Investing in your business is vital and even more so when working with plant machinery. Not only do you need to stay on top of the current technology, but it’s also important to buy wisely to ensure a good return on investment. Buying second-hand plant machinery is one of the most productive solutions to this. It gives you the option to expand your fleet, especially if you’re just starting. You’ll also have more scope to purchase higher-brand products at a more affordable price, allowing you to complete jobs to a higher standard. And, you won’t be put on the end of extensive waiting lists for the newest models.

However, with any second-hand purchase, you need to do your research. Ensuring you understand the right way to buy used plant machinery will benefit you in a multitude of ways. You’ll be better informed to understand how the investment you’re making it likely to pay off. And you can rest easy knowing you’re making a purchase decision that is wise for your business. As experts in the world of second-hand plant machinery, the team at Jay Bee Plant Sales have banded together to bring you our top tips for getting the most out of your purchase.

Choose A Reputable Dealer

One of the very first things to consider when buying second hand is the dealer. You’re putting a lot of trust in the accuracy of the information they pass on and the condition of the machine itself. Working alongside a reputable dealer that has been vetted and suggested by others in your trade is vital. Speak to a member of the team and ask questions. You want to understand as much about the machine as possible, from how long it’s been on the lot through to what repair work it’s needed in the past. Additionally, you’ll want to make sure the dealer puts your needs first.

They should be willing to meet with and discuss any queries you may have. You should have the trust of online reviews and past customers to fall back on – both of which a reputable dealer will be happy to supply. And, it’s worth checking whether they have a refund or returns policy in place that supports your role as a customer.

Review the Machine’s History

As we mentioned above, it’s important to understand the history of your chosen used plant machine. The dealer should be able to provide detailed paperwork that explains where it was manufactured, what the chain of sale has been before you and servicing records. Take note of any major repair work that has been carried out as this could potentially be flagged as an issue later on down the line.

It’s important to check that the machine has been properly maintained and serviced over the years. This eliminates the risk of costly repair work in the future and gives you a solid base to work from too.

Check Operating Hours

When buying second hand, you’ll need to take into account how many operating hours a machine has. Keep in mind that most plant machinery is used extensively – after all, they are a significant investment for businesses when brought new. And, they’re expected to carry their burden of work to keep projects ticking forward. However, you need to look at how long you need the machine to work for you.

Natural wear-and-tear will play a role in the deterioration of certain components. While proper maintenance and repairs will keep a machine working for as long as possible, understanding it’s operating hours will give you a better idea of the potential repair work that may be needed later on down the line. Many machines, such as excavators, can be expected to work for upwards of 10,000 hours before needing any major repair work.

Used plant machinery is a popular choice for businesses of all kinds. And here at Jay Bee Plant Sales, we are proud to have a team of experts on hand to help you with your purchase. Get in contact today for more information on a range of second-hand machines for sale.