Over the past few years, the market for used construction equipment has seen exponential growth in South Africa, due to the durable nature of construction machinery, as well as the ever-increasing budgetary constraints that construction companies face. Since most construction machinery is built to last a lifetime, as well as withstand tough working conditions, it makes looking for used construction equipment for sale in South Africa a far more viable option, especially when upgrading equipment. (Information source: https://www.ctcplant.com/)
Another advantage of opting for used construction equipment is the fact that the cost is vastly different to that of new equipment, and the delivery times are far shorter. In most cases, if you had to look for used construction equipment for sale in South Africa, it would be available immediately. Whereas if you were to purchase it brand new, there may be a lead time of over two years.
While buying used construction equipment has its many advantages, you need to ensure that the equipment you purchase is still in good condition. Therefore, when looking for used construction equipment for sale, keep the following considerations top of mind:
1. Look for cracks in critical locations
Before you purchase used equipment, you should always inspect the machinery and ensure that there are no cracks in critical locations. This simple test will vastly reduce the risk of the machine no longer being suitable for use.
2. Age should not be a deciding factor
Most times when people are looking for used construction equipment for sale, they will ask how old the machine is, or when it was manufactured. This should not be a deciding factor. An ‘older’ machine may have only run at 60% of its actual capacity, whereas a newer machine ran at 100%. Which one seems like the smarter purchase?
3. Ask about the history of the machine
The history involves more than just when the equipment was manufactured. When searching for used construction equipment, ask about the previous owners, and whether there were any noticeable defects.
4. Consider your options
You need to keep your mind open when searching for used construction equipment for sale. Do not get your heart set on one particular machine. Look at the alternatives and see if something better is available.
5. Consider the reputation of the seller or dealer
Before purchasing the used construction equipment, do a background check on both the physical machine, as well as the seller or dealer. Are they a reputable dealer? A good track record is of utmost importance, as you need to be able to trust that the dealer will live up to their promise.
6. Inspect the equipment yourself
The best way to ensure that the used construction equipment for sale in South Africa is still of a high standard is by inspecting it yourself. Take a close look at the crucial parts of the machinery to ensure there are no defects. Minor damages are not reasons to not buy the machinery. However, they can be negotiating points.
