Selling a used truck in India can be a smooth, profitable experience—if you follow the right steps. In a market driven by high demand for logistics and commercial vehicles, platforms like Shriram Automall and CarTrade Exchange have emerged as trustworthy, transparent marketplaces. This step-by-step guide arms you with everything you need—from preparing your truck and documents to final payment—to sell old trucks confidently and quickly.

Why Sell a Used Truck in Today’s Market?

There are many reasons as to why you should sell your used truck in this market. Let us take you through the reasons for the same:

High Demand in Logistics & Transportation

India’s expanding e‑commerce, construction, and agriculture sectors fuel an unrelenting need for second-hand trucks. All-weather distribution routes, last-mile delivery, and small-scale fleet owners are on the lookout for reliable, cost-effective vehicles.

Cost-Efficiency of Old Trucks

A used truck represents a smart investment: significant savings versus a brand-new model, yet built tough and capable. For buyers, it’s the ideal balance of price and performance.

Eco-Friendly & Sustainable Choice

Extending the working life of old trucks helps reduce environmental impact. Minimal carbon footprint, fewer new-manufacturing emissions—it aligns with India’s sustainability goals.

Pre-Sale Preparations: Setting the Stage

Before selling the old truck, there are some very important pre-sale steps that shouldn’t be miss. Below mentioned is a check-list for the same:

Detailed Inspection of Your Truck

Start with a thorough physical and mechanical inspection. Check:

• Engine, transmission, and differential health

• Brakes, suspension, steering, tires

• Lights, indicators, cabin integrity

• Any rust spots or dents

If needed, get minor repairs done—better to fix small issues than negotiate huge deductions post-inspection.

Document Checklist

Have the following ready:

• Registration Certificate (RC book)

• Insurance papers up to date

• Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate

• Fitness certificate for commercial vehicles

• Owner’s ID and address proof

• Service and repair records

These build trust and reduce delays.

Estimating Market Price

Use online platforms to get a ballpark. Platforms like CarTrade Exchange offer transparent pricing insights for second-hand trucks. You’ll learn whether your vehicle is in the INR 8–10 lakh range, or higher, depending on make, model, condition, and usage.

Choosing the Right Platform: Shriram Automall vs CarTrade Exchange

Sometimes it could become very overwhelming and confusing when it comes for choosing the right platform for selling your used truck. The right platform however is somewhere just around the corner:

Why Platforms Matter

Selling privately may yield a higher price—but it also costs time, effort, and involves negotiation risks. Trusted online platforms:

• Simplify listings (photos, specs, mileage)

• Attract vetted buyers (dealers, fleet operators)

• Offer valuation tools and inspection services

Let’s compare two top platforms:

1. Shriram Automall

A verified member of the Shriram Finance group, it specializes in commercial and off‑road vehicles, providing a seamless auction mechanism.

Key Highlights:

• Panel inspection across 200+ parameters

• Auction-style format ensures market-driven pricing

• Transparent bidding; real-time auction access

• Handling of HSN codes and GST for dealers

• Quick turnaround time (7–15 days)

• NOC guidance, title transfer support

Best For: Sellers preferring structured bidding with verified buyers and minimal exposure.

2. CarTrade Exchange

A leading vehicle exchange portal with a national dealer and fleet-buyer network.

Key Highlights:

• Fair-value estimates based on real-time data

• Options: spot sale (instant offer) or auction

• End-to-end assistance: testing, documentation

• Live chat support, transparent fees

• Coverage in over 300 cities

Best For: Sellers seeking flexibility—fixed price, quote-and-sell, or auction—with solid support.

Step 1 – Create Your Listing

Register & Upload Info

Sign up on either platform using your mobile and email. Provide:

• Make, model, year, variant

• Mileage, fuel type, transmission

• VIN, chassis number

High-Quality Photos

Essential for good listings:

1. Front view

2. Side angles

3. Interior cabin

4. Engine bay

5. Tyres & odometer

6. Close-ups of wear, dents, modifications

A total of 25–30 clear images. Good lighting and clean background work wonders.

Add Technical Specs

List: Engine cc, horsepower, load capacity, tyre size, current odometer.
 Clearly mention service history and recent maintenance.

Step 2 – Inspection & Valuation

Physical Inspection Processes

Shriram Automall and CarTrade Exchange appoint professionals to verify:

• Mechanical integrity

• Exterior/interior condition

• Mileage accuracy

• Ownership authenticity

Shriram uses a standard 200+ point checklist; CarTrade Exchange evaluates 80–100 points.

Evaluation Outcome

Post-inspection, expect a verified report and valuation.

• Shriram: sets a reserve price and schedules an auction

• CarTrade: provides two selling options:

  • Spot sale: instant guaranteed offer

  • Auction: contested process with bids

Step 3 – Choose the Sales Option

Auction Sale (For Maximum Price)

Live or timed auctions are held online, with Shriram Automall or CarTrade broadcasting to network dealers.

• Out-of-station experts can bid

• Escrow-like mechanisms ensure funds release to the escrow agent

• Invoicing and transfer managed by the platform

Spot Sale (Quick & Fixed)

With CarTrade Exchange, “spot sale” gives instant quote based on inspection, offering low-risk, quick closure.

• Funds transferred in 24–48 hours

• Great if you want to sell old trucks rapidly

Step 4 – Finalising the Sale

Accepting the Offer

• For any winning bid above reserve price:

  • Platform facilitates deal closure

• For spot sale: immediate acceptance triggers payment
   Review all chargeheads: platform fees, GST, transfer charges.

Secure Payment

Platforms handle ➝

• Escrow creation

• Secure funds transfer

• Release only after all transfer formalities

Shriram disburses within 3–5 working days post-auction. CarTrade handles spot-sale payments in 48 hours.

Step 5 – Title & Ownership Transfer

Documentation Support

Platform teams will assist in:

• RC transfer to buyer’s name

• NOC from financiers (if applicable)

• Fitness certification (for heavy vehicles)

• Insurance assignment, if requested

Transferring the Vehicle

Arrange the logistics—vehicle drop-off, handover, sign documents—
 shrug off paperwork stress:

• Buyer arranges pickup or inspection

• Final signature exchange

• Hand over all original documents

Post-Sale Checklist

After the selling of vehicle also, there is a set procedure to follow for ensuring a smoot post-sale experience. Let us take a look:

Remove Personal Items & Declarations

Clear out belongings. Inform RTO about sale. Notify insurer and cancel or transfer policy.

Feedback & Ratings

Leaving ratings helps improve platform trust and gives feedback to future users.

Tax Compliance

Report sale in your returns. Deduct capital gains tax if applicable.

In-Depth Comparison: Shriram Automall vs CarTrade Exchange

• Auction: Better if you can wait for potentially higher bids.

• Spot sale: Ideal for those who need to sell used trucks instantly.

Expert Tips for a Successful Sale

Now that you are aware of all the old truck selling process, it’s important to know some tips too. Let us give you some very useful tips for a successful sale:

Timing Matters

Avoid monsoon disruptions. Peak market: post-harvest and pre-festive periods (October–December).

Maintenance Before Sale

Polish, engine-flush, tire check, minor replacements—invest now, get better offers.

Transparency = Trust

Disclose every dent, accident—even a small scratch builds credibility.

Use Both Platforms Strategically

Try CarTrade Exchange for spot quotes; list on Shriram Automall for auction later—maximize reach.

Prepare for Queries

Buyers will ask about servicing, tyre life, fuel efficiency. Anticipate and document your answers.

Real-Life Seller Experiences

Let’s look at some real-life examples for true motivation:

Case Study: Ajay’s 2012 Mahindra Blazo

Ajay listed his 2012 Blazo on CarTrade Exchange: vehicle inspected → spot sale → ₹9.2 lakh offer → closed in 36 hours → ₹9 lakhs in hand after fees.

Case Study: Priya’s Tata Prima

Priya used Shriram Automall: auction attracted three bidders, final sale at ₹11.5 lakh—₹50k above reserve. Documents processed within 10 days.

Final Words: Your Road to Selling is Clear

Selling a used truck or old truck in India doesn’t need to be overwhelming. Follow these steps:

1. Inspect and ready your truck

2. Prepare and organize documents

3. Choose between Shriram Automall (for auctions) or CarTrade Exchange (for spot or auction)

4. List with quality photos and full specs

5. Get inspection and choose sale option

6. Finalize sale, receive secure payment

7. Transfer title, wrap up formalities

By tapping into trusted platforms, you not only get better deals but also save valuable time. Start your journey today—and join hundreds of truck owners who’ve sold efficiently, profitably, and securely.

Conclusion

With robust demand, rising logistics needs, and high-quality online platforms, now is the time to sell used trucks in India. Whether you have a well-maintained second-hand truck or a rugged old truck, Shriram Automall and CarTrade Exchange provide the support, transparency, and reach to optimize outcomes. Don’t wait—prepare your truck and dive in. Your buyer is ready to roll!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the best platform to sell a used truck in India?
 Shriram Automall and CarTrade Exchange are two of the most trusted platforms. Shriram Automall is ideal for auction-based selling with structured processes, while CarTrade Exchange offers both spot sale and auction options with extensive dealer networks.

2. What documents are required to sell my used truck?
 You’ll need the Registration Certificate (RC), insurance papers, PUC certificate, fitness certificate (for commercial vehicles), ID/address proof, and service records.

3. How do I estimate the market value of my old truck?
 You can use valuation tools available on platforms like CarTrade Exchange or compare recent auction results on Shriram Automall. Factors like make, model, condition, and mileage impact the price.

4. Can I sell my truck without repairing minor damages?
 Yes, but it's advisable to fix minor issues like dents, lights, or tyres to avoid steep deductions during inspection and to attract better offers.

5. How long does it take to sell a truck through Shriram Automall or CarTrade Exchange?
 Shriram Automall usually completes the process within 7–15 days after the auction. CarTrade Exchange offers a “spot sale” feature with payment in 24–48 hours.

6. Is it safe to sell online through these platforms?
 Yes, both platforms use secure payment systems, provide professional inspection, and assist with documentation and ownership transfer to ensure a safe, transparent transaction.

7. What are the payment timelines after selling?
 For auctions via Shriram Automall, payment is typically disbursed within 3–5 working days. CarTrade’s spot sale transfers funds within 48 hours of deal confirmation.

8. Do these platforms help with RC and ownership transfer?
 Absolutely. Both platforms offer end-to-end assistance for RC transfer, No Objection Certificates (if under loan), and insurance updates.

9. Can I sell my truck if it's under a loan or finance agreement?
 Yes, but you must first obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your financier. The platforms can help guide you through this process.

10. What should I do after the sale is completed?
 Clear all personal items, notify the RTO, cancel or transfer your insurance, and report the sale for tax compliance. Leaving a review on the platform also helps other sellers.