New vs. Used Stone Machinery: Key Differences To Know About

As a natural stone fabricator, you might come across a dilemma—purchasing new or used stone machinery. The decision can make or break your shop's productivity, so it's essential to weigh the pros and cons of both options. We’ll discuss the key differences between new and used stone machinery so you can make the best decision for your masonry business.

Reliability of New vs. Used Machinery

Most brand-new stone machinery is more reliable than used machinery. New machines go through rigorous manufacturing and testing phases, and the manufacturer guarantees their condition, often with a warranty.

Most used machinery doesn’t come with a warranty since you’re not purchasing it new. However, if the machinery is refurbished, it is often just as reliable as new equipment with a warranty.

Maintenance Costs

Maintenance costs are significant considerations when buying stone machinery. A new machine usually requires minimal maintenance in the first few years of operation. This makes up for the costs of a new machine.

However, if the manufacturer refurbishes used stone machinery, it can function like new and require little maintenance. Buying used machinery with low maintenance costs is a great way to save money.

Tech Upgrades

New machinery has great technology that makes them more efficient and safer to operate than older models. Used machinery may have outdated technology with fewer feedback systems, which can make it more challenging to execute certain techniques. However, older machines are often simpler and easier to use than new models and don’t require your team to learn how to operate them.

Depreciation Over Time

Another key difference to know between new and used stone machinery is the differences in depreciation, or the drop in value of an asset over time. Stone machinery is an asset for your business, so you must know how it will depreciate.

A new machine depreciates as soon as you take it out of the showroom, just like a new car depreciates when you drive it off the lot. Your machine can lose up to 35 percent of its value in the first year of operation. In contrast, a used machine with little use will maintain a reasonably stable value. This slower depreciation makes used machinery a considerable investment for your shop.

If you appreciate the reliability, low maintenance costs, simple technology, and slow depreciation of used machinery, check out our used stone machinery for sale at Stone Machinery Sales. Our equipment is refurbished, so it’s ready to go for your business!