If you have ever been truck shopping you may have been shocked to see the price tag of a new truck.  While publications like Kelly Blue Book says that the starting price of a full size truck starts around $27,000, most people purchase a truck for around $40,000.  That is no small number.  And that is just the average!  With added features, premium stereo, leather, engine upgrades, etc. the price tag could reach over $70,000!  While sticker shock is surely a reason to buy a used truck, here is a list of reasons to purchase a truck that has already depreciated.

• Price – According to Consumer Reports “new pickups have been known to shed half their value in the first two or three years”.  And, most used trucks will still have a lot of life left after the few years of use by the original owner.  Trucks are well built these days and finding a gently used one will surely go a long way.  In fact, on many consumer sites, most makes of full size trucks and mid size trucks have very high reliability ratings and are highly recommended.  Makes include Ford, GMC, Chevrolet, Dodge, Toyota and Honda.

• Used Trucks and SUVs are handy for cargo – In down and up economic times, people tend to do their own home improvement projects when feasible. You’re going to want a used truck or SUV (vs. a new sub-compact) for those runs to Home Depot or Lowe’s and the dump when it comes time to clean up.

• Sometimes you just need a truck – I own a sedan and it is a pretty practical vehicle for many of my daily tasks, but there are situations where it cannot take the place of something that is specifically designed to load and unload large items. Also, there are some items that you just don’t want to transport inside a car. Dirt, paint, soil, tools, and any DIY project will surely put you at risk of destroying the interior of your car.  A truck is meant to move dirty things.

• Pocket Cash – Whether you already have a job and are just looking to make some pocket cash, having a truck is a great tool for helping people move or tow items. Also, for those who have snowy winters, putting a plow on your truck is a great way to make some extra money.

• Technology – This can go both ways: if you’re looking for all of the latest gizmos and gadgets, this is a more affordable route. Trucks from 2013 and 2014 will have most of the entertainment, communication, and safety tech you could ask for. On the flip side, you’ll also be able to find a truck that strictly is a grunt, built to tow, haul, and handle an impressive payload.