For years, buying a used commercial truck meant attending regional auctions or truck dealerships, leaving small business owners and fleet buyers with limited options. But now, Penske is transforming the experience with the launch of its Penske Used Trucks Auction website, where buyers can access a nationwide inventory from the comfort of their screens. The online platform offers a wide variety of vehicles, from cargo vans and box trucks to heavy-duty tractors, trailers and even specialized vehicles like utility trucks.
Penske’s new auction site allows buyers to browse vehicles and place bids within their budgets—a feature Jack Mitchell, senior vice president of vehicle remarketing for Penske Used Trucks, believes is a game-changer. “We designed this site to make used trucks accessible to owner-operators and fleets in a quick and budget-friendly way,” Mitchell explained. “It’s an efficient and transparent experience, allowing customers to find the truck that fits their needs without the pressure of a physical auction or dealership.”
Meeting growing demand for vocational trucks
Mitchell expects the weekly auction format is to be appealing for small- and medium-sized business owners who need to start, expand, or upgrade their fleets. Government programs and stimulus efforts are driving demand for vocational trucks, particularly in the construction sector. Kenny Vieth, president and senior analyst for ACT Research, sees long-term potential in this trend: “Many of these programs are still in the early stages, so the positive impact on construction-related vocational equipment will likely continue over the long term.”
For many businesses, purchasing a used vehicle is one of their largest investments, whether they’re launching an over-the-road trucking business, last-mile delivery service, or landscaping company. Mitchell emphasized the importance of supporting this business growth: “We know that for many, buying a truck is more than just a purchase. It’s an investment in their business, something they’ll rely on every day. This site gives buyers the confidence to find the right vehicle that aligns with their goals, helping them drive their success forward.”
Popular vehicles that support e-commerce growth
Certain types of trucks, such as cargo vans and box trucks, are particularly popular for last- and middle-mile deliveries, which are crucial for cost-effective e-commerce fulfillment. The auction site also gives fleet operators the flexibility to expand their vehicle mix without the high costs and delays of purchasing new trucks. “We’re thrilled to help businesses of all sizes access the vehicles they need to reach their potential,” Mitchell said. “This auction site gives buyers a choice they can trust, knowing they’re getting the right vehicle at the right price.”
The auction website, a companion to Penske’s main Used Trucks site, brings a digital-first approach to a traditionally hands-on industry. Online vehicle purchasing surged during the pandemic, making buyers increasingly comfortable with purchasing vehicles sight unseen. Mitchell explained, “Our goal was to modernize the used truck auction experience and make it as seamless as buying a car. We want to offer options that meet customers where they are—online, convenient and without the hassle of in-person bidding.”
A simple, transparent bidding process
Penske’s auction platform features an efficient, user-friendly bidding process. Buyers can view available vehicles without needing to register and only provide basic information if they decide to place a bid. The website offers helpful bidding tools such as auto-bid, instant bid and advanced bidding for added flexibility. Auctions open Tuesday at 8 a.m. EST and end throughout the day on Thursday.
Each vehicle listing includes detailed photos, a five-year Penske maintenance report, and a free third-party condition report. “These reports give buyers confidence,” Mitchell noted.
When an auction closes, winning buyers finalize the purchase at the Penske location where the vehicle is stored. Penske has done away with hidden buyer’s premiums and other fees and winning bidders also have access to financing and equipment protection plans. “This platform reflects Penske’s commitment to constant improvement,” Mitchell concluded. “We listened to our customers and created an accessible, streamlined experience that makes it easy for them to focus on growing their businesses with confidence.”
