Pricing and Costs of Snow Cone Machines

Stay within your budget by knowing your purchasing options for snow cone machines

There are several options you can consider when shopping for a snow cone makers, which grind ice into small coarse pellets. Syrup is then poured on top and sinks to the bottom creating a cold, refreshing drink. Shave ice machines are more expensive than sno cone machines because the process includes shaving ice from blocks or cubes to create a fine, light snow-like consistency that adheres to syrup. The product is then eaten with a spoon.

Determine whether you want a shaved ice machine or snow cone machine and the size and number your business needs. Then, set your budget for the equipment with the following information in mind:

1. Go with a brand new machine with available warranty to feel at ease if any issues should arise early on.

2. Consider a smaller machine if larger ones are out of your price range and if your usage will be special occasions instead of full-time.

3. Consider used or refurbished ice shaving machines to get started.

Research ice shavers and snow cone equipment to know your options

There are several kinds of sno cone machines you can consider for your business. A commercial snow cone machine will be electric-, gas- or battery-operated. Automatic snow cone machines focus on high production. Hand cranked snow cone machines are great for small venues, or for showing off how ice shaving used to be done.

Find snow cone machines for sale, rent, or lease

Size matters when investigating pricing and costs of snow cone machines. A small electric snow cone maker can be well under one hundred dollars, while a large commercial machine can cost thousands. Knowing how much use the machine will get and how often the machine will be used should come into play when budgeting for your ice shaving machine. Depending on where you live, snow cone machines or ice shaving equipment is available for lease or rent for as little as $20 per day.

Keep maintenance costs of sno cone machines in mind

New isn't always the best route when considering equipment for a start-up company, but it is tempting due to the peace of mind you get when purchasing never-before-used equipment. If purchasing new equipment, you can wrap a maintenance agreement into the costs. But if you are purchasing used equipment, make sure to budget for unexpected maintenance costs for the type of equipment you buy. Service plans can run from $12 per year and up, where fix-as-you-go repairs can easily run hundreds of dollars.

• Don't be overly concerned about the cosmetic beauty of a snow cone machine. You should focus on a machine crafted for its utility and ability to withstand use, instead of how pretty it looks.
• You can find seldom-used snow cone and ice shaving equipment for sale on Internet auction sites, and in your local newspaper's classified ads.

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