5 Used CNC Machine Buying Tips | If you are in certain industries, you probably know about CNC machines already. If you’re not in those niches, though, you may not have heard of this particular device.
CNC is shorthand for computer numerical control. You use a computer to exert automated control over machining tools for various purposes, usually product creation. There are different tasks that you can assign the computer to do, and it will direct the machining tools to execute them.
They are helpful devices because when you utilize them, you can save time over having humans assemble the same products. They also make human error less likely, and there are fewer injury risks.
You can buy either brand-new or used CNC machines. We’ll go over some tips right now if you’re interested in pursuing this latter option.
You Might Buy Based on Brand
If you’re thinking about purchasing used CNC machines, you might buy based on brand recognition. There are some well-regarded brands that the industry knows, such as Doosan, Mazak, Makino, Okuma, DMG Mori, and Kitamura.
In this regard, buying a used CNC machine is the same as buying a used car. You wouldn’t pay the same price for a used Toyota that you would for a Maserati.
If you’re unsure which brands you should trust, do a little bit of research beforehand. You’ll quickly find plenty about each brand on message boards and social media.
You can also check out the brand’s website to see what they have to say about their products. The customer feedback or recommendations might impress you.
Comparison Shop
You should look at how much several different companies want for the used CNC machine you need. If there are only one or two entities that carry them, that should narrow down your options quite a bit. Usually, though, you’ll find several outlets looking to unload their used CNC machines.
See who offers the best price, and if there’s an obvious winner, you can decide that way. Also, consider whether a company wants a certain price for a two-year-old machine, but whether another outlet wants considerably less for a five-year-old version.
If you’re okay with getting an older one with more mileage, you can save some serious money that way, and it always helps to lower your operating budget.
See for Yourself Whether the Machine Works
You might also feel like you have found a company with the used CNC machine that you want, and they’re offering it at a price that you can afford. Before you part with your money, see if they will let you watch the machine in action.
If they won’t, that could be a red flag. If they don’t let you see it working, then at the very least, make sure that they offer you some kind of a warranty on it. If they give you a ninety-day return policy with no questions asked, that should make you feel better than if you buy one without seeing it work, and the seller has a strict no return policy.
See if You Can Score a Better Bulk Rate
You might also ask if you can get a better deal when you buy several machines at once. Most used CNC machine dealers will give you preferential treatment if you’re purchasing several units at the same time.
If they are not willing to haggle a little bit, then you might go with another company that will. When you’re dealing with used CNC machines, keep in mind that you are not going directly through the manufacturer. The seller should be willing to engage in a bit of horse-trading with you.
Try to Cultivate Personal Seller Relationships
If you’re in an industry where you need used CNC machines one time, then it’s highly likely that you’ll need more in the future. These machines don’t last forever, and if you buy them used, then they’re not going to work as long. You can get them cheaper, but that reduces their working life expectancy.
Because of this, it’s best if you try to get friendly with the seller. Learn their name, and attempt to negotiate with them and treat them like a human being rather than a faceless corporate entity. Make it clear this could be a long-term relationship.
Once you do that, getting a better deal is more likely. You might know this individual for years if you have to make several of these purchases. Your companies could be able to help each other tremendously.
