Important tips for Buying Used Machinery

Crack Detection 

Before you buy any type of used machinery, you must perform a thorough examination to ensure there are no cracks at any critical locations. Just like the color-contrast dye-penetrant method, this is not a very difficult thing to do. This simple test will also greatly reduce the effects of you buying a damaged machine. If you want to be extra thorough in your inspection, this test can be performed ultrasonically. 

Age is not a Deciding Factor 

Many people assume that the age of the machine is the most important indicator of the remaining service life, but this is not the case. Compare a machine made in 1980, that has been running at 60% capacity for its time in operations, to a second machine made in 1990, that has been running at 100% capacity. Which machine do you think is going to have more service life left? This brings us to the next very important point.  

The Machine History 

The history of the machine is going to be far more important than the year it was manufactured. History can tell a lot about the machine’s life, what it has experienced and how much life it has left. You should do as much as you can to learn about the life of your machine and who owned it before you did. You might even want to contact them directly. The previous owner may have some details about the maintenance, services, repairs, and replacements the machine has received over the years.  

As a rule of thumb, the best indicator of the machine’s conditions is the amount of maintenance it has received. The greatest damage to a machine will come from small issues that are not addressed immediately. When small irregularities are not addressed, they cause strain on the critical components of the machine. This is a point to discuss with the previous owner of your machine. 

Consider Your Options 

Be sure to keep your mind and your options open at surplus network. Don’t become too fixated on any specific product or machine. Always take time to consider how your operations and process are being balanced. Alternatives are always available. For example, you may be looking for a forging hammer, but can’t find any available. In some situations, a suitable alternative might be a modern screw press. Take the time to consider how your process can be improved and adjusted in different ways.  

Furthermore, if you buy machines brand new, you can be very specific with the features you want. When you are shopping for used machines, you will have to be a little more flexible.  

Seller/Machine Dealer 

Many people are selling used machines today and everyone wants to get the most they can for their products. But you will find that some dealers are known for their top-quality items, competitive prices, and experience with trading used machines. It is a good idea to perform an investigation into the background of any used machine dealers you are hoping to favor. If you have gotten any solid recommendations from trusted friends and colleagues, this is even better.  

Inspection 

It will be equally important to inspect the piece of machinery inside and out to make sure that it is in good condition. This may be difficult if you are buying from an overseas supplier, but the trip may be worth the cost if you are purchasing an especially valuable piece of machinery. Minor damage may not be a deal breaker, but it can be good negotiating points and indications of other damages.  

Make sure the machine is complete with an exhaustive inventory of all parts. Finally, consider where the machine is being stored. If it is in a leaky barn collecting dust, there is a good chance that something important has deteriorated or is simply not there. Make sure you find out what that missing or damaged piece is before making a purchase. The costs to make these repairs and replacements may also be very costly and should be considered in the negotiations.  

The Whole Package 

After you have calculated the price of the machine itself, you will want to factor in all the associated costs of the investment. For example, depending on where the machine is located, the costs of shipping could be very high. Ask the seller about the loading, disassembly, and shipping costs. Find out which of these costs, if any, will be handled by the seller. It may be a cheaper option if these services are covered by the seller.  

This will save you a considerable amount of hassle in coordinating all these tasks from your location. It also places you in a better position to negotiate the final asking price of the machine. The seller will be much happier to lower their price if they will be in control of all aspects of the delivery process.  

Negotiations 

This sounds very obvious, but it is better safe than sorry. Many smaller questions should be asked here to ensure you will be getting exactly what you expect. Be sure to ask about the spare parts available for this machine, the terms of delivery, the presence of tool holders, delivery times, etc. Make sure that all these details have been confirmed in writing before the purchase.  

Budget 

If the asking price for the item in question is simply too high, you should let the seller know and make them an offer you are willing to pay. This will help the seller decide if they can match your offer or at least make a counteroffer. Being honest and direct in transactions always leads to the best prices.