construction equipment

6 Tips on Buying Used Construction Equipment

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Many paving businesses will choose to get new equipment when the old equipment fails, but there are times when it makes more sense to buy used equipment. The search process can be time-consuming, although, believe it or not, it’s not that different from making a new purchase. It would be best to look at 6 essential things when it comes to buying used equipment, including quality, buying experience, and price.

Below are six things you need to keep in mind if you are planning to buy used industrial equipment

Consider Your Exact Construction Equipment Requirements

You need to consider the size, model, capabilities, and attachments of the equipment before you can buy it. There are times when you might find more than one option meeting your criteria, which is why it is a good idea to do thorough research. It is not a good idea to think that some equipment will work for you because it did the previous owner. You should analyze your requirements before you make your final decision.

Inspecting Equipment History

Another thing to put into consideration when buying used equipment is history. Always make sure there are no liens against the equipment and that it is not stolen. Ensure you check the tile of the equipment, keeping in mind that you cannot transfer the ownership until it has been paid in full.

Documentation is also necessary because it shows there are no liens. You can go online and search or contact your bank so that you can find an organization that is going to help determine whether there are liens against the equipment. It is essential to shop with someone you trust to avoid getting stolen goods. Note down the PIN (Product Identification Number) or serial number, then call the police department or any other service to help you.

Check the Construction Equipment Fluids

Some fluids to check out include engine oil, hydraulic fluid, transmission fluid, coolant, etc. When you analyze fluids, you will get an insight into the current condition of the equipment. You are going to know how well the equipment was maintained. 

Low or dirty fluid is a sign that the owner did not keep up with the maintenance routine. Other issues, such as water in the engine, could sign a more significant and critical problem.

Check the Total Operating Hours of the Equipment

Make sure you find out how long the equipment was operated for. This is not an indication of equipment condition, but it is an excellent place to get started. You need to avoid equipment that is edging on its upper limits, and if still interested, then make sure you do a cost/benefit analysis that is going to show whether the savings you are driving by getting an older machine is going to be worth the additional costs needed to maintain and take care of it. Older equipment breaks down more often, making it essential to do this analysis.

Ensure the equipment has been regularly maintained – a machine that has not been adequately maintained. With 1,000 operating hours, it is just as bad as getting one with over 10,000 working hours but nicely maintained.

Check For Signs of Wear and Tear

It is usual for used industrial equipment and industrial parts to have signs of wear and tear, but make sure the damage is not prominent. Look out for rust, hairline cracks, or any damage resulting in the equipment breaking down in the future.

If heavy construction equipment requires a lot of repairs, then it is going to be very expensive. There is also the risk of downtime or having to discard it, which makes your purchase useless.

Check for Accuracy

If the equipment you are interested in involves something crucial like truck scales, it is imperative to check it for accuracy. If there is a compromise on the scale’s precision, it can cause errors that can significantly impact your business reputation. Always make sure the equipment is accurate.

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Picture of Dan Kirksey
Dan Kirksey

Dan is an asphalt paving contractor and has been helping business owners and homeowners with their asphalt and concrete projects throughout Maryland for over a decade.

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