Mid Size Buses

Used mid-size buses range from roughly $65,000 for a high-mileage Ford F-550 Starcraft with 25–30 passengers up to $270,000+ for a new or nearly-new Freightliner Star Rider or Grech Motors GM40. The most active part of the used market sits between $85,000 and $160,000 — covering 33–42 passenger Freightliner Glaval and Ford F-650 builds from 2013–2019 with 80,000–190,000 miles.

It depends on the specific vehicle's GVWR. Ford F-550 mid-size buses (25–32 passengers) typically fall under 26,001 lbs — no CDL required for you to operate them. Ford F-650 and all Freightliner-chassis coaches exceed that threshold. You'll need a Class B CDL with a Passenger (P) endorsement. Always read the data plate on the actual vehicle before you assume. The chassis model alone isn't enough.

The distinction is mostly capacity and chassis class. Shuttle buses typically seat 16–28 passengers on lighter cutaway or van platforms and are often CDL-exempt. Mid-size buses seat 25–45 passengers on heavier-duty chassis — Ford F-650, Freightliner S2 — with more robust body construction, larger luggage capacity, and features like reclining seats, panoramic windows, and full-size A/C. You'll find natural overlap in the 25–30 passenger range.

MFSAB stands for Multi-Function School Activity Bus — a vehicle that meets specific FMVSS safety standards for transporting students, including high-back padded seats, seat belts on every position, and specific mirror and lighting requirements. Whether you need an MFSAB instead of a standard shuttle depends on your state's student transport rules. Many states require MFSAB compliance for any vehicle transporting K–12 students on school-sponsored activities. Check your state's DOE or DOT rules before you buy.

Your inspection priority list: (1) air brake system — check for leaks and proper pressure build; (2) A/C system — verify all zones cool and check compressor belts; (3) door hardware — mid-size bus doors cycle thousands of times and wear fast; (4) ADA lift or ramp if equipped — cycle fully and check hydraulic seals; (5) transmission service records; (6) tire condition and sidewall date code, not just tread depth. Always request the full service history before you commit.

For high-cycle fleet use — 200+ operating days per year — the Freightliner Glaval with Cummins diesel and Allison transmission is the stronger platform. You get a more robust chassis, more capacity (up to 45 passengers), and a bus purpose-built for commercial stop-and-go. If your organization wants simpler maintenance through a domestic dealer network and doesn't need maximum capacity, the Ford F-650 is your practical choice — wider service availability and lower operating costs in most markets.