The highlights and drawbacks of buying used lab equipment

While working with the latest and up-to-date equipment is the wish of every lab owner, it is maybe impossible due to budget limitations. Therefore, you may have to purchase used and refurbished equipment in such instances. While it may appear counterintuitive to pursue the secondhand way, if you know what to look for and ask the appropriate questions, you can reduce the danger involved. Though there is considerable opposition to the concept, the basis is the same as buying a used vehicle or anything on eBay. Many companies have policies to disperse old equipment around departments, divisions, and even nations.

Here are some of the pros  and cons of buying used lab equipment san Diego

PROS:

• Price

 The cost of secondhand equipment is always less than new equipment. So, ideally, you should be able to find high-quality gear for a fraction of the original asking price. Furthermore, the savings you’d be generating might make a significant impact on most laboratories’ budgets. Notably,   machinery depreciates in its first few years; buying secondhand allows you to have reliable equipment where the depreciation expenses have already been absorbed by someone else. Just because you’ve decided to acquire secondhand equipment doesn’t imply it’ll be unreliable. To purchase their certified old equipment, several companies promise a comprehensive examination, product support, and extended coverage. It’s better to double-check with your provider ahead of time to determine if they provide such services than to discover they don’t after you’ve made a purchase. Moreover, you may find some hidden gems when buying some ex-demo equipment. Such equipment is frequently still in the current product range of a manufacturer and might be offered with a regular warranty.

• Low chances of backed up orders

when buying new, backed-up orders might mean a longer waiting period for this new equipment. This can cause delays in research and experimentation and increase the overall cost of your laboratory. Whether you’re purchasing new, ensure to double-check any lead-time with your salesperson.

CONS

• UNKNOWN SUPPLIER

It’s crucial to ask questions regarding the equipment you’re considering buying, but keep in mind that you’re just going on their word. You might be taking a chance on a provider that lacks credentials, inspections, or certificates. There’s also no way of knowing how the prior lab utilized, examined, or maintained the equipment. Also, bear in mind that you’ll be on your own for future support if you buy old equipment.

• POOR CONDITION EQUIPMENT

Compare the older, less expensive models to their newer equivalents; will the cost savings outweigh the new model’s increased production and efficiency? For the most part, secondhand equipment means it’s out of date. Additionally, this might indicate that the equipment you’re purchasing is in bad condition, resulting in additional charges if you need to fix it once it arrives. When negotiating with a supplier, be careful of any hidden fees or equipment damage that may be withheld from you.

• THEY LACK WARRANTY

Similarly, purchasing equipment privately from an unknown provider may imply no warranty to ensure your pleasure with the product. Make sure you do your homework first.

Therefore, ensure you do your assignment and research before purchasing a used item