The Ultimate Buyer's Guide for Purchasing Farm Equipment

Many farmers turn to used equipment as a cost-effective solution to meet their operational needs. There are various benefits of used farm equipment, from increased financial flexibility to having durable backup equipment when you need it most. Continue reading to explore the benefits of buying used farming equipment and best practices when doing so.

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Advantages of Purchasing Used Equipment

Buying used farming equipment can present several advantages for farmers:

• Lower upfront costs: Purchasing used farming equipment is often a more cost-effective solution than purchasing brand-new equipment. While older equipment may lack the advanced features of newer models, proper research can help you find used equipment that does the job efficiently. 
• Availability of parts and maintenance: Most established companies have a robust network of dealerships and distributors, ensuring the availability of parts for equipment, even years after the model’s production has ceased. This simplifies the maintenance and repair process on your equipment, reducing downtime so you can keep operations running smoothly.
• Established performance record: Most used equipment comes with an established performance record, providing insight into your equipment’s durability, reliability and performance before you make a purchase. You’ll find plenty of high-quality used equipment when conducting the right research and inspecting these records.
• Reduced depreciation: Unlike new equipment, which begins depreciating as soon as you take it off the lot, used equipment has undergone most of its depreciation. This means if you keep used equipment in good condition, you can recover more of your investment when you resell it.

Tips for Buying Used Farming Equipment 

When purchasing used farming equipment, you’ll want to carefully consider numerous factors. Here’s how to get started.

1. Assess Your Needs 

Consider the features you need in your used equipment. That way, you avoid spending money on something that doesn’t have the right features for the job. Consider things like:

• The size of your farm.
• Power demands.
• Necessary accessories.
• Weight of the equipment.
• Wheel spacing.
• Hydraulic capacity.

For example, many used tractors come fully equipped with air-conditioned cabs and hydraulic remotes. However, say the tractor you look at also has a short axle, and you need to use dual wheels. In this case, that one feature would render the equipment useless. So, it’s important to think about your specific needs and tasks before setting out looking for used equipment.

2. Research Models

During your research, think about the equipment that would work seamlessly with what you already have and the features you need. Compare models, makes and sizes to narrow options. When buying used farming equipment, the brand can make a big difference.

Major brands like CLAAS, Fendt, and Massey Ferguson provide parts that support equipment for years with a vast network of dealers. This means you have a higher chance of getting the parts you need to keep your equipment working. Also, consider that some machines are built with higher-quality parts and may last longer than a new machine built with lower-quality parts, so you’ll want to research brands before purchasing.

3. Choose a Reputable Dealer

It’s critical that you choose a reputable dealer for your used equipment. Professionals will provide transparent maintenance records and expert inspections to ensure your equipment is durable and reliable. After all, you’ll want to ensure your equipment is built to last and can get the job done, prevent downtime and avoid lost productivity. 

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Most dealers will recondition their used equipment and do a multipoint inspection before placing it on the market. If they believe it would be better to sell the used equipment without reconditioning it, they’ll list it as “selling as is” so you know before buying.

4. Inspect the Equipment

When you’ve narrowed your search and are considering a specific machine, inspect it closely. Check for leaks, uneven tire wear and structural issues. Pay attention to issues in the maintenance history, whether the machine was regularly serviced and if any repairs were done. If the equipment had extensive repairs, it could indicate future issues or that the supplier has saved you some money by already repairing it. 

5. Review Maintenance Records

Consider the years and hours on your equipment, as well as maintenance records. The older the equipment, the more difficult it could be to obtain parts, especially if you’re purchasing used equipment that isn’t from a well-established brand. Opt for used equipment with lower hours, as it will likely show less wear and have more life left in it. Ask your supplier for maintenance records, as this can provide insight into the equipment’s reliability. 

6. Follow Routine Maintenance

While you can get a better resale value from used equipment than new, you’ll need to perform regular maintenance. That way, you can keep your equipment in proper condition to avoid significant depreciation. This can be especially beneficial if you’re thinking of upgrading to a new machine in the future. 

Used Farming Equipment Types 

When searching for used farming equipment, you’ll find various types to accomplish all kinds of tasks. At Holt Ag Solutions, we offer the following used equipment types from top brands like CLAAS, Massey Ferguson and Fendt:

• Combines: Combines are essential tools to harvesting many crops such as rice, wheat, grass seed, and more. These massive machines use complex systems to accomplish several tasks on farms. At Holt Ag Solutions, we offer several high-quality used combines.
• Tractors: From compact tractors to wheeled and track tractors, we offer many used options that can meet the needs of both small-scale homesteaders and industrial-size farming operations. Plus, modern tractors can be outfitted with multiple attachments, making them suitable for all types of operations. 
• Hay equipment: You’ll find various types of used hay equipment attachments, from rakes and mowers to balers and tedders. Conveniently attach them to a compatible tractor and carry out tasks suitable for your operations. 
• Sprayers: These attachments spray pesticides, fertilizers and other substances over vast areas. They are a must-have for farming operations with large acreages. 
• Tillage equipment: Browse used, durable tillage attachments for your operations. Some can be used in smaller gardens, while others will take care of expansive fields quickly. 

Partner With Holt Ag Solutions for Reliable Farming Equipment

Used equipment is often a wise choice for farmers needing a cost-effective, reliable solution for their operations. At Holt Ag Solutions, we carry various types of agricultural machines from the most trusted manufacturers in the industry. Discover new and used farm equipment, ranging from combines and tractors to all-terrain vehicles, hay balers and cabs. We also carry sprayers, tillers and tool attachments for your equipment and applications. 

In the world of agriculture, having reliable machinery is essential for maximizing productivity and efficiency. However, purchasing brand new equipment can be a significant investment, especially for small-scale farmers or those just starting out. That's where buying used farm machinery comes into play. With the right approach, you can find high-quality, wellmaintained equipment at a fraction of the cost of new. Here's the ultimate guide to buying quality used farm machinery:

1. Assess Your Needs: Before you start searching for used farm machinery, it's crucial to assess your specific needs. Consider factors such as the size of your operation, the type of crops you grow, and the tasks you need the machinery to perform. This will help you narrow down your options and focus on equipment that meets your requirements.
2. Do Your Research: Once you have a clear understanding of your needs, research the types of machinery that are commonly used in your area and industry. Look into different brands, models, and features to determine which ones are best suited for your farm.
3. Inspect Thoroughly: When shopping for used farm machinery, never skip the inspection process. Inspect each piece of equipment carefully, looking for signs of wear and tear, rust, leaks, and other potential issues. If possible, hire a qualified mechanic to inspect the machinery for you to ensure that it's in good working condition.
4. Check Maintenance Records: Ask the seller for maintenance records and documentation of any repairs or upgrades that have been done to the equipment. A well-maintained machine is more likely to be reliable and perform well over time.
5. Test Drive: If you're purchasing a tractor, combine, or other self-propelled equipment, be sure to test drive it before making a decision. Observe how it steers, accelerates, and brakes. You should also listen for any odd vibrations or noises.  
6. Consider the Age and Hours: While age and hours of use aren't the only factors to consider when buying used farm machinery, they can provide valuable insights into the equipment's condition and potential lifespan. Generally, newer machinery with fewer hours will have less wear and tear and may require less maintenance.
7. Negotiate the Price: Don't be afraid to negotiate the price when buying used farm machinery. Do your research to determine the fair market value of the equipment, taking into account factors such as age, condition, and features. Be prepared to walk away if the seller isn't willing to negotiate a fair price.
8. Factor in Additional Costs: Remember to factor in additional costs such as transportation, insurance, and any necessary repairs or upgrades when budgeting for used farm machinery. While buying used can save you money upfront, it's essential to consider the total cost of ownership over the life of the equipment.
9. Buy from Reputable Sellers: When buying used farm machinery, it's crucial to purchase from reputable sellers who stand behind their products. Look for dealerships, auction houses, or private sellers with a track record of honesty and integrity.
10. Ask for Warranty or Guarantee: Some sellers may offer a warranty or guarantee on used farm machinery, providing added peace of mind. Be sure to ask about any warranty coverage and what it includes before finalizing the purchase.

By following these tips, you can navigate the process of buying quality used farm machinery with confidence. With careful research, thorough inspection, and smart negotiation, you can find reliable equipment that meets your needs and helps you achieve success on the farm.

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