Exapro Survey Offers Snapshot of Used Machine Buyers

Exapro, an online marketplace for used industrial equipment that is active in the European market, recently conducted a survey of more than 300 used machinery buyers to understand their behaviors and expectations.

Part of the findings confirm what one might expect about these buyers, specifically in regard to their priorities. The survey responses indicate that buyers’ most important criteria in evaluating used equipment are, in order of importance:

1. The price of the equipment;

2. The location of the machine and the resulting impact on shipping costs as well as the cultural differences involved in making a deal; and

3. The age and state of the equipment.

Other findings relate to the habits and needs of these buyers. Fifty percent of buyers said they start researching a potential purchase at least one month before the date they will need the machine. That research includes collecting missing data about the machine (technical parameters as well as possibly pictures and video) and visiting the machine to see it running.

Two thirds of buyers say they are not looking for a particular machine manufacturer. That is, the buyers are flexible about the machine manufacturer and are more focused on the technical data concerning the machine.

Sixty percent of buyers say they have clearly defined a budget before looking for a machine. This means 40 percent do not have a precise idea of their budget or the price they are willing to pay for the machine before they begin their search.