If you’re looking for ways to save money during your next construction project, buying used equipment instead of new is an easy way to save a deeper dent in your wallet than is necessary. While it may seem like used machinery would be of lower quality than new machines, that’s not always the case – in fact, used plant equipment can often be just as good as new, and sometimes even better depending on the make and model!

Here are five ways that buying used equipment will save you money in the long run for your project:

1. Used machinery can often be bought at a fraction of the price

Whether you're looking for a used wheel loader, excavator, dump truck, or bulldozer, chances are you'll be able to find it at a much lower price than its brand-new equivalent. This is because used machinery has already depreciated in value, so you're not paying for the initial value that you would with a new machine.

Plus, buying used equipment also means avoiding the hefty dealer markups that come with buying new. By going through second-hand sellers and suppliers, you can often negotiate a better price on used machinery and save on the heavier upfront cost than you would pay for the same model fresh out of the factory.

2. Buying used equipment outright is more affordable than renting new equipment

If you're trying to save money by pursuing alternative spending options for your plant, buying used equipment outright is always more affordable than the long-term rental plans that might come with new equipment. With used plant equipment, you'll own the machine outright and can use it for as long as you need.

Renting new equipment, on the other hand, can be quite expensive – especially if you need the machine for a long period of time. And since most rental agreements require that you return the equipment in good condition, there's always the risk that you'll end up paying for repairs or damage that occurred while the machine was in your care.

With used machinery, however, you won't have to worry about any of that – once you've bought it, it's yours to keep, use, or sell as you please.

3. Used machinery has already been tested and proven to work

When you buy used equipment, you're not taking a gamble on an untested machine. Used plant equipment has already been put to work on previous projects and has proven to be effective, so you know what you're getting before you make the purchase.

Plus, since used machinery is often cheaper than new, it's easier to take a chance on used equipment that may be slightly older or have more wear and tear. If the equipment doesn't work out for your needs, it's not a huge loss since it can easily be resold – but if it does, you've saved yourself a lot of money.

4. Buying used equipment helps support the reuse economy

By buying used machinery, you're not only saving money – you're also helping to support the reuse economy by keeping that machinery out of the scrapyards and giving it a second life back on an actual project site. And since used machinery is often just as good as new, buying used is a great way to get high-quality equipment without contributing to the growing problem of electronic waste.

So not only will buying used save you money, it'll also help reduce environmental impact as well. It's a win-win!

5. You can sell your machinery after you’re finished with it

Once you're done using your used machinery, you can then turn it around and sell it – often for a decent amount, since other construction businesses are always on the lookout for the same equipment.

So whatever it is you’ve bought, chances are you'll be able to find a buyer who's willing to pay a fair price for your used machine. Luckily, at Cater Equipment, we’re always on the lookout for great deals on used equipment nationwide and will always treat you fairly. So remember that if you’re looking to buy or sell your plant equipment, we’ll handle it all for you!