Buying Apparatus
How is Command different from a listing service?
We own the trucks on our lot outright. When you buy from Command, you’re buying directly from the dealer. Your truck arrives lettered with your department name and serviced, and Command-owned apparatus model year 2000 and newer include a nationwide powertrain warranty. That’s not something a listing service can offer.
Does the price include delivery?
Delivery is coordinated by Command and a transport quote is included with every unit. We deliver across 49 states and internationally. Final delivery cost depends on your location and will be clearly outlined before you commit.
Does it really come lettered with our department name?
Yes — this is one of the core things that makes Command different. Every owned unit is lettered with your department name and graphics before it leaves our facility. This is included in the purchase price, not an add-on.
What does the warranty cover?
Command-owned apparatus model year 2000 and newer include a nationwide powertrain warranty. You can take the apparatus to any qualified repair vendor to satisfy the warranty — there is no requirement to return it to our facility. We will walk you through the specific terms before purchase.
Can we inspect the truck before buying?
Absolutely — and we encourage it. Our facility in Mount Joy, PA is open for inspections by appointment. You can bring your own mechanic or inspector. We have nothing to hide.
Is financing available?
Yes, financing is available. We work with lenders familiar with municipal and fire department purchasing. Contact us and we can connect you with financing options that fit your department’s budget and procurement process.
Can we see the truck without travelling to Mount Joy?
Yes. We offer virtual showings by live video call. We walk the apparatus for you, open compartments, start the engine, show you the pump panel, cab, chassis and body, and answer questions as you go. Bring your chief, apparatus committee, drivers and mechanics onto the same call so everyone sees the same truck at once.
How do I schedule a virtual showing?
Use the Schedule Inspection button on any listing and choose virtual walkthrough. We work around your department’s availability, including evenings and weekends when needed.
Does a virtual showing replace an in-person inspection?
Not necessarily. Think of it as an efficient first step. Rather than travelling to see every truck you are considering, see it virtually first, then decide whether an in-person inspection is worth the trip before you move forward.
Selling Apparatus
How do I sell my fire truck?
Selling a fire truck starts with determining the apparatus’s specifications, condition, maintenance history, and current market value. Command Fire Apparatus purchases fire trucks and used fire apparatus from fire departments, municipalities, and other organizations. Contact us with information about your apparatus and we can discuss the next steps.
Does Command Fire Apparatus buy used fire trucks?
Yes. We purchase used fire apparatus from fire departments, municipalities, dealers, and other organizations. We are actively interested in purchasing quality used fire trucks and emergency apparatus.
What types of fire trucks do you buy?
We purchase a wide variety of used fire apparatus, including pumpers, engines, tankers, rescues, aerials, quints, brush trucks, and other emergency vehicles. The age, condition, specifications, maintenance history, and market demand for each apparatus are considered when determining whether we can make an offer.
What age fire trucks are you looking to buy?
We primarily focus on purchasing 2005 and newer fire apparatus, although we may consider older apparatus depending on its condition, specifications, maintenance history, and overall marketability.
Do you buy fire trucks that are no longer in service?
Yes. We purchase apparatus that has been retired from service as well as trucks that are still in operation. A retired apparatus may still have significant value depending on its condition, specifications, maintenance history, and potential market.
Do you buy fire trucks with mechanical problems?
Potentially. We evaluate each apparatus individually. Mechanical issues, required repairs, and overall condition are considered when determining the value of a truck and whether we can purchase it.
Can you buy a fire truck directly from a municipality or fire department?
Yes. We work with fire departments, municipalities, and other organizations to purchase used fire apparatus. We can discuss the purchasing process and documentation requirements for your organization.
Do you handle transport from our location?
Yes. We arrange and handle transport of the apparatus from your location. You do not need to arrange shipping or send a crew to deliver it.
Valuation & Offers
How do you determine what my fire truck is worth?
We evaluate several factors when determining the value of a fire apparatus. These can include the year, manufacturer, model, mileage, engine and pump hours, chassis and body configuration, equipment, maintenance history, overall condition, and current market demand.
Do you provide fire truck appraisals?
Our evaluation is focused on determining what Command would be willing to pay for the apparatus. Once we have the information and photos we need, we can typically come back with a purchase figure within one to two business days.
What information do you need to make an offer on my fire truck?
The more information available, the more accurately we can evaluate the apparatus. Helpful information includes the year, make, model, mileage, engine hours, pump hours, specifications, equipment included with the truck, maintenance records, photos, and any known mechanical or cosmetic issues.
How quickly can you make an offer?
Typically within one to two business days once we have the details and photos we need.
Is it a firm offer or an estimate?
In most circumstances, yes. We are buying the truck ourselves, so the number we give you is the number we pay. There is no obligation to accept our offer.
What happens after I accept your offer?
Once an offer is accepted, we work with the seller to coordinate the necessary paperwork, payment, and transportation of the apparatus. Our goal is to make the transaction as straightforward as possible.
When do we get paid?
You are paid in full when we pick up the apparatus. When Command purchases your apparatus outright, there’s no waiting on a consignment sale, and no partial payments.
General
Where are you located?
We’re in Mount Joy, PA — Lancaster County. Our facility is a real fire truck garage with a working shop on site. Appointments are welcomed.
Do you deliver outside the United States?
Yes — we deliver across 49 states and internationally. We have experience coordinating international transport and can help navigate the logistics regardless of where your department is located.