Africa Used Truck Market Segmented By Tonnage Capacity (3.5 Tons to 7.5 Tons, 7.5 Tons to 16 Tons, 16 Tons to 30 Tons and Above 30 Tons), By Fuel (Diesel, Petrol, Others), By Application (Construction, Logistics, Mining and Others), By Country, Competition, Forecast & Opportunities, 2020-2030F

 Market Overview

The Africa Used Truck market was valued at USD 5.8 Billion in 2024 and is projected to reach approximately USD 9.0 Billion by 2030, expanding at a CAGR of 9.2% during the forecast period of 2025–2030. The Africa used truck market is undergoing a dynamic shift due to growing infrastructure development and the rising need for cost-effective transportation solutions. Many developing economies across the continent rely on affordable vehicle options for industries such as logistics, construction, and mining. Used trucks provide an ideal balance between capability and cost, making them attractive to small- and medium-sized businesses. Fleet owners are increasingly seeking second-hand commercial vehicles to manage operating expenses and stay competitive in demanding sectors. The influx of imported used trucks from Europe, Asia, and North America has significantly expanded the available inventory in the African market. This broad range of vehicle models allows end-users to select from various specifications suited to their business needs. The growing prevalence of online platforms and specialized dealerships has also improved access to information, simplified purchase processes, and helped build consumer confidence. Digitalization is playing a key role in increasing transparency and encouraging transactions in this previously opaque sector.

However, the market still faces challenges related to inconsistent regulations and the lack of vehicle history records, which can deter some buyers. Despite this, opportunities lie in harmonizing policies, improving financing options for small businesses, and strengthening vehicle certification standards. As government-led road expansion projects and private sector investments in logistics networks increase, the long-term outlook for the Africa used truck market remains optimistic.​

Market Drivers

Inconsistent Import Regulations

Import policies for used trucks vary widely across African countries, creating market fragmentation and trade inefficiencies. While some governments impose strict age limits and high tariffs, others offer more lenient regulations. These inconsistencies lead to unpredictable costs for importers and hinder the flow of used trucks across the continent. Traders and buyers face challenges navigating regulatory requirements, which can delay transactions and reduce buyer confidence in certain Countrys.

Limited Access to Financing

Many buyers in the Africa used truck market are small business owners or individual operators who lack access to structured financing. The absence of tailored vehicle loan programs makes it difficult for buyers to afford even second-hand trucks, despite their lower prices. Traditional lenders often perceive these purchases as high risk due to the vehicle’s age and lack of documentation. Without adequate financial support, demand remains suppressed, especially in rural and underserved areas.

Lack of Reliable Vehicle Histories

Transparency in vehicle condition and usage history is a key concern for buyers of used trucks. In Africa, vehicles are often resold without full disclosure of previous repairs, mileage tampering, or accident histories. This lack of transparency affects buyer trust and can result in increased maintenance costs post-purchase. Buyers may end up with vehicles requiring extensive repair, reducing cost savings and leading to dissatisfaction. It also hampers the development of a formalized resale ecosystem.

Poor Road Infrastructure in Some Countrys

Although infrastructure development is growing, many areas still suffer from inadequate road conditions. Used trucks often face accelerated wear and tear when operating on unpaved or poorly maintained roads. This not only increases maintenance expenses but also shortens vehicle life cycles. Operators working in these Countrys require higher vehicle durability and frequent servicing, discouraging investment in older or lower-end used trucks that may not withstand harsh driving conditions.

Rising Maintenance and Spare Parts Costs

As the number of used trucks in operation increases, so does the demand for spare parts and maintenance services. However, parts availability can be inconsistent, especially for less common models or older vehicles. This results in rising repair costs and downtime, reducing operational efficiency. Lack of skilled mechanics further compounds the issue. High maintenance costs erode the cost advantage of buying used, particularly for budget-conscious operators.

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Key Market Challenges

Inconsistent Import Regulations

Import policies for used trucks vary widely across African countries, creating market fragmentation and trade inefficiencies. While some governments impose strict age limits and high tariffs, others offer more lenient regulations. These inconsistencies lead to unpredictable costs for importers and hinder the flow of used trucks across the continent. Traders and buyers face challenges navigating regulatory requirements, which can delay transactions and reduce buyer confidence in certain Countrys.

Limited Access to Financing

Many buyers in the Africa used truck market are small business owners or individual operators who lack access to structured financing. The absence of tailored vehicle loan programs makes it difficult for buyers to afford even second-hand trucks, despite their lower prices. Traditional lenders often perceive these purchases as high risk due to the vehicle’s age and lack of documentation. Without adequate financial support, demand remains suppressed, especially in rural and underserved areas.

Lack of Reliable Vehicle Histories

Transparency in vehicle condition and usage history is a key concern for buyers of used trucks. In Africa, vehicles are often resold without full disclosure of previous repairs, mileage tampering, or accident histories. This lack of transparency affects buyer trust and can result in increased maintenance costs post-purchase. Buyers may end up with vehicles requiring extensive repair, reducing cost savings and leading to dissatisfaction. It also hampers the development of a formalized resale ecosystem.

Poor Road Infrastructure in Some Countrys

Although infrastructure development is growing, many areas still suffer from inadequate road conditions. Used trucks often face accelerated wear and tear when operating on unpaved or poorly maintained roads. This not only increases maintenance expenses but also shortens vehicle life cycles. Operators working in these Countrys require higher vehicle durability and frequent servicing, discouraging investment in older or lower-end used trucks that may not withstand harsh driving conditions.

Rising Maintenance and Spare Parts Costs

As the number of used trucks in operation increases, so does the demand for spare parts and maintenance services. However, parts availability can be inconsistent, especially for less common models or older vehicles. This results in rising repair costs and downtime, reducing operational efficiency. Lack of skilled mechanics further compounds the issue. High maintenance costs erode the cost advantage of buying used, particularly for budget-conscious operators.

Market Trends

Emergence of Digital Platforms for Used Truck Sales

The digitalization of vehicle sales has reached the used truck market in Africa. Online marketplaces are emerging that connect buyers and sellers directly, providing detailed listings, images, and even inspection reports. These platforms are reducing transaction friction and improving buyer confidence. Users can compare models, access pricing benchmarks, and communicate securely with sellers, increasing transparency and trust across the market.

Government Push Towards Vehicle Standardization

Several African nations are moving toward standardizing vehicle imports and enforcing inspection certificates. These regulatory efforts aim to reduce the inflow of damaged or unsafe vehicles and enhance road safety. As governments adopt stricter policies, used truck vendors are aligning with global standards to ensure compliance. This trend will likely improve the overall quality of trucks in circulation, benefiting long-term fleet sustainability.

Expanding Role of Aftermarket Services

With used trucks commanding a large share of the commercial vehicle landscape, the demand for aftermarket services such as maintenance, refurbishment, and spare parts distribution is rising. Service networks are expanding across key trade hubs to meet this need. Entrepreneurs are investing in service centers that specialize in older vehicle models, creating employment opportunities and strengthening the market ecosystem.

Preference for European and Japanese Brands

Buyers in Africa are increasingly favoring used trucks from specific countries known for durability and efficiency. Japanese and European brands are widely recognized for their reliability and fuel economy. This preference influences import patterns, as dealers target these markets for inventory. Familiarity with these vehicles also supports easier servicing and part sourcing, making them a preferred choice among repeat buyers.

Cross-Border Trade Expansion Under AfCFTA

The African Continental Free Trade Area is driving cross-border commerce, prompting logistics companies to expand Country fleets. Used trucks provide an accessible entry point for logistics providers seeking to tap into new trade corridors. Demand for reliable long-haul trucks that can handle diverse terrains and climates is growing, supported by harmonized trade policies and emerging logistics infrastructure.

Segmental Insights

Application Insights

The Africa used truck market serves a variety of industries, including construction, logistics, mining, and others. The construction sector relies heavily on used trucks for transporting raw materials such as cement, gravel, and steel to project sites. Trucks are also used to haul away debris and deliver prefabricated components, making them essential to both urban and rural development initiatives. In logistics, used trucks support Country distribution networks and last-mile delivery, providing cost-effective transportation solutions in both urban and peri-urban areas. The growing e-commerce sector has further increased the need for affordable fleet options to ensure timely deliveries.

In the mining industry, used trucks are deployed for hauling ore, machinery, and crew across challenging environments. These operations demand vehicles with durability and load-bearing capabilities, which many used heavy-duty trucks can fulfill. Other application areas include agriculture, where trucks are used to transport produce from farms to markets, and utility sectors where service providers use them for infrastructure maintenance. The diverse utility of used trucks across sectors underscores their value in Africa’s economic ecosystem.

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Country Insights

In 2024, South Africa emerged as the dominant Country in the Africa used truck market. The country benefits from a mature transportation sector, a well-developed road network, and a high demand for commercial vehicles across industries. South Africa’s strategic trade ports and logistical hubs attract a steady flow of imported used trucks, which are then distributed across southern and eastern Africa. The nation’s industrial base and mining activity further drive demand for specialized and heavy-duty vehicles.

Used truck auctions and trade shows in South Africa draw buyers from neighboring countries, enhancing cross-border trade volumes. South Africa also maintains structured vehicle inspection and registration processes, which instill confidence in buyers and promote formalized transactions. With strong domestic demand and its role as a re-export hub, South Africa continues to lead the market.

Recent Developments

• In 2023, Daimler Truck Southern Africa (DTSA) made a significant investment by opening its new head office in South Africa, with a total investment of around USD 10 million. This development marked a pivotal move for the company, reinforcing its commitment to the African market and boosting its operational capabilities in the Country. This strategic investment came shortly after the global split between Daimler AG’s truck and car divisions, allowing Daimler Truck AG to focus exclusively on its commercial vehicle sector.
• In August 2024, DTSA plans to expand its electric truck lineup in South Africa, introducing new models tailored for various commercial applications. This expansion aims to meet the growing demand for sustainable transportation solutions in the Country.
• In September 2024, Volvo Trucks announced plans to increase the use of low-CO₂-emission steel in its trucks. Produced by SSAB using recycled materials and fossil-free energy, this steel reduces CO₂ emissions by approximately 80% compared to conventional steel production methods

Key Market Players

• Volvo Group

• Daimler AG (Mercedes-Benz Trucks)

• MAN Truck & Bus SE

• Scania AB

• Isuzu Motors Ltd.

• Hino Motors Ltd.

• Navistar International Corporation

• Ford Motor Company

• Tata Motors Limited

• Ashok Leyland Limited

Report Scope:

In this report, the Africa Used Truck Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

Africa Used Truck Market, By Tonnage Capacity:

• 3.5 Tons to 7.5 Tons
• 7.5 Tons to 16 Tons
• 16 Tons to 30 Tons
• Above 30 Tons

Africa Used Truck Market, By Fuel:

• Diesel
• Petrol
• Others

Africa Used Truck Market, By Application:

• Construction
• Logistics
• Mining
• Others

Africa Used Truck Market, By Country:

• South Africa
• Egypt
• Morocco
• Libya
• Nigeria
• Kenya
• Angola
• Zimbabwe

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies presents in the Africa Used Truck Market.

Available Customizations:

Africa Used Truck Market report with the given market data, Tech Sci Research offers customizations according to the company’s specific needs. The following customization options are available for the report: -

Company Information

• Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to five).

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