Used truck from Europe or new Chinese truck: which to choose?

Used truck from Europe or new Chinese truck: the European used truck costs less to buy and comes from well-known brands, but its age and history are often uncertain. The new Chinese truck requires a higher initial budget, but it has no hidden wear and can be chosen in the exact configuration you need. Here is an honest comparison, criterion by criterion.

Where West Africa's used trucks come from

Among the used trucks offered in Lomé, Cotonou or Abidjan, many come from Europe, notably from Belgium. They are trucks from major European brands: Mercedes-Benz, Renault, Volvo, DAF, MAN, Scania or Iveco. They were designed to last, and many hauliers know them well.

But a used truck comes with its past: its mileage, its maintenance, any accidents and the wear of its engine, gearbox and chassis. It is this past that must be assessed before buying.

The comparison criterion by criterion

The strengths of a European used truck

• A lower purchase price, which leaves cash to get started.
• Well-known brands, with a good reputation for comfort and toughness.
• A truck available quickly, if it is already on site.
• A possible good deal if the truck has been well maintained and a trusted mechanic inspects it before purchase.

The risks to assess

• Hidden wear: it cannot be seen on a photo or during a short test drive.
• Maintenance costs: an old truck needs more repairs, and every day in the workshop is a day without income.
• Electronics and fuel: recent European trucks often have Euro V or Euro VI engines, designed for diesel with very low sulphur content. With lower-quality diesel, their emission control systems can fail.
• Age limits: in Côte d'Ivoire, for example, decree no. 2017-792 has banned since 2018 the import of trucks over 5 tonnes that are more than 10 years old. Check the rule in your country before buying.

The strengths of a new Chinese truck

• No surprises: no tampered mileage, no hidden accident, no wear.
• The right configuration: number of axles, power, body volume, cab, according to your business. See for example our comparison 10-wheel vs 12-wheel truck.
• Suitable mechanics: Euro II versions with mechanical injection, such as the Howo 371, cope better with diesel of variable quality.
• Common parts: Howo and Shacman are very widespread on West African roads and sites.

And the refurbished truck?

The refurbished truck sits between the two: a used truck that has been reconditioned, often cheaper than a new one. But the word "refurbished" guarantees nothing on its own: ask for the written list of work done, the invoices and a video of the truck running. We detail this in our article new, used or refurbished truck.

So, what should you choose?

• Rather a new Chinese truck if the truck will work every day, if a breakdown would make you lose a contract, or if you need a specific configuration.
• Rather a European used truck if your budget is tight, if the truck will work little, if a trusted mechanic can inspect it and if your country allows its age.
• A refurbished truck only if the work is documented.

Whether you work in Abidjan, Ouagadougou, Niamey, Lomé, Bamako or Conakry, the right calculation is the total cost: purchase price, maintenance, parts and days off the road.

Frequently asked questions: used or new truck