The Pros and Cons of Buying New vs Used Equipment

To address the equipment needs of our clients in a wide range of industries that include construction, transportation, restaurants, and medical equipment suppliers, Universal Finance offers financing that keeps businesses on track to meet deadlines and avoid interruptions in the projects they are working on. Our creative financing programs and customizable payment plans provide borrowers with the funds they need to purchase equipment and obtain working capital.

When a customer comes to us to obtain financing, one question that often comes up is whether it is better to buy equipment that is new or used. Because every customer’s needs are unique, there is no right answer, but there are some general guidelines in most industries when it comes to buying equipment. Making the choice between new or used depends on the unique position of the business and what the short and long-term equipment inventory needs are.

One of the biggest pros of buying used equipment is the lower upfront cost. It’s usually the main reason a business chooses used. However, other pros include retention of value and lower insurance costs. One of the cons of buying used equipment could be the fact that the equipment might be in bad condition and will require ongoing maintenance. We always encourage our customers to really try out and inspect the equipment before buying so they don’t encounter this problem down the road.

Similarly, there are also upsides and downsides when it comes to buying new equipment. Among the pros of buying new include trouble-free operation, a warranty, up-to-date technology, and tax advantages. These advantages come with a big price tag, though, which is the biggest con for buying new equipment. Newer equipment also has a rapid depreciation of value compared to used equipment.

The bottom line is – there are many factors to consider when deciding whether to purchase new or used equipment. Each purchasing route has pros and cons, and these factors can be applied to the construction industry as well as the other industries that Universal Finance serves. The team at Universal Finance will work directly with you to provide the guidance you need to choose the right equipment for your business and to secure the financing you need to acquire it.

Click here to learn more about equipment financing or call us at 781-219-0511 to speak with a representative today!