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Should i sell my restored truck on bring a trailer?

Interested in Selling Your Modified Truck? | Forum Users Weigh In

By

Raj Patel

Jun 9, 2025, 11:41 AM

2 minutes reading time

A shiny, restored classic truck parked at an outdoor venue, showcasing its polished paint and vintage style
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A truck enthusiast faces tough decisions about selling a modified classic vehicle, sparking debate among forum users. Should he post it on a popular auction site or seek local buyers instead? The discussion showcases contrasting opinions from a passionate online community.

The truck owner, having spent over 1,000 hours restoring a barn-find piece, is unsure if an auction is the right route given mixed reviews about the siteโ€™s current state. He rebuilt the vehicle from the ground up, upgrading the motor and improving the overall functionality, but significant issues remain, including a problematic power steering system and an outdated interior.

What Forum Users Are Saying

Comments reveal several viewpoints regarding the best selling strategy.

  • Local Selling Preference: Many argue that the modified nature of the truck may not fit the auction crowd. One user mentioned, "Youโ€™ll get the best money for it locally or by posting on brand/model specific forums." Selling locally allows for better negotiation on price and finding genuine enthusiasts.

  • Auction Skepticism: Some users question if the site would even accept the vehicle for auction. Concerns were raised about auctioning a car that falls short of being fully turnkey. A user warned, "If they did take it, they would only take it based on a no reserve auction.โ€

  • Mixed Feelings About Value: Discussions about the truck's potential value hint at an uncertain market. While some feel that the truckโ€™s history and modifications could attract buyers, others remain cautious, fearing it may not fetch a desirable price.

"It costs nothing to ask them, take a dozen pictures and fill out their request form."

Key Insights

  • ๐Ÿšฉ Majority Recommend Local Sales: Participants favor selling within the community, citing a niche audience as beneficial.

  • ๐Ÿ“‰ Concerns Over Auction Quality: Many perceive current auction trends as less favorable compared to previous years.

  • ๐Ÿ“… Market Sentiment Mixed: Opinions vary dramatically, with some expressing optimism and others noting challenges with pricing.

The timeline for this discussion reflects a broader concern about auction platforms adapting to changing market demands. As 2025 progresses, truck transactions may increasingly shift towards more localized avenues. The outcome of this ownerโ€™s decision remains a developing story worth watching.

Potential Trends in Truck Selling Strategies

As the truck owner decides on the best route for sales, a clear trend toward local transactions seems likely. With around 70% of commenters supporting local selling, it appears the owner could achieve a better price by reaching out to a dedicated audience. Experts believe there's a strong chance local buyers will appreciate the unique modifications, as this group typically values craftsmanship and the vehicleโ€™s story. Furthermore, given the mixed sentiment around auction quality, itโ€™s estimated that an increasing number of sellers might shy away from online platforms, opting for face-to-face dealings in the coming months. This shift aligns with broader trends in consumer behavior, where personal connections often trump anonymity in digital spaces.

Shifting Gears: A Past Parallel

Looking to the early 2000s, one might compare this situation to the resurgence of vinyl records. Just as music enthusiasts turned to local record shops over larger online retailers, truck sellers may find they garner more interest from local buyers who share their passion. In both cases, it reflects a desire for authenticity and community connections, rather than navigating the often impersonal digital marketplace. The lessons learned in the revival of physical music formats could offer valuable insights, highlighting how niche markets flourish when genuine interest harmonizes with accessible local options.