When it comes to business in the fields, the cost of operation continues to rise. Whether it’s feed for the livestock, sprays for crop disease, or employing field hands—doing business on today’s farm is much more cost-prohibitive than it was a few years ago. If you haven’t thought of it already, buying pre-owned farm equipment may be one way to help tighten the reins on spending, but be careful. Here are some considerations for used versus new tools of the trade:[emember_protected custom_msg=”Click here and register now to read the rest of the article!”]
- First thing, consider who you’re buying the equipment from. Is it your community dealer, friend, farmer in the same type of business, or auction? What assurance does the seller offer that the equipment is in working order? Is there still a warranty on the equipment? If it’s your community dealer, sometimes they will offer a warranty, which is always a nice benefit.
- Stick with the brands you trust. If you’ve had great experience with a particular tractor or trailer, then stick with that brand during your pre-owned equipment search. If it’s not a brand you know first hand, then do your research. In most cases you can find out what other farmers think about the brand by searching online.
- Before you buy, thoroughly inspect the equipment. If it’s just “operational,” that’s not going to cut it. You need equipment you can depend on from the get-go. If you notice any damages before you buy, then estimate the cost of repair and consider if it’s still worth the purchase.
All of these factors could lead you down the road of an excellent find or an equipment bust. However, if you do your homework, you can walk away with the right tool at a price that will keep some funds in your business’s pocket.
CREDITS
column by BAXTER TROUTMAN
BIO: Baxter Troutman is founder and chief executive officer of Labor Solutions, a staffing company with offices in Bartow, Winter Haven, Lake Wales, and Arcadia. A citrus grower who served in the Florida House of Representatives, Troutman understands the challenges and concerns of today’s farmer. [/emember_protected]
