Truck running costs

[Juggler]

Currently running a 7.5T horsebox, which is cheaper to run than the Disco & trailer it replaced, however we're looking at moving to a larger lorry as it's become apparent the 7.5 isn't big enough going forward, a 12T would probably do but 18T would be future proof and I'm only really planning on doing this once...whatever we buy will have to stay for a good few years as it won't be cheap.
Question is, can anyone give me running costs for a 12 & 18 tonner? I'm guessing a 12 tonner won't be much different to the 7.5 as they look to be much the same truck but an 18T would be a whole different animal. Probably doing sub 10k miles/year currently.

 

[neilo]

Those Gee Gees are certainly getting expensive…..

 

[Juggler]

Those Gee Gees are certainly getting expensive…..

Neil, this is no laughing matter....

In hindsight those Lleyn ewes running with those rams I bought off you were probably much more sensible.

However, this is a supertanker now and not that easy to turn round... however, strangely and much to my surprise, I'm really enjoying being involved and my girls are living their dream and it doesn't seem to be going away any time soon so I decided to embrace it!

 

[LancsBeef]

Hi just a thought but if the weight limit isn’t close on an 18 ton have you thought of downrating it for tax to a 15 ton class? This is quite a big saving depending on what weight you need to carry and doesn’t require any modifications only a new plate certificate

 

[Juggler]

Hi just a thought but if the weight limit isn’t close on an 18 ton have you thought of downrating it for tax to a 15 ton class? This is quite a big saving depending on what weight you need to carry and doesn’t require any modifications only a new plate certificate

Good point, could possibly do that to save on the tax, any idea on fuel usage for the 18t compared to a 12?

 

[JP1]

Good point, could possibly do that to save on the tax, any idea on fuel usage for the 18t compared to a 12?

Get a good 12 ton chassis like a MAN and you'll get 30% more fuel efficiency compared with an 18 tonner