Complete Guide to Buying Used HOWO Sinotruk Trucks

With the rapid development of global logistics and transportation, HOWO trucks by China Sinotruk have become a top choice for many businesses and individual owners due to their durability, reliability, and high payload capacity. However, when purchasing a used HOWO truck, considerations go beyond price, especially for cross-border purchases or exports to Africa, Southeast Asia, and other regions. Buyers need to understand Chinese road conditions, emission standards, vehicle operation history, and potential risks. This guide provides a comprehensive reference to help you make informed decisions.

1. Overview of the Chinese Truck Market and Used HOWO Trucks

China is the world’s largest truck manufacturing and consumption market. As a flagship brand of China Sinotruk, HOWO trucks offer a wide range of models, including semi-trailers, tractor trucks, and light-duty trucks, serving logistics, construction, mining, and long-haul transportation.

China’s highway infrastructure has developed rapidly. By 2019, the total highway mileage exceeded 140,000 km, providing a reliable transportation foundation. Road transport accounts for over 70% of domestic freight volume, and HOWO trucks are widely used in long-distance routes, favored for their reliability and cost-efficiency.2. Define Your Needs and Objectives

Before purchasing a used HOWO truck, it is crucial to define your objectives:

1. Transport Purpose

• Long-haul logistics: choose heavy-duty tractor trucks or high-powered trucks

• Short-distance delivery: consider medium or light-duty trucks

• Special applications: refrigerated trucks, hazardous materials transport, etc.

• Fleet operations: focus on stability, maintenance costs, and long-term economy

• Individual operators: prioritize upfront investment and fuel efficiency

• Determine a budget ceiling and ensure the selected truck can provide reliable operational value for the next several years

Tip: List your transport routes and cargo requirements, then match them with suitable HOWO truck models to avoid choosing the wrong vehicle.

3. Operational Costs and Economics

The economic advantages of HOWO trucks mainly lie in fuel consumption, maintenance, and parts availability:

• Fuel Consumption: Varies by model; used HOWO trucks average 35–50 liters per 100 km. Inspect engine condition to avoid excessive fuel consumption.

• Maintenance Costs: HOWO parts are widely available in China, but imported used trucks may face higher spare part costs.

• Depreciation & ROI: New trucks depreciate quickly. Used trucks have already undergone initial depreciation, offering better economic value—but check mileage and age carefully.

Tip: Calculate total annual operating costs (fuel + maintenance + insurance + taxes) before purchase to ensure a reasonable return on investment.

4. Power Output and Model Selection

HOWO trucks come in various power outputs and payload capacities:

Considerations when choosing:

1. Match payload with cargo requirements

2. Ensure vehicle size suits operational environment (urban vs. mountainous roads)

3. Inspect engine, gearbox, and axles for wear in used trucks

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5. Safety Features and Operating Environment

Safety is crucial when buying a used HOWO truck:

• Basic Safety: ABS, ESP, seat belts, airbags

• Additional Safety: Anti-rollover, reinforced cabin, comfortable sleeper for long hauls

• Terrain Adaptation: 4x4 or heavy-duty chassis for mountainous or rough roads

Note: Safety features on used vehicles may have been affected by usage or modifications. Thorough inspection is essential.

6. Chinese Emission Standards and Regulations

China’s truck emission standards range from China I (Euro I) to China VI (Euro VI), significantly affecting vehicle lifespan and export:

• Euro II (China II): banned on Chinese highways; commonly exported to Africa

• Euro III–IV (China III–IV): some 3-year-old used trucks still allowed on highways

• Euro V–VI (China V–VI): newest standards, environmentally friendly, higher price

Tip: Ensure the used HOWO truck meets the regulations of the target market to avoid purchasing scrapped or non-compliant vehicles.

7. Annual Mileage and Wear

HOWO trucks in China often operate extremely high annual mileage:

• Long-haul trucks may drive 300,000–360,000 km per year

• Four-year-old trucks can exceed 1.2 million km

• High usage leads to significant engine, gearbox, chassis, and cabin wear

Conclusion: Extremely low-priced used HOWO trucks may be near the end of service life. Always verify mileage and maintenance records.

8. Risks and Scams in Used HOWO Truck Market

Common issues in the used HOWO market:

1. Refurbished Scrapped Trucks: Some trucks are repainted, cabins replaced, or lights upgraded, but engine and chassis are still worn.

2. Odometer Tampering: Mileage may be altered, misleading buyers on vehicle wear.

3. Non-Compliant Emissions: Euro II–III trucks banned on Chinese highways are still exported; buyers may mistakenly believe they are in good condition.

4. Suspiciously Low Prices: Trucks sold for $12,000–$15,000 often come from scrapped stock and are not suitable for long-term operation.

Recommendation: Purchase through trusted channels and check maintenance records, engine condition, and chassis integrity.

9. Purchasing Channels and Selection Tips

Choosing a reliable supplier is critical. A professional company ensures safe, high-quality vehicles and comprehensive services, minimizing purchase risks.

Recommended Company: Shandong Camel Truck Co., Ltd.

Shandong Camel Truck Co., Ltd. is located in Liangshan, Shandong Province, China—the largest used truck trading hub. Founded in August 2010, the company has nearly 300 employees, including over 200 technical professionals. Its modern facilities cover 25,000 m², with top-tier production lines capable of stocking, maintaining, refurbishing, and servicing 3,000 trucks annually.

The company supplies all major brands, including China Sinotruk, Shaanxi Auto, Volvo, Mercedes-Benz, Beiben, offering tractor trucks, dump trucks, semi-trailers, mixer trucks, and parts. One-stop services include inspection, shipping, customs clearance, and after-sales support. The company’s sales network covers over 50 countries in Africa, Central Asia, and Southeast Asia, achieving $100 million in sales in 2024.

Camel Truck Co., Ltd. is committed to integrity, quality, and service, aiming to become a global leader in the used truck industry.

Professional Services Offered by Camel Truck

Mechanical Overhaul

• Complete inspection of engines, gearboxes, and axles

• Replacement of oil, filters, and key components

Exterior Refurbishment

• Repainting chassis, cabin, rims, and body

• Restoring trucks to like-new appearance

Component Upgrades

• Replacement of batteries, fuel tanks, electrical and pneumatic systems

• Air-conditioning system updates

Cabin Renewal

• New seats, sleeper, dashboard, and interior

• Improved driver comfort and safety

Final Polishing

• Waxed before shipment for glossy surface

Why Choose Camel Truck

1. Engine Remanufacturing

• Advanced testing equipment for full engine diagnostics

• Detailed performance reports ensure long-term reliability

• Partnerships with leading shipping companies and freight forwarders

• Safe and punctual delivery to destination ports

• Maintenance, repair, and spare parts services

• Complete one-stop solutions for overseas clients

Selection Tips

• Inspect maintenance records, emission certificates, and mileage

• Conduct a full inspection in person or via a professional technician

• Understand financing and insurance options to manage budget risk

• Compare multiple trucks to choose the most cost-effective option

• Prioritize reliable companies like Shandong Camel Truck Co., Ltd. for peace of mind

Conclusion

Purchasing a used HOWO truck requires careful consideration of purpose, operational costs, safety, mileage, emission standards, and reliable suppliers. Using trusted companies like Shandong Camel Truck Co., Ltd. ensures professional refurbishment, thorough inspection, and safe delivery. By conducting due diligence and following these guidelines, buyers can confidently invest in used HOWO trucks that provide long-term value.