While some companies prefer going for brand new equipment when the need arises to replace the old ones, there may be some times that you may need to buy used equipment. Buying used equipment helps you save on cost, but it could sometimes be a more stressful and time-consuming than buying a new one.
It would help if you looked out for some things when buying secondhand equipment, including heavy machinery. This includes the quality, the price, and the buying experience. In this article, I will be showing you the top five tips to help you make the most out of your investment when looking to purchase used equipment that will serve.
#1: Check If It Has the Exact Requirement That You Need
Check tthe equipment’s size, model, capabilities, and attachments before you make a decision. Sometimes, there may be more than one option that satisfies your needs. In that case, do thorough research before making the final decision. That equipment works well for the previous user doesn’t mean it will do the same for you. So, take your time to analyze your requirements before making the purchase carefully.
#2: Update Yourself About Equipment History
If there is anything you need to consider when buying used equipment carefully, it is the history of such equipment. Make sure the buyer is the genuine owner and not stolen equipment. Ensure there is full payment on the title of the equipment, or else it cannot be transferred to you. A good way to determine this is to check the documentation of the equipment.
The Internet has made things easier. You can conduct a check online or contact your bank to run a background check on the equipment to know if there is a lien against it or if it is stolen. You can also get the PIN or the serial number of the machine and send it to the police department to help you do some investigation. When it comes to matters like this, you can’t be too careful.
#3: Check the Operating Hours of The Equipment
You need to know how long the equipment has been used and how long it can operate. Even though this may not be enough to confirm if the equipment is in good condition or not, it is a good place to start. It is not advisable to buy construction equipment that can barely work for a couple of hours.
However, if you still feel like buying such a machine, this is what you should do. Do a quick cost/benefit calculation to determine if you can realize the money invested into accepting the used device, or if you should buy a new one once and for all. If the maintenance cost is too much, then there is no point in buying it. Who will want to buy a machine that will break down more often?
However, don’t forget to regularly maintain the equipment to help it serve you longer.
#4: What About the Fluids?
You also need to check some fluids like transmission fluid, hydraulic fluid, engine oil, coolant, etc. The fluid present in the equipment can help you better understand the machine’s present condition and maintain it over time.
If you find the fluids low or dirty, it simply means that the previous owner has not followed a standard maintenance schedule. You can also look out for water in the engine, which can also be a sign of a more critical issue.
#5: Accuracy
If your secondhand purchase includes important things like truck scales, you may need to check your trust scales for accuracy. If the truck’s precision is having issues, it can cause errors that adversely affect your business’s reputation. Ensure your truck scale is well-calibrated and works at optimal efficiency as you are buying it.
Final note
Before I close the article, this last point will also greatly help you. And that is always watching out for signs of wear and tear. Although it is normal for used equipment to wear and tear signs, you need to check if it is not anything major. Check if you can find any hairline cracks, rust, or other damages that may cause a major breakdown in the nearest future.
