Pros and Cons of Buying Used Construction Machinery

If you’re looking to expand your construction machinery fleet, either to add more of the same types of equipment that you currently have or to expand on machinery that has different uses, looking into used construction equipment is well worth doing. 

The final decision will depend on a number of factors, including the size of the job you need new equipment for, the time frame you will require it for, the specific functions it needs to fulfil, and of course the cost. 

When buying used excavators and used construction machinery, it’s worth spending some time looking at the pros and cons to make an informed decision on which is the best route to go down.

Pros of Buying Used Construction Machinery

There are many benefits to buying used construction equipment rather than opting for a brand new one. Here are some of them:

Cost

Ultimately the pros for buying used excavators instead of brand new ones all contribute to the main important factor which is cost. This isn’t a simple calculation, as costs need to be considered for a whole range of things, not just the initial purchase fee, but maintenance, parts, cost per use, wait time and so on. 

All of these things can affect the cost and therefore the value of new or used equipment for your business. Deciding whether to buy outright, or rent construction machinery is one decision, and then whether you go for new or used is the next step. 

The price of purchasing a used excavator is cheaper than buying a new excavator, and you can buy used excavators in almost the same condition as a brand-new one. The reduction in the cost of buying a used excavator will also allow you to buy a higher end excavator whilst staying within your budget, essentially more bang for your buck.

Replacement Parts

Slightly older, used machinery that is commonplace in the market is much easier to purchase replacement parts for.

Lead Times

Although purchasing a used excavator can be an intense job, they are more readily available and can be added to your fleet much quicker than brand new machinery. There will be fewer delays that could drastically extend the lead time of your purchase.

Cons of Buying Used Construction Machinery

Despite these positives, buying used construction machinery does have some disadvantages too:

Longevity

Naturally, an older piece of equipment is likely to have a shorter lifespan than a brand new one, but this is why it is important to scope out the full picture of why you are investing in new machinery and what it will be used for. A brand new piece of machinery is likely to last much longer.

Intensive Buying Process

The research and administration time can be very time consuming and involve a lot of man hours to scope out the market and research the best available option in a market that frequently changes. The availability of new equipment is a much smaller pool, so essentially you just choose the one you need and hit purchase.

Warranty & Care

Buying brand new equipment will likely bring with it a warranty time period, and care and maintenance packages that ensure the smooth operation of your new equipment. You’re unlikely to get this level of support for used equipment if the warranty has expired.

These are the pros and cons of buying used construction machinery, and they all come down to the individual circumstances you are facing and the need you have for it.

Hitachi Used Machinery

Hitachi has a large range of high quality, used construction machinery for sale at affordable prices. Browse the Hitachi used machinery collection online.