September 8th, 2019
Purchasing used restaurant equipment is a great way to cut down on the initial upfront costs of starting your restaurant. The challenge, however, is to know exactly what you are looking for. If you’re unsure or don’t know what to look for, you may just end up with an expensive purchase that doesn’t serve your needs.
Here are five tips that you should take into consideration before purchasing used restaurant equipment in Aurora:
1. Prioritize Your Purchase
You can prioritize your purchase based on the ‘type’ of equipment, or how often the equipment will actually be used. For example, for a pizzeria, a pizza oven is highly important. Therefore, as the owner, you may decide to buy a specific ‘type’ of pizza oven. Alternatively, a 24/7 all-night diner may prefer to purchase a new griddle based on how extensively they’ll be needing to use it.
2. Check Equipment Condition
This may sound like a no-brainer, but it is vital to examine the condition of the equipment before you purchase it, no matter how tempting the price. Not all used restaurant equipment is equal. Some pieces may have been used less frequently, while others may have changed hands multiple times. When unsure, it might actually be better to spend a few extra dollars on a newer model or a branded piece of equipment that may even still have the warranty left on it, rather than spending money on a risky piece of equipment at a bargain price.
3. Buy Branded
Buying branded equipment is usually a safe bet, and it helps to ensure that the equipment will last a long time. Imagine a scenario where you buy non-branded equipment at a lower price, but it fails to last you more than a couple of months. In this case, the investment will be a waste, and you will need to immediately buy other equipment to keep your restaurant functional. Moreover, it may also be difficult to find replacement parts for a non-branded piece of equipment — so buying branded is always wise.
4. Check for Warranties
Another important factor to consider is the availability of warranties and parts for the kitchen equipment. Is the model still in production by the manufacturer? Are vital spare parts still available in the market? As a thumb rule, we recommend looking for simpler equipment that does not have complicated parts, and one that has not seen much use.
5. Research History
Check the history of the kitchen equipment to ensure that you are purchasing equipment that will last. When was it manufactured? How many owners has it had in the past? Was the unit regularly serviced? Did it have any problems in its operation? Based on the type of equipment, you should be able to gauge if it is going to serve you efficiently, or if it is close to retirement.
Also, it is advisable to view the equipment in person before making a purchase. This will allow you to inspect it for any signs of damage. If possible, you can also take a trial test run to check if it is functioning properly. Once you’re completely satisfied, you should move forward with your purchase.
Looking for Used Restaurant Equipment in Aurora, Illinois?
If you’re on the lookout for used restaurant equipment, and if you need it in Aurora, we here at March Quality are the people to see.
For over 30 years, we’ve been providing a place for current businesses to sell equipment, and at the same time, offering a very viable and efficient secondary market for those entering the industry or already in the industry.
We buy used equipment and refurbish it until it’s like new, then sell it for a fraction of the price of new equipment.
Contact us today to discuss your needs!