Advantages And Disadvantages Of Used Process Machinery

It doesn’t matter what type of factory you run, your process machinery is the heart of your operation. But purchasing and setting up new machines can cost a bit, so manufacturers purchase used equipment at low prices. However, many manufacturers feel reluctant about buying used machines because they may not last as long as new ones. If you are considering installing used equipment, then you need to consider its pros and cons first.

Pros Of Used Process Machinery

Short Lead Time

A new model can take a long time to arrive and set up because the supplier may not have spare parts, the shipment may arrive late from the manufacturer or there may be a lack of deploying staff. A used machine is usually readily available in the storage and ready to ship. This reduces the lead time considerably and allows you to begin/resume operation sooner than later.

Low Price

The greatest benefit and the main reason why manufacturers buy second-hand process machinery is that it’s more affordable than their out-of-factory counterparts. Depending on how old the model is and its demand, a used machine’s price can be as low as thirty percent of its original price. This is especially beneficial for small operations seeking to expand within their budget and allows medium-sized operations to buy more equipment for the same reason.

Great Selection

Between old models that can perform the basics to last year’s models that have most of the features that the latest models offer at a fraction of the cost, you have many options that you can choose from.

No Value Depreciation

The resale value of an out-of-factory model can fall as far as sixty percent of its original price after a year. But after a year, the model’s price stabilizes with little to no depreciation is its resale value for at least five years. Meaning, if you buy a Quadro Comil that has been used for a year, you can sell it for nearly the same price the next year.

Low Insurance Premiums

You can make savings on your insurance policy by installing second-hand machines due to their lower price tags. An insurance company will charge a high amount for a new machine and will continue to charge the same amount despite the depreciation in its value. So, you could be overspending on something that’s not worth it. In contrast, you get an affordable premium for used machinery and don’t have to worry about overpaying since its value doesn’t depreciate much.

Eco-Friendly

By purchasing a used Quadro Comil, you perform your corporate social responsibility and contribute to environmental efforts taking place all over the world. You prevent the old machine from ending up in the landfill, reduce the demand for new machines and reduce the number of resources spent on making them.

Cons Of Used Process Machinery

Uncertain Condition

There’s a lot of uncertainty about a second-hand machine’s condition. You can check the machine’s records to know its maintenance and ownership history but many unscrupulous dealers forge such records. You should do a test run before purchasing it.

Frequent Repairs/Replacements

Machines have a certain lifespan after which they either break down completely or require frequent repairs to operate. Pre-owned pharma equipment doesn't last as long as new ones because they are old, so you’ll need to repair and replace it more frequently.

High Maintenance Cost

Because you need to repair/replace pre-owned machinery frequently, their maintenance cost can add up and cost a chunk of your budget. This could be concerning because maintenance accounts for a huge chunk of any operation’s budget.

Short Warranty If Any

Many machines are sold as-is and don’t come with any warranty. Some suppliers and manufacturers check, repair and certify old machines and offer an extended warranty on them, which is limited to a few months at best in most cases. You may be able to extend the warranty further at extra costs.