Buyer beware: navigating the used truck market

Used trucks are big business in Africa. As demand grows for cost-effective transport across logistics, construction and mining, many fleet operators and SMEs are turning to affordable second-hand models. Some, however, fall prey to misleading sales practices and defective vehicles, as JULIA TEW finds out.

Offering an ideal balance between performance and cost, quality used trucks are an attractive option for those looking to avoid the high import duties on new commercial vehicles (CVs), which can reach 35% in some African countries. Little wonder, then, that the African used-truck market was valued at around US$5.4 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow 7.4% annually to US$8.9 billion by 2031.

South Africa leads the continent’s used-truck market thanks to its strong infrastructure and mature transport sector. A network of reputable dealers offers quality used models – often with maintenance plans and telematics options – from brands such as Volvo, Mercedes-Benz, MAN, Scania, Isuzu and Hino.

As demand grows for aftermarket services such as maintenance, refurbishment and spare parts distribution, companies are investing in service centres and other offerings tailored to keeping older vehicle models safely on the road for longer, thus strengthening the market ecosystem and benefiting long-term fleet sustainability.

Buyers explore online options

Online marketplaces are also gaining in popularity, reducing transaction friction by connecting buyers and sellers directly and improving buyer confidence with detailed listings, images and even inspection reports. WeBuyCars (WBC) is one such platform offering used trucks, trailers and other CVs for sale. The company made a strategic decision in 2023 to develop its commercial division, investing in a dedicated area at its Dome branch in Northriding, Gauteng. A specialist buying team with extensive knowledge of the trucking industry was also established. “Truck buyers focus on factors such as operational history, terrain and working loads, all of which influence truck pricing and future performance,” explains WBC sales director Janson Ponting.  

Over the past year, WBC has seen a substantial increase in both interest in and sales of CVs on its online auction platform. “We are now selling between 100 and 150 trucks monthly, with a sizeable portion of these sales concluded via our online platform,” reports Ponting. “We’ve dedicated a lot of time and effort to marketing and developing our digital commercial channel – leveraging the strength of the WBC brand to build a strong customer base and increase reach. We are seeing continued growth and remain committed to broadening our offerings and capabilities for the trucking sector.”

Mounting challenges in a booming market

Despite its maturity, South Africa’s used-truck sector faces growing headwinds, as outlined in the November 2024 issue of FOCUS. These include the influx of imported used trucks from Europe, Asia and North America, and the entrance of many new low-cost truck suppliers from countries like China.

South Africa is also listed among the 48 African countries that have inadequate measures to regulate used heavy-duty vehicle imports. Between 30,000 and 50,000 illegal “grey” imports are added to the country’s roads each year, costing the fiscus R5 billion to R8 billion a year in direct taxes, says naamsa | the Automotive Business Council. This threatens local dealerships and manufacturers, hampers technological innovation and job creation and aids criminal activity.

Also of significant concern is transparency in vehicle condition and usage history. Across Africa, many used vehicles are resold with incomplete or falsified histories – from mileage rollbacks to undisclosed accident damage. This lack of transparency erodes buyer trust and leads to costly surprises post-purchase.

Cross-border controls and inspection

Fortunately, several African nations are now moving toward standardising used vehicle imports and enforcing inspection certificates. Kenya, for example, has a new requirement as of July 2025 that all used vehicles imported must comply with standard KS 1515:2000 (inspection and roadworthiness standard) and document validation. Since 2022, all used vehicles (including second-hand) coming into Zimbabwe must have inspection certificates from accredited providers and undergo roadworthiness inspections. These inspection requirements don’t just protect consumers – they also help remove unsafe vehicles from Africa’s roads.

In South Africa, used vehicles may only be imported under specific exemptions – and only after a successful application to the authorities. But the country is yet to adopt inspection and conformity processes as rigorous as those of its neighbour, making the stemming of illegal imports no easy task. “Multiple stakeholders need to come to the party to resolve the issue,” naamsa CEO Mikel Mabasa is reported as saying – mentioning actors such as the South African Revenue Service and the Department of Transport, as well as the South African Police Force and Metro Police.

A critical checklist for buyers

To avoid making regrettable mistakes when purchasing used trucks from dealers or at auction, buyers should always take the following precautions:

1. Verify ownership and registration: Ensure the vehicle has a valid police clearance certificate and is not stolen or illegally imported.
2. Inspect vehicle history: Check for any accident reports or previous damage that could impact the vehicle’s integrity.
3. Review documentation: Confirm that all necessary paperwork, including registration documents and service history, is available and accurate.
4. Understand sale/auction terms: Be aware of the sale or auction’s terms and conditions, including whether they are “voetstoots” (at the buyer’s risk) and the implications of such terms.
5. Conduct a thorough inspection: If possible, have a qualified mechanic inspect the vehicle to identify potential issues before bidding or buying.

Know your rights under SA law

Under South Africa’s Consumer Protection Act (CPA), buyers who purchase from registered dealers are entitled to vehicles that are durable, roadworthy and free of material defects (Section 55[2]). If a truck fails to meet these standards within six months, the buyer can demand a repair, replacement, or refund (Section 56[2]).

That being said, these protections typically apply to purchases from registered dealers. Transactions at auctions or private sales are often “voetstoots”, meaning buyers accept the vehicle as-is, with limited recourse.

When to call the Ombudsman

The Motor Industry Ombudsman of South Africa (MIOSA) serves as an independent dispute resolution forum for the local automotive industry, offering free services to consumers facing unresolved issues with vehicle businesses. Its mandate includes handling complaints related to defective vehicles, misleading sales practices and CPA breaches. While MIOSA’s services are free, consumers may incur costs for technical inspections if required.

Examples of where MIOSA has successfully intervened include a case where a consumer purchased a truck that was not legally registerable due to a missing police clearance certificate. Because the truck could not be legally driven, MIOSA found in the consumer’s favour to have the sales agreement cancelled.

Better safe than sorry

While many external forces are reshaping South Africa’s used-truck market, fleet managers and owner-drivers can still control the decisions they make when purchasing or bidding on second-hand trucks. Factors to keep top of mind include vehicle provenance and documentation; condition, longevity and serviceability; future maintenance and parts costs; and other aftermarket support features.

In a market full of promise but not without pitfalls, diligence remains a buyer’s best defence. Choose your dealer wisely – and steer clear of the bumpy road of regret.