lending
Despite this upward trend, strict credit standards are hindering used-truck purchases for smaller fleets and owner-operators, as stated by Harris.
“We see many qualified buyers facing credit line denials or needing to make substantial upfront payments at high-interest rates,” he added.
This tightening of lending is pushing operators to opt for older, high-mileage trucks, as securing financing for low-mileage vehicles becomes increasingly difficult due to competition from larger fleets.
Small fleet operators are particularly finding it challenging to access loans, as factors like personal debt heavily influence their approval chances, according to Dean Croke of DAT Freight and Analytics.
As a solution, some dealers are expanding their network of potential lenders to overcome these financing obstacles.
