Things to consider when purchasing used equipment

October 2021

With the increasing shortage of new vehicles and equipment, the second hand market for many items has inflated by 20-30% over the past year. This boom is being compounded by high commodity prices and long wait times for new equipment deliveries.

With this in mind, buyers should prepare for their second hand purchases with a thorough checklist, effective due diligence process and the best equipment financing options. We discuss these three important steps below.

1. Your second hand asset checklist

Finding the right used machinery with satisfactory working conditions can be a difficult task – particularly if the buyer isn’t familiar with conducting inspections.

The process can be simplified by having a comprehensive checklist at the ready before starting your second hand equipment search. Here are some important points you should consider including in your checklist:

  • Start the equipment inspection with a vendor-supplied copy of the condition report, interstate registration transfer and insurance.
  • Ask how the machine was used, where and in what type of working environment.
  • Conduct a check of the equipment including the tyres, lower body, buckets and blades.
  • Identify any components that appear worn out, or close to being worn out.
  • Conduct an interior cabin check of the controls, steering and backup systems. Also check if the seat adjustments work.
  • Check the hours on the meter for an accurate gauge of how much usage the equipment has had.
  • Turn the machine on and listen for warning signs such as coughing, squeaking or any other unusual noises.
  • Pull the machinery forward a few metres to check it tracks straight.
  • Check the hydraulic system and engine for signs of fluid leaks, breaks, corrosion, scratches or dents. Also check for loose belts and dirty filters.
  • Get an oil sample and check for metal contamination through an oil analysis.

These tips can be used to conduct a basic inspection on any used equipment you buy, however it is best to have a qualified technician perform the inspection on your behalf if possible.

2. Due diligence is key

The next thing to consider is your due diligence process, which extends beyond the inspection. In the right market, purchasing used equipment can offer great value, but it’s important to remember that the risk of problems with buying second hand equipment is significantly higher than buying new.

Here are a few key questions to be addressed through the due diligence process:

  • How long is the equipment likely to last? It’s important to match the product lifespan with your requirements.
  • Is the equipment an exact match for your needs? Second hand equipment buying typically involves less choice than buying new, so ensuring it’s a genuine match is worthwhile.
  • Is the seller reputable? Dealing with sellers with solid reputations is likely to increase your chances of buying quality second hand products.
  • Are there any additional removal and shipping charges? This is worth checking, particularly for heavy machinery.

When conducting private sales, a little diligence can go a long way. There will always be some risk involved with purchasing second hand, and these risks grow with the list of former owners. However, being aware of these risks is paramount to effective planning and mitigation.

3. The benefits of equipment financing

And finally, being prepared with a finance solution is also an important step. Many of us associate private sales as a lump sum which must be paid at time of purchase, however this doesn’t have to be the case.

Business owners have a number of equipment finance options available which allow them to pay off second hand assets over time, as opposed to full payment at the time of purchase:

  1. Finance lease – involves the lender purchasing an asset and leasing it back to you. At the end of the lease period, you’ll have the option to purchase the asset. The payments can also be tax deductible.
  2. Commercial hire-purchase – a financing option wherein you pay the total amount of the asset in instalments over a specified period. Ownership is transferred to you after the final instalment of the asset has been made. While only the interest portion of the payments is tax deductible, your business can claim depreciation deductions.
  3. Specific security agreement (formerly a chattel mortgage) – is similar to a home loan, wherein the equipment being financed is owned by you/your business, but is mortgaged to the lender by a registrable charge over the equipment. This is a secured loan where the equipment acts as security for the lender.

These are just some of the finance options available, but finding a suitable finance option doesn’t have to be complicated. A broker can help simplify the process and find you the best finance option and lender, depending on the equipment you are buying and what it’s being used for.

Final thoughts

Buying pre-owned equipment in today’s market can be a stressful and difficult process. Thankfully your broker can help you with your checklist, due diligence process and finding the best finance option. Speak to them before you start your second hand equipment search.

The information in this post is provided for general information only and does not take into account your personal situation. You should consider whether the information is appropriate to your needs, and where appropriate, seek professional advice from financial, legal and taxation advisors. Although every effort has been made to verify the accuracy of the information as at the date of publication, Geared Finance, its officers, employees and agents disclaim all liability (except for any liability which by law cannot be excluded), for any error, inaccuracy, or omission from the information for any reason, including due to the passage of time, or any loss or damage suffered by any person directly or indirectly through relying on this information.