The used crane market is particularly buoyant at the moment. This is due in part to global economic uncertainty, and also difficulties in securing raw materials to construct new cranes, leading to long lead times to purchase new machinery.
If you are in the market for a used crane, there are lots of things to think about. Read on to find out what to consider when comparing used cranes for sale, to ensure that you make the right decision for your business.
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Setting a Budget for Your Used Crane
The used crane market can seem a little overwhelming to begin with. It will help you to narrow down the search if you have a clear budget in mind.
However, you should bear in mind that buying a crane, even a second-hand one, is a major outlay. If you compromise too much on price, you could end up with safety and reliability challenges.
If you only need the crane for a defined period of time or to complete a specific job, you could consider crane rental instead. This can be a more economical option in some cases.
Determine the Right Model
It’s a huge investment, so you want to be sure that your used crane is able to meet your business needs, both now and in the future. With many different models available, you need to consider what the crane will be used for and the environment in which it will operate.
A used gantry crane, for example, can lift extremely heavy objects using its hoists. This makes it a popular choice for shipbuilding and other heavy industries. A used crane truck, as the name suggests, can move around to different areas across a site, so this may be more useful on a construction project.
Used Crane Inspections
It’s essential to thoroughly inspect used cranes for sale before committing to a purchase. If you don’t feel confident undertaking this yourself, it’s possible to get help from an independent inspector to assist you with your purchase.
You need to assess any damage and wear and tear to the crane, and also consider the history of the equipment. Has it had any major issues that needed repair? How old is the machine and does it have a full service history? What environmental conditions has it been working under?
All these things contribute to your assessment of the crane’s safety, useability, and overall value for your business. It’s a big decision, so don’t rush it. Safety is the critical issue with crane ownership so you need to be sure that you’re purchasing a piece of equipment that will not present you with unacceptable hazards.
Purchasing Your Used Crane
Owning a used crane can be a great investment for any building or industrial company. But it’s a big decision, so you should make sure you consider all the issues mentioned above.
We hope you’ve found this article useful. Don’t hesitate to check out more great business and technology content on the rest of the blog.
