Should You Choose Refurbished Material Handling Equipment?

Material handling equipment is undeniably the backbone of many industries. Whether you’re moving boxes in a warehouse, shifting heavy equipment, or managing bulk items, the right equipment can increase efficiency and save on labor costs.

However, the decision to buy new or go for refurbished equipment is a challenge many businesses grapple with. There’s no need to worry, though, as we’re here to help you come to the decision that’s right for you.

What is Material Handling Equipment?

Material handling equipment encompasses tools, vehicles, and machinery used to move, store, control, and protect materials and products throughout the manufacturing, distribution, consumption, and disposal processes. It's essential for efficient workflow and safety in industries like warehousing, manufacturing, and construction.

Types of Material Handling Equipment

There are many different types of material handling equipment, so let’s take a look at some examples to give you a better understanding:

Transport equipment

• Forklifts - Common in warehouses to move products on pallets.
• Conveyors - Often seen in factories to move products down an assembly line.
• Hand trucks - Useful for moving smaller loads in shorter distances, commonly found in retail and warehouses.
• Cranes - Deployed in construction sites to move heavy materials vertically and horizontally.
• Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) - Robots that follow marked paths or use vision cameras to transport materials around a facility.

Storage equipment

• Racking systems - These allow goods to be stored vertically to maximize space.
• Shelving - For smaller items or products in a retail environment.
• Stacking frames - Useful for bulky items and can be piled on top of each other.

Unit load formation equipment

• Pallets - Platforms used for moving goods and products.
• Bulk load containers - Large containers used for shipping and storing bulk products.

Positioning equipment

• Dock levelers - Useful for loading and unloading trucks.
• Hoists - Helps in lifting heavy items.
• Turntables - Platforms rotated by workers or machines to assist in the assembly or processing of products.
• Tilters - Devices used to tilt a container so that its contents are more accessible.
• Lift Tables - Platforms that can be elevated to bring the work to a comfortable height, often used in assembly operations.

Why Choose Refurbished Material Handling Equipment?

When you hear the term 'refurbished,' it might conjure images of worn-out, second-hand equipment that’s simply been patched up. However, that's far from the truth. Refurbished, in the context of material handling equipment, means a product that has been professionally restored to a state almost as good as new.

So, why is a refurbished material handling equipment lease a good choice?

Cost-effective without compromising on quality

Investing in refurbished equipment allows you to make the most of your budget. You often get machinery and tools that would have been out of your financial reach if you were considering only brand-new options.

Also, contrary to popular belief, refurbished doesn't equate to lesser performance. With proper refurbishing, these pieces of equipment can match the performance levels of their newer counterparts.

A greener option

Every piece of equipment that's refurbished is one less item in a landfill. This is an excellent way to minimize your company’s waste and make the most of resources already in circulation. Manufacturing new equipment consumes raw materials and energy. By opting for refurbished equipment, you're indirectly reducing the demand for these resources and promoting sustainability.

Quality assurance - A seal of trust 

Refurbished equipment doesn't just get a superficial makeover. It undergoes a comprehensive overhaul where faulty parts are replaced, and the equipment is tuned to meet the original specifications. When you buy certified refurbished equipment, it means the machinery has passed a series of stringent tests and checks. This assures you of its quality, reliability, and durability.

Extra peace of mind with warranties

Many refurbished products come with warranties, similar to what you'd get with a brand-new item. This not only assures you of its functionality but also offers peace of mind in case of unforeseen issues.

Choosing the Right Refurbished Equipment: A Step-by-step Guide

Now you know why refurbished equipment makes sense, here are some quick tips to choose a material handling equipment provider:

1. Research the supplier - Before anything, research your supplier. Are they reputable? What do reviews say?
2. Check for certifications - Ensure the refurbished item is certified. This indicates it has met certain quality standards.
3. Ask about the warranty - As mentioned, like new equipment, refurbished items should come with a warranty. This gives you peace of mind and assurance about its quality.
4. Compare prices - While refurbished is cheaper, ensure you're getting a good deal by comparing prices with other suppliers.

Precautions When Opting for Refurbished

• Inspect before purchase - If possible, inspect the equipment personally. Check for any visible damages or signs of wear and tear.
• Know the refurbishing process - Understand what parts were replaced or repaired. This gives a clear picture of what you're buying.
• Avoid models that are too old - If the equipment is too outdated, even if refurbished, it might not serve your needs for long. Look for relatively recent models.

Refurbished Material Handling Equipment Can Unlock Business Success

Choosing refurbished material handling equipment can be a wise decision for businesses looking to save money without compromising on quality. However, it's crucial to be meticulous in your selection process. Remember, in the world of machinery, due diligence is the key to getting good value for your money.