USED HEAVY EQUIPMENT: TIPS & TRICKS FOR USED EQUIPMENT BUYERS

Are you in the market for used heavy equipment?

Maybe you’ve been buying equipment for years, or maybe it’s your first time around the block. Regardless, buying used can be a smart financial move for your business. However, it can also be overwhelming, frustrating, and even risky if you don’t know what to look for.

From research to inspection, this article will walk you through all the steps, tips, and tricks to know in advance to make an informed decision on your “new” used equipment. So, grab a cup of coffee or a Redbull – let’s dig in!

What are the benefits to buying used heavy equipment?

Of course, there are many benefits to buying new heavy equipment as well, but that’s a blog for another time!

in the rest of this article, we will hit on important questions to ask while buying used construction equipment and steps to take to mitigate your potential risk.

What kind of use heavy equipment can you find?

When shopping for used equipment, you will see all types of machines that have been used for various purposes.

You will see used excavators, used dozers, used wheel loaders, used skid steers, used tractors, and just about any other used machinery you can imagine! The used heavy equipment you find will be from all the major manufacturers like Caterpillar, Bobcat, Komatsu, John Deere, Kubota, and SANY.

So, whether you’re looking for used farm equipment, used construction equipment, or anything in between, this article will help guide you in the right direction for what to look for in buying used heavy machinery.

So, where can you buy used heavy equipment?

Should I buy from a dealer, contractor, or auction?

Buying from a Dealer or Contractor?

The great part about dealing with contractors and dealers when it comes to used construction equipment sales is there’s always room for negotiation. And 99% of the time, you’ll have known history about the machine too. This means you should have room to buy for less cost than what’s initially presented, and you’ll have the peace of mind to know where it’s been and what it’s been doing over its lifetime as well.

However, when buying from a dealer or contractor, it’s incredibly beneficial if you can go in person and see the machine before buying. While photos and videos often do the trick, if you can visit the branch or site in person, you’ll be able to see how it runs and inspect the machine from all sides to make sure you know what you’re in for. The benefit to purchasing from a dealer specifically is that you’ll have a service team you can go to for support in breakdowns or services as well.

Buying from an Auction?

Especially if you’re new to buying used heavy equipment, might want to rethink that idea. The dangers of buying from an auction primarily stem from the fact that you won’t know the history of the machine. Auctions sell machines as is, no matter what. In other words, the machines come with an invisible sticker that reads, “buyer beware.”

Almost always, you’ll have to be ready to do mechanical work to fix issues and replace parts on machines that come from auction, which already means your dollar amount is on the rise. While you can almost guarantee a low price on auction machines, just remember that it’s a game of high-end gambling, and it’s crucial to do your research on the machines beforehand.

There’s always a certain level of risk in buying heavy equipment. Equipment breaks down, needs new parts, and has to be regularly serviced in order to stay in the best shape. Having a team behind that can support you in those breakdowns, like a dealer with a service side of the house, provides peace of mind and trust that you’re in good hands.

What to know about a used machine before purchasing it?

Different uses cases cause different amounts of damage to heavy equipment. A machine can work the same amount of hours in two different applications and environments and have two very different levels of wear and tear which affects the longevity of its lifetime. Depending on the previous application of the machine, you could be looking at time and money poured into mechanical work, body work, paint jobs, electrical jobs, and more.

What to research about the equipment seller prior to buying?

What questions should you ask the seller before buying a piece of used heavy equipment or construction equipment?

At the end of the day, whether you buy used or new, or rent your heavy equipment, the most important piece is that you find a machine that fits your needs and sets you, your team, and your company up for success. At Ironheads Heavy Equipment, we are here to support you in your heavy equipment journey from search to service and everything in between.

For more information on buying used heavy equipment and to access a checklist for inspecting used machinery, download our Ultimate Guidebook!