Hear the phrase “used agricultural machinery” and immediately visualize the dilapidated appearance and condition of different tractors, collectors, combines, plows, and so on. You are unlikely to need to imagine them in pristine condition, and in fact you may think of used farm equipment as something to avoid. However, there are many benefits to buying used, and we’re going to go over ten of the best reasons to consider this option:

1. New Businesses Can Save Huge Amounts of Money – A new farm business of any kind can immediately cut start-up costs drastically by opting for used machinery. Depending on the focus of the farm, the savings can be enjoyed in almost any area – from nut carts and plows to tillage equipment and heavy duty tractors, reliable used equipment is always available.

2. Your lender may insist. It is not unusual to find that your lender specifies that the used equipment must be purchased with the funds. This is, again, a way to control start-up costs and ensure the farm has the right machinery without going broke.

3. Backup machines. There are few farms that can be put on hold while something is being repaired, and buying used provides an affordable method of keeping a replacement machine on hand.

4. The “life cycle” of farm equipment is predictable. You may not be aware that all farm machinery has a general “life cycle” that predicts the number of hours it can be used (average use) before wearing out. This allows you to buy used farm equipment and reasonably estimate the amount of use you will be able to put out of the equipment.

5. Machinery for seasonal use. Do you collect seasonal produce (like peanuts)? If so, buying used farm equipment will give you low cost and many years of seasonal / low hour use.

6. Greener business. Although an older machine may not be as fuel efficient, buying used machinery is one way to reduce the size of your overall carbon footprint. There is no need to invest in new equipment and taking advantage of the many used items is extremely environmentally friendly.

7. Brand names. You can get a brand name machine for a very low cost when you buy used, and this will allow you to find parts easily and avoid the problems associated with lesser known brands (i.e., they have closed and parts are impossible to obtain). ).

8. Technical specifications. If you compare the performance specs of a new machine with those of an older model, it is not unusual to see a tiny difference. Buying used farm machinery means high-end functionality at a low price.

9. Swaps. Just as car owners like to lease and upgrade every two to three years, so do farmers. You can get a great deal on an exchange and know that it was kept in good shape, used with care, and was a great bargain.

10. Testing – Most used equipment dealers allow a trial of larger equipment, and this is something few new dealers will offer.

Buying used farm equipment offers many other benefits, but these are some of the strongest arguments for looking for farm equipment that will save you money while providing excellent performance.