How To Buy A Crane
There are a lot of advantages to buying a Pre-Owned crane. Obviously the cost is going to be less than the purchase of a new crane and the savings will be in the thousands of dollars. Often the savings can be over $100,000 dollars. This can make a big difference in the budget for project or business operation. But like any purchase there are things to be aware of.
Finding a Pre-Owned crane
Cranes are advertised in trade publications, websites, Craigslist, eBay and local newspapers and Auto/Truck classified sections. One of the challenges you face is trying to see all the available inventory. When looking at local publications there is some advantage to being able to easily visit the crane and it reduces the transportation cost. But it does limit your choices and a better crane may be available elsewhere.
Talking to an full time crane seller can be a prudent thing to do. At CranesList we list cranes who's owners have chosen to offer their cranes through us. But we constantly monitor the various publications and work with a network of other crane dealers and are aware of many cranes not listed on the site. We often participate in the sale of cranes that are not listed on our site. We do not charge you to do this. Even if you buy your crane elsewhere. It's our belief that providing this kind of service brings customers back.
We will try to help you find a crane even if it is not on our site. Just tell us what you are looking for.
Know what your looking for
There are lot different types of cranes. Rough Terrain or All Terrain? Truck mounted or Trailer? Hydraulic or Lattice? There have been a lot of advancements in crane technology. Identifying what type of crane best meets your need is important. Knowing in advance how much you will need to lift and how often can narrow down your search. Also consider where the crane is operating. Are there considerations with access or accessibility?
Crane History - Service, Usage, Upkeep, Repairs and Inspection.
Knowing the history of the crane can help educate the buyer. Where was the crane used and how? Service and Inspection records can provide a lot of this information. All cranes require regular upkeep and repair. Seeing the service records and inspections of a pre-owned crane can be helpful both in determining how well the Crane was maintained but what kind of service it will require in the future.
Inspection of the Crane before purchase
Before buying a crane prospective owner should ALWAYS have the crane inspected by a Crane Inspector and a Mechanic. The cost to do this pales in comparison to what failure to catch something major before the purchase will cost to remedy.
Beware of Scams. Be careful at closing.
Cranes sell for a lot of money so of course there are scammers out there. Buying a crane is more akin to buying a home than it is to buying a car. You should work with a company that has experience in the necessary paperwork and conditions for the transfer of funds that will ensure you have a successful transaction. We have 10 years experience in making these kind of transactions positive ones.
It's Negotiable
In most cases crane sellers are open to hear conter-offers on their cranes. And often there are circumstances unique to each buyer and seller that may lead to conditions of the sale that can affect the final selling price. At CranesList we are always trying to find the deal that works best for both buyer and seller.
Let us Help
CranesList loves working with buyers. We can help you determine what you should be looking form and hopefully find that for you. Our hope is that even if we aren't selling you the crane that you will remember our customer service in the future.
