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As with most things, when purchasing items, cost is a major consideration and farmers like any other businessmen are keen to cut down on costs wherever possible. These days second hand plant is as popular if not more popular than new, with the refurbishment and sale of equipment a huge business. One of the largest benefits of buying used farming equipment is the cost savings.

On and off line there are essentially 2 usual ways through which used farm equipment can be purchased and money saved - through auctions or through equipment dealers.

Bargains can often be found at farm auctions such as those organised offline by companies such as grichards.co.uk or through the Internet by sites like ebay.com.

Do bear in mind tough the nature of auctions and that it's usually a case of Caveat emptor: 'buyer beware'. Internet">All the glistens isn't necessarily gold so buyers should be sure to do their homework, know what they are dealing with and if in doubt seek third party advice and assistance. It's worth noting that second-hand farm machinery must be sold with a certificate of safety and an instruction book in the language of the buyer

There are numerous on and offline equipment dealers selling used farm equipment and machinery while aggregators of classified ads for used farming equipment list many thousands of pieces of equipment submitted for sale from farmers and dealers all over the world. Again it's possible to pick up some great deals if you take the time and trouble to research the market place properly and enjoy a little luck. Often equipment is reconditioned to a very high standard or equipment is sold as nearly new.

Buying through a dealer is generally higher priced but the risks can also be minimized. A dealer might be able to offer discounts, guarantees and forms of financing which if you don't have the cash to put on the table might be a worthwhile way of picking up the kit. There are other tax and cash flow considerations that might want to be entered into the finance or leasing equation for new or used equipment.

When considering used farm equipment it's wise to consider the brand, model and age with regards to parts availability. The price of parts (and downtime if the parts aren't readily available) can be prohibitive enough but in some cases might make the investment in a piece of equipment cost ineffective.

Don't necessarily be afraid of older kit as although it probably won't have some of the "frills" that you might would find more common on "newer" equipment it may have more commonly available and better value spare parts.

In addition to cost savings there are other advantages to buying used farming equipment. Namely that money can go further and a larger fleet be employed or that the cash saved by purchasing used kit can be put to other more cost effective uses.

For interviews, quotes, images or comments contact:
Robert Tate
Regional Sales Manager - UK
Mob:+ 44 (0) 7970 230055
E mail: robert.tate@mascus.com