Full disclosure, I sell used machine tools for a living, so I know I’m biased when discussing the reasons you should buy a used machine. Despite that, in selling machines for over 10 years, I’ve seen first-hand the benefits that buying used offers to our customers.
This is in no way an argument against buying a new machine. If you can afford it, I will always encourage a customer to buy a new machine. You get a warranty, you get the latest technology & you’re starting fresh with zero hours on the spindle. This is especially true for a customer who is considering buying their first CNC machine. In addition to the reasons I just listed, a first-time buyer will also benefit greatly from the training that often comes with a new purchase.
However, if your next purchase is not your first CNC machine, I’d like to give you 3 reasons why you should consider buying a used machine.
1. COST SAVINGS
- Take the money you’re saving vs a new machine & invest it into other areas of your business or buy two or three machines for the price of one. More spindles turning = more revenue generated.
2. IMMEDIATE AVAILABILITY
- Most used machines on the market will be available for immediate delivery – whereas new machines, direct from the OEM can have lead times anywhere from one month to one year (depending on the size & scarcity of the machine).
- If you land a large contract that you’ve been bidding, which requires a machine you do not currently have on your floor, ramping up production quickly, to fulfill the contract, may not be an option if you’re forced to wait 2-3 months for a new machine. This is where buying a used machine presents a great solution. We’ll either have the machine you need in inventory, or we’ll go out and find it for you. Just tell us what you’re looking for.
3. REPLICATION
- Do you have a machine or machines in your shop that have been rock solid, money-makers for years? If so, buying a used machine allows you to bring in the exact same model as the reliable machine that you’ve been running for years.
- Also, by replicating an existing machine on your floor, you’ll be able to utilize the spare parts you’ve stocked and interchange tooling between the machines.
- Last but not least, your operators will thank you. They’ve already learned the ins and out of a particular control like FANUC, HAAS, OKUMA or MAZAK & this will allow them to move seamlessly to the next used machine you add.
As with buying anything, there’s always risk. However, our process is aimed at helping to eliminate as much of that risk as possible. Also, by buying a used machine through a used machinery dealer, you can avoid some of the stress that comes with negotiating and arranging logistics. We’re here to help with all of that.
We look forward to partnering with you on your next machinery purchase.