Whether you’re buying heavy machinery or computers or even portable machinery, you need to make sure that all the specs fit your business. Such equipment is often a huge expense. Knowing what to look for can save you time and hassle later down the line.
Convenience vs cost
The most important thing to weigh up when buying machinery is whether the convenience is worth the cost. Are you going to get the use out of it make the return? For many, pieces of machinery involved in mass production such as 3D printers and packing machines, the cost can often be worth the convenience. However, buying a floor scrubbing machine for cleaning a floor might not be worthwhile if you’re only going to use it once a year – hiring a machine in such cases may be easier. Similarly avoid high-end models of machines unless you’re going to make use of all the complexities they offer. Modern machinery can come with multiple settings and computer analytics features, which may only be worthwhile if you’re using multiple settings and need that extra precision.
Checking the condition
Second-hand machinery will often be much cheaper. But you should consider whether this age and condition will have ramifications later down the line. Repairs may need to be more regularly made and parts may be harder to find. Old computer-based machinery may be outdated. In all case, you should try and check the condition before buying. This may mean travelling to check out the machinery in person, but could worth it in the long run. Also, for heavy machinery, check that there are appropriate documents available such a safety manual and service history.
Equipping your premises
Your premises needs to be equipped for the machinery you’re buying. You may need to upgrade to a bigger space when buying heavy machinery, although some heavy machinery such as belt conveyors for handling materials can often be sculpted to fit your location. Check that the premises has appropriate electrical outlets and ventilation for the machinery that you’re using. If the building you’re using is old or on an upper level and you’re buying heavy machinery, get a surveyor to check that the structure can withstand the weight of the machinery that you’re buying.
For portable machinery, you may have to check that the vehicle you’re using can support such a weight.
User friendliness
Some machinery may have to be assembled on site. Many suppliers of such machinery can assemble it for you, although this may be an added cost. Portable machinery may need to be assembled and disassembled before and after transport, so check that this assembly and disassembly process doesn’t take too long or isn’t too complex.
Ask for demo when buying machinery so that you know how to operate it, including processes such as cleaning and maintenance. Remember that you will potentially have to train up staff to use this machinery, so you don’t want it to be too complex. Foreign computer-based machinery may have to be converted into another language. Also ensure you know all health and safety precautions so that can protect you and your staff from injury.