As many of you have noticed, I have recently bought 2–3 trucks with automatic transmissions. This was not without a lot of consideration and forethought.
Years ago, we figured out that we could buy a used truck with 80% to 90% of its life left for 50% of the price of a new one. It pays off in the long run. So, when it’s time to update or expand, we shop the market for trucks coming back off lease programs with around 300,000 miles.
The last few years, this has become more difficult, so I began asking a lot of questions. The problem today is that about 80% of new trucks being sold are equipped with automatic transmissions. Because of that, they are $10,000 to $15,000 cheaper. When shopping for a used manual transmission truck, you’re looking for specialty equipment, and they just aren’t as plentiful anymore.
On top of that, we’ve had to turn away potential truck drivers who are licensed for automatic transmissions only.
I know… it makes me miss my days pulling a maxi through Seattle in a snowstorm with traffic using my W900 with a 6-speed main box and a 4-speed brownie. Yes, newbies, it had two gear shifts, and you used them both all day!
Anyway, it is what it is. Automatic transmissions are coming.
As president, I will continue looking for the best overall deals for the continued success of the company.
We still need 3 log truck drivers and a couple of flatbed drivers.
Please drive safely and be courteous along the way.
-Troy