Snow Plows For Sale On Craigslist: Your Ultimate Buyer’s Guide

Snow Plows For Sale On Craigslist: Your Ultimate Buyer’s Guide cars.truckstrend.com

Winter’s relentless embrace can turn a beautiful snowfall into a daunting challenge, especially for homeowners, small businesses, and property managers. Clearing snow quickly and efficiently becomes a necessity, not just for convenience but for safety and accessibility. While brand new snow plows come with a hefty price tag, an increasingly popular and economical alternative is to explore the vast marketplace of used equipment. Among the most accessible and diverse platforms for this is Craigslist, a digital bulletin board where local sellers list everything from vintage furniture to, yes, snow plows.

"Snow Plows For Sale On Craigslist" represents a unique opportunity to acquire essential winter equipment at a fraction of the cost of new. It’s a treasure trove for savvy buyers looking for a deal, a specific model, or simply a reliable workhorse to get them through the season. However, like any online classifieds platform, it comes with its own set of considerations, requiring a discerning eye and a strategic approach. This comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge and practical advice to navigate Craigslist effectively, ensuring your next snow plow purchase is a smart investment rather than a costly mistake.

Snow Plows For Sale On Craigslist: Your Ultimate Buyer’s Guide

Why Buy a Snow Plow on Craigslist? The Unbeatable Advantages

The allure of purchasing a used snow plow from Craigslist extends far beyond mere cost savings. For many, it’s a practical and efficient way to meet immediate needs without breaking the bank.

• Significant Cost Savings: This is undoubtedly the primary driver. Used plows can be found for 30% to 70% less than their new counterparts, making snow removal accessible to a wider range of budgets. For occasional use or a backup unit, the savings are substantial.
• Wide Variety and Availability: Craigslist hosts an incredible diversity of plows. You’ll find everything from light-duty ATV plows to heavy-duty commercial truck plows, different brands (Fisher, Western, Boss, Meyer, SnowEx, etc.), and various blade types (straight, V-plow, pusher). This broad selection increases your chances of finding the exact plow suitable for your vehicle and needs.
• Immediate Local Access: Unlike ordering a new plow which might involve shipping delays, Craigslist connects you with local sellers. This means you can often inspect, purchase, and pick up a plow within a day or two, which is invaluable when an unexpected snowstorm is on the horizon.
• Opportunity for Negotiation: Private sellers on Craigslist are often more open to negotiation than traditional dealerships. This gives you leverage, especially if you can point out minor flaws or if the plow has been listed for a while.



• Eco-Friendly Choice: Buying used equipment is a form of recycling. It extends the life of a product, reduces demand for new manufacturing, and lessens your environmental footprint.

Navigating the Marketplace: Your Craigslist Search Strategy

To find the perfect plow, you need an effective search strategy. Craigslist’s interface is straightforward, but knowing how to maximize your search can save you time and unearth better deals.

1. Keyword Mastery: Don’t just search for "snow plow." Use a variety of terms: "plow," "truck plow," "ATV plow," "UTV plow," "skid steer plow," "pusher box," and specific brand names like "Fisher plow," "Western plow," "Boss plow," "Meyer plow." Also, include your vehicle type (e.g., "F-150 plow," "Ram 2500 plow") to narrow down compatibility.
2. Location Filters: Always use the location filter to search within a reasonable radius of your home or business. While a great deal an hour away might be tempting, factor in the time and cost of travel, especially for a large item like a plow.
3. Price Range: Set a minimum and maximum price range to filter out listings that are clearly out of your budget or unrealistically cheap (which can sometimes signal a scam).
4. Check Regularly: Good deals go fast. Set a routine to check new listings daily, or even several times a day during peak seasons.



5. Expand Your Search (Cautiously): If your local area is dry, consider checking adjacent Craigslist regions. Just remember the travel implications.

Types of Snow Plows You’ll Find and What They’re For

Craigslist offers a diverse range of plow types, each suited for different applications and vehicles. Understanding these categories is crucial for making the right choice.

• Truck-Mounted Plows:
  • Straight Blades: The most common and economical. Excellent for pushing snow straight ahead or to the side.
  • V-Plows: Offer superior snow handling, capable of "V-ing" snow out, straight pushing, or scooping. Ideal for deep snow and commercial applications.
  • Pusher Boxes/Containment Plows: Large box-like attachments designed to "push" and "contain" large volumes of snow. Primarily for skid steers, loaders, or heavy-duty trucks in large parking lots.
  • Brands: Fisher, Western, Boss, Meyer, SnowEx, Sno-Way, Curtis.
  • Mounting Systems: Crucial for compatibility. Most modern plows use quick-attach systems (e.g., Fisher Minute Mount 2, Western Ultramount, Boss RT3). Older systems might require more involved mounting.
• ATV/UTV Plows: Smaller, lighter-duty plows designed for recreational vehicles. Best for residential driveways and light commercial paths. They typically use a winch for lifting and manual or electric angling.
• Tractor/Skid Steer Plows: Heavy-duty blades or pusher boxes that attach to the front of tractors or skid steers. Ideal for large properties, commercial lots, and areas with significant snowfall. They often utilize the vehicle’s hydraulic system for operation.

The Critical Inspection Checklist: What to Look For Before You Buy

This is arguably the most important step. A thorough inspection can save you from buying a costly headache. Always insist on seeing the plow in person. If possible, ask the seller to have it hooked up to a truck or power source so you can see it operate.

1. Blade Condition:
   • Rust and Corrosion: Surface rust is common; deep, pitting rust is a red flag. Check for rust on the moldboard, ribs, and frame.
   • Cracks or Welds: Look for cracks, especially around mounting points, hinges, and the blade’s leading edge. Poorly executed welds indicate past damage or shoddy repairs.
   • Cutting Edge: Inspect the wear bar (cutting edge). Is it worn down significantly? Does it need immediate replacement?
2. Hydraulics (for hydraulic plows):
   • Leaks: Check cylinders, hoses, and the pump unit for any signs of hydraulic fluid leaks. A small drip can indicate a bigger problem.
   • Pump Operation: Listen for unusual noises. Does it lift and angle smoothly and quickly?
   • Cylinder Rods: Ensure cylinder rods are clean and free of pitting or rust, which can damage seals.
3. Electrical System:
   • Wiring Harness: Check for frayed wires, exposed copper, or shoddy repairs. Ensure all connectors are intact.
   • Lights: Test all plow lights.
   • Controller: Ensure the handheld or dashboard controller is functional and all buttons respond correctly.
4. Mounting Frame and Subframe:
   • Bends and Cracks: These are critical structural components. Look for any deformation, cracks, or excessive wear where the plow attaches to the truck.
   • Pins and Hardware: Are all necessary pins, bolts, and quick-attach components present and in good condition? Missing or bent pins can be a sign of hard use.
5. Wear Parts and Accessories:
   • Plow Shoes/Skids: Check their condition. They protect the cutting edge.
   • Springs: Ensure trip springs (on trip-edge plows) are intact and not stretched or broken.
   • Hydraulic Fluid/Oil: Ask when it was last changed or topped off.
6. Overall Condition and History:
   • Signs of Abuse: Excessive dents, scrapes, or areas that look like they’ve been repeatedly hit.
   • Maintenance History: Ask the seller about its usage, how often it was maintained, and why they are selling it.

The Buying Process: From Inquiry to Haul-Away

Once you’ve found a promising listing and conducted your initial assessment, here’s how to navigate the purchase.

1. Initial Contact: Send a concise, polite message. Ask specific questions that weren’t answered in the ad (e.g., "What year is the plow?" "What truck was it on?" "Are all mounting components included?"). This helps gauge the seller’s responsiveness and honesty.
2. Schedule a Viewing: Arrange to see the plow in daylight. Bring a friend or someone knowledgeable about plows if you’re not an expert.
3. Test Everything: If possible, test the hydraulics (up, down, angle left/right), lights, and controller. Listen for strange noises.
4. Negotiation: Be prepared to negotiate. If you find issues during inspection, use them to justify a lower offer. Research comparable prices for similar used plows. Start with an offer slightly lower than what you’re willing to pay.
5. Payment: Always use cash for Craigslist transactions. Avoid checks, money orders, or wire transfers, which are often associated with scams. Bring the exact amount or slightly more than your target price.
6. Bill of Sale: For significant purchases like a plow, always get a simple bill of sale. It should include the item description, price, date, and seller’s and buyer’s names and signatures. State "Sold As-Is" clearly.
7. Transportation: Plan how you will transport the plow. A truck or trailer is usually necessary. Ensure your vehicle can safely handle the weight.

Potential Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Craigslist can be a fantastic resource, but it’s not without its risks. Awareness is your best defense.

• Scams: Be wary of deals that seem "too good to be true." Red flags include sellers who refuse to meet in person, demand unusual payment methods (wire transfers, gift cards), or have vague descriptions with no actual photos.
• Hidden Damage or Missing Parts: This is the most common issue. A quick glance might miss a cracked frame or a failing hydraulic pump. Always inspect thoroughly. Confirm all essential components (controller, wiring harness, mounting hardware, truck-side harness) are included. Replacing these can be very expensive.
• Vehicle Compatibility Issues: This is a major pitfall. Snow plows are designed for specific vehicle makes, models, and sometimes even trim levels and years. The mounting system for a Ford F-150 will not fit a Ram 1500, and often not even a different year F-150. Verify compatibility before you even look at the plow. Research the plow model and what vehicles it fits, and confirm with the seller.
• No Warranty/As-Is: Understand that used plows from private sellers are almost always sold "as-is." There’s no warranty or guarantee once you drive away. Your thorough inspection is your only safeguard.
• Stolen Equipment: While rare, it’s possible. If a deal seems suspiciously cheap or the seller is overly eager to sell without answering questions, exercise caution.

Representative Craigslist Snow Plow Price Ranges (Used)

Please note: Prices are highly variable based on geographic location, season (higher in fall/winter), condition, age, brand, and market demand. This table provides typical ranges you might encounter for a functional used plow on Craigslist.

Plow Type/Brand Category	Condition (Used)	Typical Craigslist Price Range (USD)	Key Considerations
ATV/UTV Plows	Fair to Good	$300 – $800	Often manual lift or small electric winch. Best for light, residential snow. May require specific mounting kit for your ATV/UTV.
	Good to Excellent	$800 – $1,500	More robust, often with electric or hydraulic lift/angle. Look for complete wiring and controls.
Light-Duty Truck Plows (e.g., Meyer HomePlow, smaller Fisher/Western for 1/2-ton trucks)	Fair	$800 – $1,500	Older models, manual angling or basic electric lift/angle. Expect some rust, wear on cutting edge. May need new lights/wiring.
	Good	$1,500 – $2,500	Functional, decent cosmetic condition. Good for occasional residential or light commercial use. Ensure truck-side harness is included.
Medium-Duty Truck Plows (e.g., Fisher Minute Mount 2, Western Ultramount, Boss HTX/Sport-Duty for 3/4-ton trucks)	Fair	$1,500 – $2,500	Significant wear, potential for hydraulic leaks or electrical issues. Good for parts or if you’re handy with repairs.
	Good	$2,500 – $4,000	Common workhorse plows. Fully functional, moderate wear. Often the sweet spot for value. Verify all components are present.
	Excellent	$4,000 – $6,000+	Newer models, well-maintained, lower hours. Often includes truck-side harness, lights, and controller.
Heavy-Duty Truck Plows (e.g., Boss V-Plows, Fisher XV2, Western Prodigy for 1-ton+ trucks)	Fair	$3,000 – $5,000	Older, heavy commercial use. May require significant overhaul (pumps, cylinders). Price reflects potential for major repairs.
	Good	$5,000 – $8,000	Solid commercial-grade plows. Expect some cosmetic wear. Good for active commercial operations.
	Excellent	$8,000 – $12,000+	Newer, low hours, excellent condition. Often from businesses upgrading. Can rival new prices for older models.
Skid Steer/Tractor Plows (Pusher boxes, straight blades)	Fair to Good	$1,000 – $3,000	Basic, older pushers or smaller blades. Check frame integrity and mounting plate.
	Good to Excellent	$3,000 – $6,000+	Larger, commercial-grade, often with hydraulic angle. Ensure hydraulic lines and cylinders are sound.
Plow Parts/Accessories (Pumps, cylinders, wiring, controllers, cutting edges)	Varies	$50 – $500	Essential if you’re repairing a plow or need a specific component. Verify compatibility carefully.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Buying Snow Plows on Craigslist

Q1: Is it safe to buy a snow plow on Craigslist?
A1: Yes, with caution. Always meet in a public place during daylight, bring a friend, and inspect the item thoroughly before exchanging money. Trust your instincts.

Q2: How do I know if a plow will fit my truck?
A2: This is critical. Research the specific plow model and year, and compare it to the mounting requirements for your truck’s make, model, year, and often trim level. Many plow manufacturers have compatibility guides online. Ask the seller what vehicle the plow was previously on.

Q3: What if parts are missing, like the controller or wiring harness?
A3: Factor in the cost of replacement. Controllers, wiring harnesses, and truck-side mounting kits can be incredibly expensive, sometimes costing hundreds to over a thousand dollars. If key components are missing, the "deal" might not be a deal at all.

Q4: Can I test the plow before buying it?
A4: Absolutely insist on it. If the seller won’t allow you to see it operate (lift, lower, angle), proceed with extreme caution or walk away. This is your best way to check hydraulics and electrical systems.

Q5: What’s a fair price for a used snow plow on Craigslist?
A5: A fair price depends heavily on the plow’s condition, age, brand, and type. Research similar listings on Craigslist and other used equipment sites (like Facebook Marketplace or local equipment dealers) to get a sense of the market value. Compare it to the cost of a new plow.

Q6: Should I buy a used plow or save up for a new one?
A6: If budget is a primary concern, or if you only need the plow for occasional, light-duty use, a used plow from Craigslist can be a fantastic value. If you need a plow for critical commercial operations, require a warranty, or prefer peace of mind, a new plow might be a better investment.

Q7: What maintenance should I do after buying a used plow?
A7: Upon purchase, it’s wise to:

• Change the hydraulic fluid and filter.
• Grease all pivot points.
• Inspect all electrical connections for corrosion.
• Check and tighten all bolts and fasteners.
• Inspect the cutting edge and trip springs for wear.
• Test all lights and controller functions.

Conclusion: Clearing the Path to a Smart Purchase

Buying a snow plow on Craigslist can be a highly rewarding experience, offering substantial savings and access to a diverse inventory that local dealerships might not provide. From robust truck-mounted units to agile ATV plows, the digital classifieds hold potential treasures for anyone looking to conquer winter’s challenges efficiently.

However, success hinges on a blend of diligence, informed decision-making, and a healthy dose of skepticism. By understanding the different types of plows, meticulously inspecting potential purchases, knowing how to navigate the negotiation and payment process, and being aware of common pitfalls, you empower yourself to make a wise investment. A well-chosen used snow plow from Craigslist isn’t just a piece of equipment; it’s a tool that grants you control over the elements, ensuring clear paths and peace of mind throughout the snowy season. Approach the hunt wisely, and you’ll be well on your way to pushing back winter with confidence.