Your Ultimate Guide to Buying Used Farm Equipment
Buying used farm equipment can be an excellent way to save money while getting the machines you need to keep your farming operations rolling. However, purchasing pre-owned machines can be intimidating if you don't know what to look for. Thankfully, you have help at hand.
Ziegler AG, your local used farm equipment dealer, serves multiple locations throughout Minnesota, Iowa, Missouri, and Wisconsin. We've created this guide to discuss a few strategies for buying used farm equipment, so keep reading to learn more!
Research Various Options
Before exploring used equipment for sale near you, determine your needs. You'll want to research the tools that will work best for your farm, including the make, model, and brand. This information can help narrow your choices and prevent you from buying the wrong equipment. You can also compare prices across different brands and models to find the best deals.
Inspect the Equipment
Next, you’ll want to inspect the used equipment thoroughly before committing to purchase.
Ideally, look for any signs of wear and tear, check the controls, and test the machinery to ensure its safety and efficiency. If you aren't familiar with the equipment, seek the assistance of a mechanic to help you examine it. This will ensure you buy equipment that will last and function safely.
Check Maintenance Records
At this point, you’ll want to check your used farm equipment’s maintenance records to ensure you’re getting the quality you deserve.
Ask the seller for maintenance records, including any repairs or replacements they made. This will give you an insight into how well the equipment was cared for by the previous owner. If the seller can't provide you with the vehicle’s service history, this could be a red flag, and you may want to consider looking elsewhere.
Negotiate the Price
Finally, negotiate the price before getting the machine home.
Sellers often agree to lower the price if you pay in cash or if the equipment has been on the market for a while. You can also use any issues you found during your inspection or lack of maintenance records as bargaining chips. Be sure to do your research beforehand so you know what a fair price is for the equipment you're interested in buying.
Are you ready to explore used farm equipment for sale near you? Visit Ziegler AG to peruse our latest inventory of pre-owned machinery from various premium brands. We can show you what’s available and help you select a model that fits your budget and needs. You’ll find us in Minnesota, Iowa, Missouri, and Wisconsin, so swing by today!