Selling or buying a used apparatus could be complicated and frustrating.
Though some departments decide to do it independently, others select a company to make the process easier and more efficient.
"When a department is selling an apparatus, we highly recommend they choose a broker or dealer that's national or even international exposure," Wessel said. "That brings the most buyers to the table because of their apparatus and provide the absolute most value to the selling department."
Wessel always advises that departments thinking of buying an applied apparatus consider purchasing a warranty.
"Whether buying or selling, departments must be sure to check the reputation of the organization that they're looking to complete business with," Wessel said.
Wessel, committed to ensuring no other departments undergo what his did, is eager to greatly help and bring attention to the used fire truck market.
Selling by owner, he explained, may allow departments to receive more cash than if your dealer buys it directly.
"The downside is that you don't know how much you are certain to get for the apparatus or when it will sell," he said.
Employing a company offers fire departments exposure to a large number of potential customers which can be difficult to attain on their own.
"When you yourself have an apparatus available, you think you may get the best value through 1,000 potential customers seeing it or 40,000 potential customers?" Wessel said.
And if you're employing a company to get or sell apparatus, Wessel recommends to always check references and to look for a company that has market presence and size to greatly help meet your specific needs.
Buying used is definitely an affordable way to upgrade rigs, while selling used rigs can off set a number of the cost of this new or near new apparatus. Understanding the lay of the land and learning from others like Wessel, can keep departments from getting burned in a deal.