August 8th, 2019
If you are starting a restaurant in Skokie, buying used equipment is a great way to minimize your upfront business expenses. However, you should still be mindful with what you buy, or you might end up with a piece that you regret purchasing down the line.
Regardless of what kind of used restaurant equipment you are shopping for, here are a few things to keep in mind before making your purchase:
1. Look for Modern Used Equipment
The idea is not to immediately jump for the lowest priced model that you find is functional and that meets your needs. Often times, there are a lot more perks associated if you opt for a newer model. Newer models are sometimes sold by restaurants going out of business, or if they are updating their equipment. When purchasing a newer used model, you might spend a little more, but in exchange, you’ll get better safety and other features that you might not find with older equipment.
2. Research Brand Names
Certain brand names are often an indicator of quality. Most brands build higher quality products than generic companies and provide a better manufacturer’s warranty as well. It is recommended that you do so some independent research to find brand names you can trust when you are shopping for used restaurant equipment.
3. Check Condition
It is important to try out the kitchen equipment to ensure that it is functional as per your requirements. If this is not an option, make sure that you are purchasing the equipment from a trusted dealer, and make sure the equipment is being sold with a warranty.
4. Check for Availability of Parts
When buying used restaurant equipment, you also take the risk that something could go wrong with the equipment down the road. In order to be prepared for such a situation, you may want to do some research regarding the year and make of the model, whether it is still in production by the manufacturer, and whether or not you can easily find replacement parts if necessary.
5. Check for Warranties
It is vital to check for warranties of used restaurant equipment, as this ensures that servicing and replacements will be available should anything go wrong with the equipment. Often, even scratches and dents are covered by warranty.
6. Prioritize Used Restaurant Equipment Purchases
Since you will likely be purchasing more than one piece of restaurant equipment, it is important to understand which pieces of equipment you are willing to purchase new and which ones you are willing to purchase used. This decision is primarily based on 3 factors:
- Importance – The most important equipment is generally bought new. For example, A pizzeria might buy a brand-new pizza oven.
- Number of pieces purchased – If a greater number of the same equipment needs to be purchased, an owner might decide to purchase a blend of new and used equipment.
- Usage – A decision for new or used equipment could be made based on the amount of usage. A 24/7 diner might opt to buy a new fryer, while a small restaurant that’s only open for lunch might decide to buy a used fryer instead.
Looking for Used Restaurant Equipment in Skokie, Illinois?
If you’re looking for used restaurant equipment, and if you need it in Skokie, 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.
Contact us today to discuss your needs!
