New vs Used Industrial Cranes – Which Is Right For Your Business?

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No matter the business, your bottom line matters. So when your business involves expensive equipment like below-the-hook cranes, you need to make smart purchases. One way businesses who use cranes try to improve their bottom line is by purchasing used industrial cranes. Buying used equipment can have its challenges, so you need to know how to go about it. Once you’ve done your due diligence, you should be able to find used equipment that meets your needs at a price you can handle. 

New vs Used Industrial Cranes - Which Is Right For Your Business?

What To Look For

When buying used industrial cranes, it is essential to conduct a full inspection before making a purchase. Your broker should allow you to inspect anything you are considering buying. If they don’t, it’s a major red flag. You need a reputable and honest company as well – online and word-of-mouth reviews are essential in making that determination. Trustworthy companies will offer as much information as possible – what’s working, what’s missing, what’s worn, and what’s in need of repair or replacement. 

Questions To Ask

It’s also important to ask the right questions. For example, how old is the crane? If the crane is almost to the end of its lifespan, it may not be worth the purchase even if the price is very low. How often was the crane operated? Some used industrial cranes are operated every single workday for 8-16 hour shifts while others spend most of their time in storage. This is essential information when making a purchase. Something else to consider is whether the company is selling all of the major components of the crane like the trolley, hoist, bridge and end trucks. You never want to unknowingly purchase a crane system without the essential components. Also, depending on the age of the system, they may not sell compatible components anymore. 

This may sound obvious but you must check whether or not the electrical systems turn on and operate properly. Sometimes mechanical components of a crane can be in mint condition but, if the electrical components don’t function, the whole system is compromised. Finally, ask for maintenance records from the previous owner. This helps you get an idea of how often inspections were carried out and how much care went into maintaining the equipment. 

Final Price

Something else to consider when buying used industrial cranes is the fact that you often aren’t making a single purchase. You must factor in all of the other costs in order to get the final price. For example, you may need to repair or replace components. You also need to factor the cost of inspection, installation, testing, pick up or delivery, structural defects, and engineering studies. Once you calculate these expenses, you can get an accurate view of how much you are saving by choosing used equipment.

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New Or Used Industrial Cranes

If you are planning on buying used industrial cranes or are looking for a reputable inspection and repair company, look no further than SISSCO  Material Handling Equipment. For over 45 years we’ve made the manufacturing and maintenance processes more efficient, cost-effective and safe. 

Our technicians and field operations team offers the industry’s most experienced overhead crane and hoist mechanics and electricians. Our highly skilled parts and service team is also here to make sure we can help our customers maintain a safe working environment for their overhead lifting equipment. 

We also specialize in providing maintenance services and parts, for other material handling equipment. Our manufacturing, installation and Crane safety solutions keep businesses moving forward. Contact us today to get in touch with the best in the business.