Top 5 tractor units for European runs: what to choose on the secondary market

Every year, carriers who "drive to Europe" turn more and more often to the secondary market. The reasons are quite simple – rising prices for new equipment and increasingly strict environmental standards. Working routes to Germany, France, or other EU countries is no longer possible without Euro-5/Euro-6 standards, so a compliant tractor unit is a basic necessity for earning a living.

Top 5 tractor units for European runs on the secondary market

The leaders by number of listings remain models from brands such as Volvo, Scania, MAN, Mercedes-Benz and DAF. Data from the ICCT European Heavy Duty Vehicle Market Development 2025 report confirms their dominance specifically in the long-haul tractor segment. These brands form the backbone of EU fleets, and therefore appear most often on Ukraine's secondary market once leasing programs end.

Volvo FH is one of the most popular tractor units for European runs thanks to its D13-series engines. On the EU secondary market, 2018–2020 units are priced around $35,000–55,000, while at tirkomis comparable models go for $28,000–45,000 depending on condition and mileage. Resale liquidity is high — Volvo resells well even with mileage above 900,000–1,100,000 km.

Scania R/S-Series, with its DC13 engines, stands out for durability and stable performance. On the European secondary market they cost $40,000–60,000, while at our commission yard — $32,000–48,000. The model often holds a more stable residual value, which matters at resale, and has an extensive service network across Europe, which makes it popular for international haulage.

MAN TGX offers a balance of price and quality. In Europe, 2018–2019 units go for $30,000–45,000, while at tirkomis — $24,000–38,000. Demand among mid-tier carriers is steady. A sturdy frame and reliable transmission make it a practical choice for the motorway.

Mercedes-Benz Actros is known for its safety technologies and driver-assistance systems on international runs (Active Brake Assist, adaptive cruise control). On the EU secondary market — $35,000–55,000, with us — $27,000–44,000. Liquidity is high, but it's worth paying particular attention to the service history of the electronics.

DAF XF is often offered on the secondary market at a more attractive price. In Europe, 2017–2019 tractor units cost $28,000–42,000, while at tirkomis — $20,000–35,000. Fuel efficiency makes the DAF a good deal for small and medium-sized businesses.

The best-value option for starting out

If you summarize the data on price, remaining lifespan and liquidity, then in 2026 the DAF XF looks like the most cost-effective starting option for those entering European runs on a limited budget. It's cheaper up front, retains enough mileage potential, and meets Euro-5/Euro-6 requirements.

Volvo and Scania can offer better residual value in the long run, while Mercedes and MAN provide extra technical features and comfort. But for starting out, minimizing upfront costs and maximizing resale liquidity, the DAF XF offers the best overall balance.

All our tractor units are available in the tirkomis catalog.