Let’s face it. Times are tough. In such economic conditions, every savvy construction business manager is looking for a good deal when it comes to buying construction equipment. This is especially true if you consider the fact that equipment costs are one of the biggest expenses that a construction company faces. Every purchase must make sense with regard to the company’s bottom line.
However, this doesn’t mean you have to break the bank to get high-quality construction equipment. Online auctions are increasingly becoming the best place to get a good deal for equipment. Whether you decide to buy used or new machines, here are some tips that you need to consider:
Do Some Research
If you want to buy a specific piece of machinery, say, an excavator, you need to look at different manufacturers, brands, and models. This will help you determine which option is of better value. There are many online auctions that give you an opportunity to check out a wide range of information about construction equipment. Scan as many auction websites as you can and compare the bid prices, the condition of the equipment, specifications, and etc. This kind of information always helps buyers to make smart decisions. At the end of the day, your ultimate goal should be to buy quality equipment at or below a specific bid price.
Go for Well-Known Brands
One of the best ways to ensure that a piece of equipment is of great quality is to go for a reputable brand name. It may be much cheaper to go for a lesser-known brand name, but this should only be an option if the dealer has a good reputation in the local community. The good thing about buying a trusted name is that you are guaranteed continuous maintenance and service. A well-known brand also makes it easier to find spare parts.
Inspect the Equipment
Inspecting construction equipment is a crucial part of the pre-bid process. To ensure a proper inspection is done, send an experienced mechanic or employee that you trust to check out the machine and test it. Some of the things to look out for include tire quality, cleanliness, leaking fluids, speed and movement, hydraulics, and etc. If the seller does not allow you to inspect the equipment before purchase, then don’t buy the unit.
Check for Existing Warranties
Most heavy construction equipment comes with a 5-year warranty or a guarantee that lasts several hundred working hours. Even if the machine is used, the warranty can still be transferred to the new owner. This means you should keep an eye out on construction equipment that is only a few years old. An original factory warranty will ensure that your equipment will get the necessary service and maintenance it needs for a couple of years. Talk to the dealer and ask them about any extended warranties or service contract. However, though this may add to the cost of the equipment.
Thanks to online listings and auction sites, it is now easier than ever to buy construction equipment. However, always remember to perform your research well and choose a well-known brand whenever possible. Don’t forget to inspect the equipment thoroughly before buying and keep an eye out for machines that are still under warranty.