Top Tips for Buying Used Farm Equipment at Auction

Farmer driving small used tractor he bought at auction for soil cultivation.

There are many great reasons to buy used farm equipment from an auction, but there are certain things you need to consider to have a great buying experience. Regardless of the type of equipment you are looking for, there are unspoken rules among auctioneers and bidders. Knowing these things will help you have a smooth bidding experience at the auction site.

Here are a few important things to remember when buying farm equipment at auction!

Assess Overall Appearance

If you plan on buying used machinery, it is crucial to check it for regular maintenance and assess its overall appearance. Look for dents and check if the paint is peeling off. These are good indications that the equipment has been stored outside for longer periods of time. See if the tires are worn by checking their tread and matching it against manufacturer standards.

Check the Engine’s Condition

If the farm equipment you plan to purchase has an engine, always check under the engine compartment. If possible, you can request to have the engine started to look for leaks and listen to find out if it is running smoothly. Also, ensure that it will comply with existing emission standard regulations for the type of engine the farm equipment has. You may also want to check the type of fuel it uses. Going for diesel-powered farm equipment and machinery is a practical choice because it is cheaper than gasoline machinery.

Check for Availability of Maintenance Documents

Before making a bid on a particular item of farm equipment, consider asking the seller or the auctioneer about the availability of maintenance logs and other pertinent documents or if there are any records of previous repairs. These documents can give you a better understanding of the quality of the equipment and the frequency of its repairs. The more you know about what you are buying, the better your chances of buying quality equipment that can last for a long time.

The most important thing you can do at an auction for used farm equipment is to ask questions before purchasing. Bidding at auctions can be a lot of fun, and if you do it right, you can certainly buy good-quality farm equipment at a much cheaper price.  

At Smith & Co Auction & Realty, we host professional in-person and online auctions. When purchasing used farm equipment at our auctions, you can ensure you’re getting your equipment at true market value. 

Call us today at (580)254-3975 to learn how you can purchase or sell used farm equipment in an upcoming auction!