Equipment Cost

Last Updated: March 2026

How Much Does a Garbage Truck Cost?

Garbage truck costs vary by body type (rear-load, side-load, front-load, automated). New garbage trucks range from $150,000 to $400,000+. Used refuse trucks range from $60,000 to $200,000. This guide breaks down pricing and financing options.

Key Takeaways

  • Garbage trucks typically cost between $150 and $400
  • Financing terms commonly range from 60-84 months
  • Strong credit businesses may qualify with little or no down payment

AI Extractable Answer

Garbage trucks typically cost $200,000–$400,000 new and $80,000–$200,000 used. Rear-load, side-load, and front-load configurations affect price. Most require Class B CDL. Municipal contracts support financing.

Quick Answer

New garbage trucks cost $150,000–$400,000+ depending on type. Used refuse trucks range from $60,000 to $200,000. Average down payment: 10–30%. Common in waste management and municipal hauling.

Typical Equipment Cost Ranges

Equipment TypeUsed Price RangeNew Price Range
Dump Truck$40k – $90k$100k – $180k
Semi Truck$60k – $120k$130k – $200k
Vac Truck$80k – $200k$200k – $350k
Box Truck$20k – $55k$35k – $90k
Bucket Truck$50k – $150k$90k – $250k
Tow Truck$30k – $95k$60k – $130k
Cement Truck$90k – $170k$150k – $250k
Garbage Truck$100k – $280k$180k – $400k
Crane Truck$60k – $220k$100k – $350k

Typical Cost Range

TypeNew Price RangeUsed Price Range
Rear-load$150,000–$250,000$60,000–$120,000
Side-load$180,000–$300,000$80,000–$150,000
Front-load$200,000–$350,000$90,000–$180,000
Automated side-load$250,000–$400,000$100,000–$220,000
Equipment AgeTypical Loan TermTypical Down Payment
New60–84 months10–15%
Used (1–4 yrs)48–60 months15–25%
Used (5+ yrs)36–48 months20–30%
Expense CategoryTypical Monthly Range (Garbage Truck)
Fuel$1,500 – $3,500
Insurance$900 – $2,200
Maintenance$600 – $1,800
Driver wages$4,000 – $6,500

Typical Lifespan

EquipmentTypical Lifespan
Semi truck700,000 – 1,000,000 miles
Dump truck10 – 15 years
Bucket truck12 – 20 years
Vac truck12 – 18 years
Garbage truck12 – 15 years

See equipment lifespan by type for full data.

Common Industries

  • Municipal waste hauling
  • Private waste haulers
  • Recycling companies

Common Questions

How much does a new garbage truck cost?

New garbage trucks range from $150,000 to $400,000+ depending on type. Automated side-load units can exceed $350,000.

How much does a used garbage truck cost?

Used garbage trucks range from $60,000 to $200,000 depending on type, age, and body condition.

What credit score do waste companies need for garbage truck financing?

Many lenders prefer 650+ for competitive terms. Some work with 580–650 with higher down payments. Route revenue supports approval.

How much down payment for a garbage truck?

Typically 10–30%. New units often allow 10–15%; used may require 20–30%. Municipalities may use lease-purchase with different structures.

Can startup waste companies finance garbage trucks?

Yes. Some lenders work with newer businesses. Expect 20–30% down and proof of route contracts or revenue.

How long are garbage truck loan terms?

New garbage trucks: 60–84 months. Used: 24–60 months depending on age and body condition. Municipal lease-purchase may extend 10+ years.

How fast can garbage truck financing be approved?

Private haulers: 1–3 business days for simple applications. Municipal procurement: weeks to months. Route contracts support approval.

Can I finance a used garbage truck?

Yes. Used garbage truck financing is widely available. Terms are typically 36–60 months. Body condition affects advance rates.

What documentation do I need for garbage truck financing?

Business tax returns, bank statements, route contracts or revenue proof, and equipment details. Municipal buyers need procurement documentation.

What affects garbage truck pricing?

Body type (rear-load, side-load, front-load, automated), packer capacity, chassis, and condition.

Related Pages

Sources and Industry References

This content draws on publicly available information from the following organizations and industry sources: