In today’s competitive market, catching the attention of potential customers is harder than ever. Between social media ads, TV commercials, and flashy online banners, people are bombarded with messages all day long. But one form of advertising has a unique edge — it moves with your audience.
We’re talking about billboard trucks — the mobile advertising solution that takes your message directly to the streets, festivals, events, and high-traffic areas. If you’ve been searching for a billboard truck for sale in Australia, you’re already on the right path to a powerful marketing tool.
But with so many options out there, how do you pick the one that’s perfect for your business? Let’s break it down step-by-step.
Before you even start browsing for a billboard truck, get clear on what you want it to achieve. Are you aiming for brand awareness? Do you want to promote a specific event or sale? Or are you looking for a long-term, city-wide campaign?
Knowing your goals will help you decide whether you need a basic printed-panel truck or a more dynamic digital display model. For example:
Short-term campaigns: A used truck with printed panels could be more cost-effective.
Long-term brand presence: A newer, digital LED billboard truck gives you the flexibility to update messages instantly.
Prices for billboard trucks in Australia can vary a lot. You’ll find everything from affordable second-hand models to high-end custom builds.
Here’s a rough guide:
Used billboard trucks: More budget-friendly, but may require maintenance.
New trucks: Higher upfront cost, but come with warranties and the latest features.
Digital billboard trucks: The most expensive option, but also the most versatile for changing campaigns on the go.
Remember, your budget should cover more than just the purchase price — think about insurance, maintenance, fuel, and any permits you might need.
One of the biggest decisions you’ll face is whether to go digital or stick with traditional printed billboards.
Traditional Billboard Trucks
Simple and effective.
Lower upfront cost.
Ideal for static campaigns that don’t need frequent updates.
Digital Billboard Trucks
LED screens that can display multiple ads.
Instant content changes — perfect for time-sensitive promotions.
Eye-catching, especially at night.
Your choice depends on how often you plan to change your advertising content and how much flexibility you need.
Bigger isn’t always better, but you do want a truck that makes an impact. The size of the billboard panels or screens should match your target audience and location.
If you’re planning to advertise in busy urban areas with tall buildings, a large format truck can stand out from the crowd.
For smaller towns or narrow streets, a compact truck might be easier to navigate while still drawing attention.
Always check visibility — the last thing you want is a design that’s too small or cluttered to read from a distance.
If you’re buying a second-hand truck, inspect it carefully. You don’t want your campaign halted by constant breakdowns.
Look out for:
Engine and transmission condition.
Electrical systems (especially for digital trucks).
Any rust or damage to the billboard panels.
Proper lighting for night visibility.
If possible, take it for a test drive to see how it handles and to check for any issues.
A billboard truck isn’t just about the ad space — the vehicle itself is part of your brand. Choose a design and colour scheme that reflects your business identity.
Some businesses wrap the entire truck in their branding, creating a moving 3D advertisement. Others focus on bold, simple designs that stand out from a distance. Whatever you choose, make sure it’s memorable and easy to read while the truck is moving.
Different states and councils in Australia have their own rules for mobile billboards. Before you hit the road, check local regulations on:
Where you can park the truck.
Whether you need specific permits for advertising.
Noise and light restrictions for digital trucks.
This will save you headaches and fines down the track.
Owning a billboard truck comes with ongoing expenses, including:
Fuel costs (especially if you’re covering long routes).
Driver wages if you’re not behind the wheel yourself.
Regular maintenance to keep the truck roadworthy.
Content production costs for your ads.
Plan these into your budget so you can keep your advertising rolling without financial strain.
When it’s time to buy, you have a few options:
Specialist dealers: Companies that sell trucks specifically for advertising use.
Private sellers: May offer lower prices but less warranty protection.
Online marketplaces: Good for finding both new and used models, but always check the seller’s reputation.
Custom builders: If you have unique needs, some companies can design and build a truck from scratch.
Think beyond your first campaign. A good billboard truck should serve you for years, so choose one that can adapt to different types of advertising. If your marketing strategy changes, you don’t want to be stuck with a truck that can’t keep up.
A versatile truck — whether digital or traditional — will give you more value in the long run.
A billboard truck can be a game-changer for your advertising strategy in Australia. Whether you go for a brand-new digital model or a second-hand traditional truck, the key is to match your choice to your business goals, budget, and audience.
By considering factors like size, visibility, running costs, and legal requirements, you’ll be able to invest in a vehicle that delivers strong returns for years to come.
If you’re ready to take the next step, companies like Running Board can help you bring your message to life on the road.