Buying materials handling equipment can be tricky, but choosing the right machine and supplier becomes even more challenging when ‘big trucks’ are involved.
Many of the heavy and specialised machines available are off continent, life-expired or have dubious histories. As a consequence, what looks to be a good, low-cost handling solution can all too easily turn into a bad investment due to high ongoing costs and poor reliability.
Here are our top tips for buying used heavy lifting equipment with confidence:
• Quality counts
As with most things in life, you get what you pay for. If you want reliability and high productivity levels, choose modern, quiet, low emissions, low hours machines that are LOLER-certified and have been well-maintained. Reduce the risk by purchasing equipment that comes with a complete, substantiated history. Prior to each machine going into stock, experienced Cooper technicians carry out a 200-point quality check to ensure the machine and its history are a true match.
• Tap into marketplace knowledge
The best deals are available from suppliers that really know this marketplace. A reputable provider will be able to offer a choice of quality machines at an affordable price to suit a wide range of applications. And, to help you achieve a cost-effective handling solution, they will be prepared to take the time to find out about your business and your specific heavy lifting requirements.
• The right finance package
A used machine represents a significant capital investment. Don’t assume that outright purchase is the only route to acquiring the reach stacker or container handler you want. Check out the best way of financing your equipment – ask your supplier about hire purchase and transferring the asset into rental at a future date.
• A worthwhile warranty
For added peace of mind, always buy a used machine that comes with a warranty. However, not all warranties are the same, so it’s important to check exactly what it covers. Also look into the possibilities of extending the warranty and ask the supplier about tying it in with a maintenance programme that is purpose-built around your specific needs.
• Customised service and maintenance support
Buying the equipment is only part of the solution. For maximum productivity the machine must be maintained properly. You also want to be sure that, if it should break down, fully qualified service engineers will be on hand quickly to carry out repairs. Whether you need total fleet management to reduce your overall operating expenses or scheduled maintenance support to minimise equipment downtime, a reputable supplier will offer flexible service packages with a comprehensive range of options.
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