Buying New vs. Pre-Owned Commercial Printing Equipment
When it comes to purchasing printing machines, one of the first decisions you’ll face is whether to buy brand-new or pre-owned commercial printing equipment. Each carries its own set of advantages and potential drawbacks. The choice you make doesn’t just impact your initial investment, either; it influences long-term operational costs and productivity.
Let’s delve into a detailed comparison of new and pre-owned printing equipment—our goal is to provide comprehensive information that guides you toward an informed decision.
Buying New
If you’re thinking about buying brand-new commercial printing equipment, weigh the pros and cons first. Will new equipment benefit you more than pre-owned?
The Pros
- Access to the latest technology, potentially improving efficiency and productivity
- Unlikely to require immediate maintenance
- Designed with energy efficiency in mind
The Cons
- Initial costs are much higher than pre-owned models
- Depreciates in value once you put it into use
- Longer lead time between order and delivery
Buying Pre-Owned
Have the prices and offerings of pre-owned printing equipment caught your eye? Pre-owned models present their own set of perks and potential drawbacks.
The Pros
- Retains its value, as it’s already undergone depreciation
- Lower up-front costs than new models
- Generally available for immediate purchase and use
The Cons
- Potential for hidden maintenance issues and needed repairs
- Outdated technology that may limit printing capabilities
- Potentially higher maintenance costs
Factors To Consider As You Choose
Still having difficulty choosing between brand-new and pre-owned printing equipment? Think about the following factors and how they are relevant to your current situation.
Initial Investment
New equipment comes with a higher price tag than pre-owned items, but it also brings the latest technology and often includes a comprehensive warranty from the manufacturer. On the other hand, pre-owned equipment requires a much smaller investment up front, making it more accessible to businesses with a smaller budget.
Maintenance Costs
How much are you willing to spend on printing machine maintenance? New equipment tends to require less maintenance in the early stages of its life, potentially leading to lower operating costs. Pre-owned equipment may need more frequent service or repairs, so factor those costs into your investment as you choose a model.
Availability and Delivery Times
As briefly discussed before, new equipment often requires a lead time for manufacturing and delivery; you’ll have to wait a while to get your new machine. Meanwhile, pre-owned equipment doesn’t need to be manufactured. It’s usually available for purchase and delivery right away, which can be advantageous if you need the machine quickly.
The choice between buying new or pre-owned commercial printing equipment rests on the unique needs, budget constraints, and long-term business plans of your organization. By evaluating the factors discussed in this guide, you can choose an option that’s most beneficial to your company.
