Buy used material handling equipment to save money where it counts. Material handling equipment such as pallets, conveyors, scales and racks need to be useful, not pretty. While most good used material handling equipment is not trashed, it does not have to be sparkling new either. Providers of used material handling equipment want to make a good impression and will clean and refurbish used material handling equipment to make it useful and presentable.

Buy used material handling equipment for jobs that do not require constant, heavy use. Many companies put refurbished material handling equipment in areas that are used infrequently, but make a big difference in the overall operations. Used material handling equipment dealers are experienced and often sell new equipment as well. Used material handlers often can help you decide where you can best utilize used material handling equipment.

1. Take advantage of used material handling equipment dealers for practical advice.

2. Mix the use of pre-owned material handling equipment with new equipment.

3. Trade your used material handling equipment for newer upgrades.

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

Build trust with a used material handling equipment dealer

Experienced used material handling equipment dealers know the difference between junk and quality used material handling equipment. They can weed through the available equipment on the market to save you from making a poor purchase directly from an owner on your own. You can build a relationship with a used material handling equipment dealer who can keep an eye out for good deals and serve as a consultant for all your pre-owned material handling equipment needs.

I recommend: SJF has used material handling equipment for sale, as well as a complete line of in-stock equipment. With more than 20 years in the used materials handling business, they can be a good resource. MHE even employs what they call “pallet experts” to provide information on used material handling equipment.

Find a used material handling equipment dealer who also carries new equipment

While you may only use your conveyors or storage shelving a couple times a month, you may have other jobs, such as a conveyor system, that operates daily. Many of the used material handling equipment dealers also stock and sell new equipment. You can leverage your purchases and costs by using one supplier.

I recommend: Yankee Supply has been selling new and used material handling equipment for more than 30 years. Barloworld specializes in forklifts and other specialized new and pre-owned material handling equipment.

Sell your used material handling equipment to a used material handling equipment dealer

You can utilize used material handlers when you have used material handling equipment for sale. Most dealers will buy your equipment outright rather than work on a consignment basis. But any costs that you can recoup on pre-owned material handling equipment that is useless to you is worth the effort. Trading used material handling equipment is also an option with many dealers.

I recommend: Russell Equipment will buy used material handling equipment, refurbish and sell it. They also offer lease options for used and refurbished material handling equipment. American Surplus will purchase used material handling equipment and offers full-service consultation.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Ask for a warranty from all providers of used material handling equipment, even if you purchase equipment from a private source.