Used analytical lab equipment can cost thousands depending on what type of equipment you need. New electron microscopes can cost more than $100,000 for models with all the bells and whistles. Buying used or refurbished can save you up to seventy percent and get you analyzers for every application from hematology to nuclear magnetic resonance from leading manufacturers like Hewlett-Packard, Hitachi and Thermo Finnigan. Many of the companies who lease used equipment offer upgrades or the option to buy at the end of a lease, giving you the opportunity to realize a quicker return on investment from capital expenditures.

Find the best price on your used analytical lab equipment by considering the following options:

1. Companies that specialize in leasing used analytical lab equipment

2. Sites that connect buyers and sellers

3. Reputable companies that sell used laboratory analytical supplies from their own stock

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Get affordable leases on used lab instruments and save big

One of the smartest ways to purchase both new and used lab instruments is to lease. Though it is often not truly a purchase, a lease can let you spend money you would otherwise be devoting to fancy equipment in one lump sum to other areas of your business. Almost all leasing companies can tailor payment plans depending on customer needs.

I recommend: International Equipment Trading has offered on-site delivery and installation since 1979. McKinley Scientific lists its stock of mass spectrometers, chromatography and robotic equipment, and DNA equipment, as well as a list of equipment the company wants to buy.

Find the cheapest prices on used laboratory instruments and buy from an individual seller

Used laboratory instruments can also be found for sale through individuals. You may find better prices but they are typically offered without warranty or refurbishing. You'll also likely be left on your own when it comes to installation and training. You can find individual sellers throughout the U.S. and abroad through websites that connect buyers and sellers or through online auctions.

I recommend: Kitmondo connects buyer and seller of used lab equipment. DOTmed.com is an online auction and vendor of refurbished equipment.

Contact the pros for used analytical instruments and expert advice

Most companies that keep used analytical instruments in stock routinely bench test the equipment and offer limited warranties. If the company offers bench testing, make sure they have in stock all of the gases and solvents necessary in evaluation. Some companies offer installation while any quality used analytical equipment vendor should offer training.

I recommend: Refurbished analytical laboratory instruments experts Analytical Instrument Recycle was founded by chemist and lab expert Randy Greaves. Find any used lab instrument, purchased from leading manufacturers' overstock, through Lab Trader.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  The FDA expects all lab equipment to be regularly calibrated and tested. Ask the company you purchase used analytical laboratory instruments from for a list of suggested testers and keep a written schedule of when you perform any testing or adjustments.