A picture of a vacuum tanker for sale outside our depot in Avonmouth

Used Tankers For Sale

Investing in a used tanker can be a cost-effective way to expand your fleet without compromising on quality, if you buy from the right supplier. Whether you’re looking for a vacuum tanker, clean water carrier, or a specialist combination unit, knowing what to look for in a used vehicle is essential for making a smart purchase. We always have a number of used tankers for sale which have been bought from new and have reached the end of their hire journey.

At Dawsongroup, we supply a wide range of professionally maintained ex-hire tankers from industry-leading manufacturers, giving you the confidence of quality, reliability, and long-term performance.

What to Look for When Buying a Used Tanker

When buying a pre-owned tanker, it’s not just about price—condition, maintenance history, and spec matter just as much. Here’s what to check before committing:

  • Full-Service History – A well-documented maintenance history is vital. Look for vehicles that have been serviced regularly, with records of inspections, repairs, and parts replacements.
  • Tank and Pump Condition – Inspect the internal and external condition of the tank, vacuum or jetting pump, valves, and pipework. These are high-wear components and should be tested for pressure, suction performance, and leaks.
  • Chassis and Mileage – Evaluate the mileage, chassis age, and the truck’s overall mechanical health. A solid chassis from a trusted brand (e.g., DAF, Volvo, Scania, MAN) with low wear can extend the life of the tanker significantly.
  • Compliance and Certification – Ensure the vehicle complies with current regulations, including MOT, and any tank testing certifications (such as pressure or LOLER certificates for lifting gear).
  • Fit-for-Purpose Spec – Make sure the spec matches your intended use: pump capacity, tank volume, PTO configuration, storage, hose reels, and safety features. A high-spec unit may add value and efficiency to your operations.

Why Buy from Dawsongroup?

At Dawsongroup, our vehicles don’t just arrive on a lot and get sold—we own, operate, and maintain them throughout their working life. That means you’re buying a used tanker that’s been fleet-managed by professionals, serviced on time, and kept in top working condition.

  • Well-Maintained Ex-Hire Fleet – Every vehicle we sell is drawn from our own hire fleet and comes with a full service history, detailed usage records, and a proven track record in real-world operation.
  • Inspected and Ready to Work – Before any vehicle is sold, it can go through a comprehensive inspection and refurbishment process to ensure it’s ready for immediate deployment—reducing downtime for your business.
  • Expert Advice and Support – Our team understands the tanker industry. We’ll help you select the right unit for your application, and we’re always available to offer operational support and guidance.
  • Finance Options Available – We offer competitive finance packages across both new and used stock—making it easier to invest in the right equipment without straining your budget.

Tankers For Sale – Vehicle Options

We stock a wide variety of tanker types to suit all sectors of the environmental services industry:

  • Vacuum Tankers – For safe and efficient collection of liquid waste and sludge.
  • Clean Water Tankers – Ideal for potable water delivery or site supply.
  • Combination Units – Jetting and suction in a single vehicle, perfect for sewer and drainage work.
  • Medium Vacuum Units (MVCs) – High performance in a compact, manoeuvrable package.
  • High Vacuum Units (HVCs) – For more demanding industrial cleaning and hazardous waste. applications.
  • Recycler Units – Built for efficiency with on-board water recycling to reduce downtime and water use

Used Tankers For Sale – Manufacturers We Trust

At Dawsongroup, we only stock vehicles from manufacturers with proven reputations for quality and longevity. That includes:

  • Whale – A market leader in vacuum and combination units, known for innovation and now offering electric models too.
  • Bucher Municipal – Trusted for their recycler units and precision-engineered jetting systems.
  • Crossland Tankers – Known for clean water and vacuum tanker builds that meet the highest compliance and hygiene standards.
  • RTN Clayton Vallely – A long-standing UK manufacturer of high-specification vacuum and combination tankers.
  • VJ Engineering – Well-respected for robust engineering and adaptable builds tailored to a wide range of industrial and municipal applications.

Considerations When Buying a Tanker

Buying a used tanker is a strategic decision—one that can pay dividends if the vehicle is properly maintained, professionally inspected, and fit for purpose. With Dawsongroup, you don’t just get a used vehicle—you get quality, reliability, and the assurance of a trusted partner who knows the industry inside out.

Whether you’re looking for a vacuum tanker, a recycler, or a clean water delivery unit, we’ve got well-maintained, ready-to-work options available from the manufacturers you trust.

Contact our team today to find out more about our current stock and how we can help you grow your fleet with confidence.