Buying used pickups and SUVs in Ghana: how SMEs can assess the real savings from fleet purchases

Ghanaian small and medium-sized businesses need to carefully assess the real savings of purchasing used pickups and SUVs for their operations, such as farm supply transportation, delivery routes, and customer service visits. Simply buying more vehicles at once does not necessarily lead to lower monthly costs. The key factors are the cost of getting the job done with the new vehicles and whether the company can continue operating if one breaks down.

When evaluating fleet purchases, businesses should match the specifications to their specific needs like load volumes, weights, road conditions, and cargo security requirements. For example, an SUV may be suitable for passenger transport and enclosed luggage, but may not be ideal for heavy load work. The choice of four-wheel drive also depends on the routes traveled.

Businesses should compare costs over the entire ownership period, which includes purchase, transport, import formalities, initial servicing and repairs, insurance, and ongoing operation. This means recording fuel, tires, servicing, repairs, and replacement transport during each vehicle's downtime. A useful internal calculation includes acquisition and landed costs, running and repair costs, finance charges, and downtime-related expenses, then subtracting an estimate of resale proceeds.

Standardizing vehicle models can simplify driver familiarization and routine parts purchasing, but individual inspections are still necessary. Each vehicle should have a record of its mileage, service history, condition, and accompanying documents. Special attention should be paid to the load bed, frame, suspension, and brakes. One vehicle with major repair needs can disrupt the planned schedule.

Import costs for each vehicle should also be checked, as the Ghana Revenue Authority differentiates vehicle categories and advises importers to check clearance requirements before shipment. The clearing agent should receive the model, year, intended use, and transaction documents, and request an itemized estimate for the actual shipment. Shipping line charges should also be confirmed after arrival.