How to Hunt for Farm Equipment
Whether you own a small hobby farm or are starting an urban backyard farm, you'll need the right equipment to maximize your efficiency. Farm equipment can be expensive, and you may find it confusing to determine your needs if you're new to farming. There are good deals to be had on both new and used equipment, but determining what you really need before you shop will save you time and money. When you're ready to hunt for farm equipment, there are many ways to go about it. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Prioritize your list into two categories: what you need immediately and what can wait. If you have extra money, you can purchase things that aren't urgent, but if you don't prioritize, you could end up short.
-
2
Check with other farmers in your community first. Someone who's in the same circle as you is unlikely to sell you a bad piece of equipment because it could ruin his reputation in the community. While you'll want to test any used equipment thoroughly, you can feel more secure when shopping in your region.
-
-
3
Review classified ads on Web sites such as Webfarmer or Ironsearch. Ironsearch also allows you to look up the value of any farm equipment through blue book prices, making it a trusted aid in your farm equipment search. Contact any sellers whose inventory interests you.
-
4
Attend any farm auctions coming up in your area. Auctions vary in the type and condition of equipment they sell. You'll get a good picture of the range or items and equipment conditions that are available. Some industry experts warn against purchasing equipment at auctions but attending auctions can be valuable for the exposure you'll get to farm equipment.
-
5
Place your own classified ad on farm equipment sites if you are having trouble locating the equipment you need. With any calls you receive, ask the following questions:
How old is the equipment?
Why is it up for sale?
Does it have an owner's manual?
Can you take it for a test run?Don't buy any piece of equipment that the previous owner will not let you test.
-
6
Look for farm auctions, farms going bankrupt or farm equipment dealers in your area. Call these people to find out if they have any of the equipment you need; if so, make an appointment to visit.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Older equipment can be less reliable, so always check the blue book value.
