If you’ve been researching auction sites for commercial vehicles, you’ve likely come across the terms rebuilt title and salvage title. And while salvage title is probably more widely known, when looking into salvage semi trucks for sale, understanding the difference between the two is important. In fact, it may not be known that a rebuilt title was once considered salvage and has since been refurbished. 

So, a rebuilt title vs. a salvage title: What exactly is a rebuilt title? How does it compare to a salvage title? And what are the primary differences between the two? We dive into all the details below. 

What is a salvage title?

A salvage title is when a vehicle has been in an accident or damaged and the repair costs outweigh its market value. This normally happens when an insurance company writes off the vehicle as unrepairable. The threshold for what is considered damaged beyond repair varies by state, so ensure that you understand your state’s laws. 

Some of the more common reasons why a semi truck might have a salvage title are accident-related and weather damage. In some cases, salvage title vehicles are in much better condition than one would think, but their negative reputation can reduce their market value. 

Some semi trucks - given a salvage title - can be safe to drive while others may not be due to extensive damage. What is considered “totaled” depends on the insurance company - in some instances there may be no actual damage to the frame or engine. At this point, the salvage vehicle is typically sold by the insurer to a third party interested in repairing the truck or breaking it down for parts.

What is a rebuilt title?

A semi truck with a rebuilt title means that the vehicle was once salvaged and has since been refurbished. The  title is awarded once the vehicle has been deemed ready for the road. This process is done by a state agency, and once awarded, the vehicle can be registered and insured. One downside to purchasing a semi truck with a rebuilt title is that it will usually command a lower price upon resale. 

Rebuilt Title vs. Salvage Title: 

While there isn’t a right answer, there is an option with less risk. If you want to explore trucks with a rebuilt title, here are a few things to consider. 

Never assume with a rebuilt title. Ask the seller as many questions as you need to cover the semi truck’s history and a detailed list of how it has been repaired. Your purchase is an investment and it’s within your right to know if it will pay off. 

Serious dealers should understand what buyers of semi trucks are looking for. Don’t hesitate to ask if there are photos or documentation. The more transparent they are, the more likely they are a trustworthy seller. 

In the case of a salvage vehicle, the damage is pretty well documented - and in most cases visible. When dealing with rebuilt titles, it may not be apparent what the primary issue was and how well it was fixed. In a sense, there is some risk involved. 

Finally, consider hiring an inspector. Our salvage vehicles come certified by licensed dealers. If you are buying a rebuilt semi truck from a third party, you may not know what you should be looking for and a professional should help you navigate your purchase.

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Heavy Salvage offers the industry’s most trusted system of buying and selling transportation salvage. We specialize in connecting verified buyers to certified sellers of wrecked or salvaged semi-trucks, trailers, equipment or other heavy duty specialty vehicles with insurance companies and certified sellers. Check out hundreds of certified heavy salvage today.