Operations in many industrial settings depend on the use of heavy equipment. For work at heights, mobile elevated work platforms (MEWPs) or aerial lifts are typically rented. Large companies, or those with frequent use, may decide to purchase their own equipment. Nevertheless, factors such as cash flow, maintenance capacity, storage, and other considerations can influence the choice. When selecting this type of equipment, decision-makers sometimes struggle to choose between new and used units. While a new aerial work platform may seem more sensible due to enhanced technologies, additional features, and reduced maintenance demands, this does not preclude considering used equipment. A well-maintained used aerial work platform can be a viable option for several reasons including cost-effectiveness.
Reasons to opt for used aerial lifts
If you are looking for immediate cost-saving opportunities, considering used equipment can be rewarding. New units come at a higher price, often on the promise of offering better features or technology. But after all, they are mechanical devices, and you cannot be certain how long they will meet your needs, unless they are operated and maintained well. Used units, on the other hand, have already demonstrated their performance, making them often easier to trust. Plus, you don’t have to pay a high upfront cost, allowing you to invest the saved amount in other areas of operations, such as operator training or service expansion.
With machinery, another critical factor is depreciation. New models tend to lose value quickly during the first few years. Used equipment has already undergone this initial decline, so its depreciation will be slower. As a result, you can even decide to sell it later, and other buyers may show interest based on your experience with its performance. For a more confident decision, you may also want to assess other aspects of your business before purchasing.
Financial considerations when choosing a used aerial lift
How do you decide when a new, shinier unit looks more tempting than a tried-and-tested used aerial lift? As mentioned earlier, new machinery is always expensive to buy, and you may have to pay thousands of dollars upfront. Of course, its maintenance cost may be lower initially. But affordability cannot be overlooked. If there is a budget constraint, used units can offer relief, enabling you to continue operations without interruption. They will not strain your cash flow. You can still save a significant amount, which can help cover your material bills, payroll, and other costs.
Things to consider
Although a newer model may seem more appealing, you must do due diligence before finalizing a deal. You should be confident that the choice is a good one. For this, you can ask the vendor to provide detailed inspection documentation for the chosen model. It should list all information about the condition of its engine, electronic system, safety features, and hydraulics. You should also request the maintenance history to determine whether the equipment has been properly maintained and if it could result in unreasonable repair costs. Check the warranty details to understand which components are covered and for how long. The machine should be checked by a qualified operator. You can also request a performance demo from the vendor, if possible. Additionally, you should inquire about future customer service and support. Typically, these types of purchases should be made only from a reputable source.
