USED SHUTTLE MINI BUSES FOR SALE
There are many different types of buses available, our specialty is most commonly referred to as a shuttle bus (also referred to as a minibus), and it is built in a great variety of configurations. A shuttle bus transports passengers to and from locations. For example, an airport bus travels from a parking lot to an airport terminal. If you are planning to buy a shuttle bus, there are a few things that you should think about first to make the best possible purchase.
Buying a Shuttle Bus For Sale
A used bus can be incredibly important and worthwhile if you know what to look for and select the bus carefully. Remember, eBay, and Craigslist bargains carry unknown risks! One of the first things you should consider is the different types of sellers of shuttle buses. You should determine which reputable sellers can deliver a quality product at a fair price. How long have they been in business? Are they licensed and bonded? A reputable seller will encourage an independent inspection, but the typical dealer will tell you that another buyer is waiting to purchase the vehicle tomorrow (which should never be believed). The most desirable shuttles for church buses, tour buses, handicapped buses, and tour and charter shuttles have been competently maintained (often under DOT inspection programs) throughout their lives and have been thoroughly serviced, inspected, and have been rigorously maintained by a licensed repair facility. Some used buses for sale have higher mileage and could be gas or diesel-powered. Diesel engines have been advertised to offer longer lives and better fuel economy than gas-powered ones. The apparent advantages can be deceptive. Diesel buses are harder to service, and as emission controls have become much more stringent, diesel power has taken a back seat to the easy service available for gas-powered buses. Since many available buses may have been in commercial or municipal service or are often used for hire, they can fall under “DOT” maintenance and inspection rules. These buses can make a great purchase despite higher mileage (often with fewer features) as they have had better maintenance from the delivery date. A prudent buyer should ensure they are reconditioned and well inspected before completing your purchase. Unless you can properly inspect the vehicle or buy it from a licensed dealer, they should generally be avoided.
There are also shuttle bus service jitney buses that run through urban areas and are typically used by small independent transportation companies. These buses usually transport the public, taking passengers to areas around town, and are subjected to punishing stop-and-go traffic making runs from suburbia to downtown areas for a modest fare. Often these buses are the most poorly maintained and are not for sale at Major Vehicle Exchange. You should never purchase a bus with a salvage, TMU (true mileage unknown), or non-conforming title, even if the title is “reconstructed”.
Special Needs
Perhaps you are looking for a shuttle for sale to accommodate persons with special needs, such as a non-emergency medical transport bus (NEMT), senior center bus, adult daycare bus, medical transport shuttle, senior living shuttle, adult day care shuttle, medical transport van, senior center van, adult daycare van, and more. Many shuttle buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts. These buses are widely used at assisted living facilities, independent living residences, and municipalities. Used ones from these sources may have low mileage but often require substantial reconditioning unless purchased from a qualified dealer.
Most handicapped individuals will appreciate the availability of a wheelchair lift and a properly trained driver or attendant to board and disembark passengers from the bus. Buyers must ensure that any wheelchair lift or ramp is well maintained to avoid accidents and malfunctions that could leave someone stranded several feet off the ground and render the bus inoperable.
The type of seating that you get on your bus is also very important. Especially in the case of a luxury shuttle bus. The two basic choices are cloth seating in various fabrics and vinyl seating. Cloth seating is more comfortable for both hot and cold weather, while smooth vinyl seating has a lower friction coefficient, which means that the passengers are more likely to slide off the seats if there is a sudden shift in bus momentum. Vinyl seating is preferable for senior citizens because it cleans up easier and does not retain odors to the same extent as cloth seating.
This information is important to take into consideration before buying a bus. Take your time, find an honest and experienced dealer, and put a decent amount of thought into the process. Visitors to Major Vehicle Exchange (www.getanybus.com) will likely find some great vehicles. Buy a good reconditioned bus for sale for your company or group, like a Ford E-350 or E-450 bus that will last for years.
