A Guide to Buying Used Heavy Machinery

Adding a heavy-duty vehicle to your fleet is an exciting endeavor, and it requires careful planning, inspection and discussion for the best results. Used equipment can add just as much power and productivity to your jobsite as a brand-new model if you take the necessary vetting steps in our guide to used heavy machinery purchasing. Read on to learn essential tips for buying used heavy equipment and how to find a seller you can trust.

Questions to Ask When Buying Used Heavy Machinery

One of the best practices for buying used equipment is to prepare the right questions for your seller. You’ll get a clearer idea of your potential purchase’s suitability and also learn about the seller’s expertise. Before buying used heavy machinery, raise the following questions with your seller:

1. What Are the Equipment’s Capabilities?

First and foremost, you want to know if the vehicle you’re considering can meet your needs. Ask the seller about the used vehicle’s load capacity, lifting height, power requirements and compliance with industry safety standards in its current condition. Discuss the intended use case with the seller and assess whether that aligns with your plans for the equipment.

2. How Much Has the Equipment Been Used?

Find out as much as you can about the machinery’s history. While these records might not always be available, it’s still worth asking how many hours it’s been operational, how many years old it is, whether it’s been modified and how many services and repairs it’s undergone. A well-maintained vehicle with fewer hours on the clock is ideal.

3. Has the Seller Inspected the Heavy Machinery?

All good sellers have a qualified technician thoroughly inspect their previously used equipment before reselling it. This allows them to conduct the necessary services and repairs and consider wear and tear when setting a fair price. Some sellers provide post-inspection condition certifications upon request or allow independent inspections before you finalize your purchase.

Ways to Gauge Quality When Purchasing Used Equipment

One of the most pivotal tips for buying used heavy equipment is to brush up on your knowledge before discussing specific options. If you know what to look for and how to spot an excellent deal, you’ll walk away with better quality machinery at more reasonable prices. Before purchasing used equipment, be sure to:

1. Research the Machinery Beforehand

Before buying used heavy machinery, you should learn how off-the-shelf models perform. This way, you’ll have something to compare your used model to during inspection and testing and also figure out if it’s the right model for your needs. Pivotal information you should find out about includes:

• Specifications: Understand the machinery’s technical specifications, including how much power it needs, how much it can carry and how large it is.
• Brand reputation: Read reviews and ratings from previous users to ensure your chosen brand is known for reliability and durability.
• Market value: Research the typical market price for similar used vehicles online to gauge whether the seller’s asking price is reasonable.
• Common issues: Investigate any frequently reported problems with the model you’re considering through forums and industry publications.

2. Do a Visual Inspection

To better understand the overall condition of the heavy machinery you plan on buying, you will need to look it over thoroughly. The issue could be as simple as a part that needs replacing, or it could be a foundational issue that puts you off the sale. Pay special attention to:

• Condition: Look for signs of wear and tear, such as rust, dents, cracks and other structural components, to learn about previous owners’ maintenance habits.
• Tires and tracks: Inspect the vehicle’s tires for uneven wear, cracks or low tread depth. Also, ensure all the track links are present and undamaged with the correct tension.
• Leaks: Check for fluid leaks in hydraulic systems, engines or other parts after your purchase to avoid unexpected mechanical repair costs.
• Accessories: Examine attachments such as buckets and forks for wear and tear, and make sure they’re compatible with how you intend to use them.
• Safety: Ensure that all safety features, such as lights, alarms, guards and emergency shut-off switches, are in good working condition.

3. Take the Vehicle for a Test Drive

Taking your potential new equipment for a test drive is crucial for evaluating its performance and assessing its current condition. This way, you can get a general feel for the vehicle and decide whether it suits your needs and is comfortable to operate. As a potential buyer, you should focus on:

• Engine performance: Listen for strange noises like sputtering when you start and drive it, and check if the engine stalls.
• Steering and control: Assess how sensitive and reactive the steering and controls are as you drive and operate the machinery.
• Brakes: Test the brakes thoroughly to ensure they engage promptly without grinding or making other unusual sounds.
• Stability: Pay attention to how the vehicle maintains balance and avoids tipping over while turning or lifting loads.
• Hydraulics: Test all hydraulic functions, such as lifting and tilting, to ensure they work smoothly and responsively.

What You Should Look for in a Reliable Seller

A key component in learning how to buy used equipment is spotting a good seller. For a smooth buying experience, a high-quality end product, cost-effective prices and the chance to build a lasting working relationship with an excellent service provider, you should ask:

1. Does the Seller Have a Good Reputation?

A good track record usually means the seller is credible and trustworthy. Read previous clients’ testimonials and reviews on the seller’s website and Google to better understand their perceived service and product quality. Also, investigate how many years of experience the seller has and which certifications and accreditations they’ve earned.

2. What Products and Services Does the Seller Offer?

Look for a seller that offers machinery from high-quality brands, provides inspections, maintenance and repairs and stocks equipment for various industries and applications. Versatile sellers often have more substantial expertise in heavy machinery, and their technicians have a broader knowledge base. It’s also a bonus if the seller offers new products with warranties and equipment for rent, as you can rely on them for future construction projects.

If you find an expert seller you feel fits all the criteria for a great match but doesn’t currently stock your preferred vehicle, there’s still hope. Some sellers have broad networks of used machinery vendors, so even if they don’t have exactly what you’re looking for, they may be able to source it for you. 

3. Which Replacement Parts Does the Seller Offer?

Ask the seller if they stock replacement parts for your chosen machine and, if so, what kind. Different part types are best suited for different situations, so ideally, your seller should offer the choice between original equipment manufacturer (OEM), aftermarket, remanufactured and hard-to-find parts. Also, inquire about any service plans the sellers offer that may save you money on maintenance and repairs.

Trust Groff Tractor & Equipment for Excellent Used Heavy Machinery

At Groff Tractor & Equipment, we take the utmost pride in the used equipment we sell and rent. Our extensive inspection process, transparent customer service and dedication to the finest brands on the market make Groff Tractor & Equipment the ideal partner in construction, paving, forestry and material processing. We stock various fully serviced used vehicles and provide warranty options on newer models alongside parts of all types.

Since 1958, we’ve been assisting clients in locations throughout Pennsylvania, including New Stanton, Lewisberry and Sellersville, and we would love to help you find exactly what you’re looking for. To get started, contact us online today.