Demand for used construction equipment is on the upswing. Many factors are fueling increased contractor interest in quality pre-owned products, including industry growth and used equipment availability compared to new machines.
Quality pre-owned equipment can help contractors supplement their fleets with machines that deliver performance, durability and value in a short lead time. While these benefits are straightforward, the process of searching for and purchasing exactly the right used equipment online can be complicated and time-consuming.
Connecting with the best used equipment solutions to meet individual business needs does not have to be a cumbersome undertaking. Following are five steps contractors can take to help ensure a simple, successful used equipment acquisition online.
1. Consider factors beyond price
Contractors frequently start online used equipment searches facing a tight deadline to make the purchase. It can be tempting to buy the lowest-cost machine that shows up in an early search.
Understand that used equipment selection based on price alone could lead to costly lost productivity if the machine turns out to be a poor fit for the application. Commit to performing the necessary research to acquire a machine with the best specifications, condition and overall value.
2. Choose reputable manufacturers
Those who conduct their used equipment search online must negotiate a crowded digital landscape of manufacturer, marketplace, auction, dealer and trade publication websites. It can be challenging to identify trustworthy manufacturers and information sources.
Narrow the search to websites from manufacturers with a reputation for high-quality equipment and dedicated customer service. These suppliers are most likely to offer a robust selection and customizable financing, as well as parts and service that help contractors maximize their used equipment investment.
3. Search easy-to-use websites
A robust used equipment site should enable visitors to efficiently search by product category and specific product, and also offer a locator tool. The profile of each pre-owned product should include: a photo, make, model and condition information, technical specifications, the option to request a quote, and links to more information.
It is also important that the website is optimized for mobile and works well on your phone. Many websites housing used equipment are cluttered, difficult to navigate, and lack the mobile optimization. The recommendation here is to zero in on reputable manufacturer websites with user-friendly design and functionality (e.g. Epiroc Marketplace used equipment hub) and start your search with manufacturer’s e-commerce websites.
4. Expect partnership from suppliers
The right used equipment website will help you start or continue a productive partnership with the supplier. After reviewing available inventory, use the site’s request-a-quote feature to express interest in potential solutions and submit questions.
Robust communications functionality on the site will prompt further assistance from an expert member of the manufacturer team, who can continue to provide guidance toward the right machine for the application as well as customized financing choices.
5. Prioritize warranty coverage
Contractors typically purchase used equipment based on three influences: availability, cost and brand. Warranty coverage deserves increased consideration during the process.
Make sure manufacturer partners stand behind their used products with limited warranty coverage. A warranty gives contractors confidence that used machines, such as hydraulic attachments rebuilt to factory specifications, are ready to work, and rebuilt to last.
The used construction equipment market is expected to remain strong in the months ahead. As manufacturers introduce new equipment that offers more innovation and reliability, even more quality products will enter the used equipment supply.
By following these five steps to a smooth and successful used equipment purchase online, contractors can extend their fleet with quality machines that deliver high productivity, excellent value and peace of mind — leading to a more profitable business.
About the author
Rocky Stacy is the Aftermarket Manager for the hydraulic attachment division of Epiroc USA. A native of northeast Ohio, he has nearly 15 years of experience in the construction and mining industry. Rocky and his team strive to provide HAT customers with creative and effective solutions to all their used equipment, spare parts, technical support and service needs.