18-year-old semi sells for $280,000 and sends a clear message to anyone who expects older trucks to be worthless

An 18-year-old semi truck recently sold for $280,000, and it could be a sign that older trucks could hold their value well.

If you were a betting person, you might not think that a semi-truck that’s nearly 20 years old would be worth a lot of money.

However, one recently sold at Ulmer Auction Services for $280,000, which was a one-owner 2007 Peterbilt 379 that had just over 20,000 miles on the clock.

Not only does it show how badly someone wanted it, but also that some old trucks are worth more than you’d think.

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Why this semi truck sold for such a large sum of money

The truck itself had just one owner since it was built in 2007, and its low mileage was certainly a factor in its price.

It was also built pre-DEF, as in before diesel exhaust fluid became mandatory in Class 8 semis.

Basically, it’s an emissions system that was unpopular with owners and drivers as it led to higher operating costs and poorer reliability, but this truck did not have it.

On top of the low mileage, the truck was incredibly clean, and it had always lived undercover when not in use.

It was a remarkable sale, and it’s clear these low-mileage trucks are very desirable.

Many will be wondering if this is now a new trend with pre-DEF and low-mileage semis.

More trucks could sell for these high prices

This higher price for second-hand semi trucks appears to be a new one.

Brand new trucks are not as popular as second-hand examples.

These older trucks have often proved themselves to be very reliable, with plenty of years of service still in them.

For the most part, a second-hand truck will also be cheaper than a brand new one.

In December 2025, a 2000 John Deere 8210 tractor was sold for $133,250 with very low hours of service.

While not a semi, it highlighted the demand for second-hand utility vehicles and workhorses.

Fleet operators and farmers have a particular eye for these pre-DEF machines.

If demand increases, the prices paid for these trucks and other vehicles could soar even higher.

So while it might be isolated for now, the $280,000 for this Peterbilt could become the new norm for semis.

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