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But how do you find good quality second-hand tools? The following 6 tips will help you reach an informed decision:

1. In-Depth Reseach

This is a good place to start if you are unfamiliar with tool brands and are unsure of what features to look for. Start researching for the types of tools you need and where they are available. You can research online and gather valuable information about the tools. Head to a local store to get a good look at them. You can even look at some tools in the pawnshops or check if someone is selling surplus stock at a lower price.

2. Prefer Brand Over Price

After you have decided which used machinery you need and set aside the budget for it, check all the brands that offer you what you require. A reputed brand is absolutely necessary when you are considering buying a second-hand tool. A good brand will ensure good performance and service. While they may be expensive as compared to a few brands, it proves to be cost-effective in the long run. Low-cost brands don’t assure longevity or good performance once the tool reaches a certain age, which means you would have to buy a new tool and spend more money than you intended.

3. Inspect Closely

Inspect the second-hand equipment extremely closely before buying. Examine the electrical as well as the basic mechanics of the tool. Plug it in and turn it on to check if it runs the way it should. Check for visible defects and signs of tape being wrapped around wires which would be a huge red flag. Inspect how the usage affected the tool and if there are any signs of potential damage.

4. Don’t Focus on the Appearance

 Looks can be deceiving. It is natural to be put off looking at a tool that looks dirty and filthy, but there is a good chance that it works extremely well. The reason why it looks filthy might be that it hasn’t been used much and has been lying around in the shed for a really long time. Give such tools a try and see how they work, despite their appearance.

5. Check the Power Cords

A glimpse at the power cord should give you an idea of how it was used. If you see any of the following issues, it means that the tool has been used to its maximum potential and doesn’t have much life left in the motor:

 -    If the plug is badly bent or the ground connector is broken

-    If the cord isn’t firmly secured to the tool or the connection is loose

-    If the wires are clearly visible

Don’t procure the used construction equipment until you are satisfied that the power cord is in good condition and firmly secured to the tool.

6. Take a Hint from the Surroundings

If you get a chance to check the tools in person, do it. This will give you a chance to see where the tools were used and kept until that point. If it is an organised and meticulous workshop, you will be more confident of the tools being of a high quality and in good working condition as the seller would know how to care for the tools. Conversely, if you see a tool kept in a messy toolbox with different tools in varied states of disrepair, then it should be a warning sign.

Once you understand the exact requirements, you can look for sellers who put up used machinery for sale in Indiaat a good price.

Author: Avi Patel 

Avi Patel is an engineer by heart and a digital marketer by trade. He works for EzyTrader – a premium marketplace for used equipment, and creates content on topics related to engineering, technology, marketing and trading.