Used equipment for customization businesses, like embroidery machines, digital printers, vinyl cutters, and screen-printing machines CAN be a great way to save money.

That’s why QuipDealio has put together the 7 Rules for Buying Used:

Those who have a customized business need to save money, and used equipment for customization businesses can be one way of doing so. Customization machines provide an affordable option when compared with new models that may not offer all the features you want or need in your work environment

There are many ways to save money when it comes time for customizing your business. One way is by using used equipment, like embroidery machines and digital printers; this can be an excellent option because these items often cost less than their newer counterparts with similar capabilities!

Rule #1 | See it Run

This may not make sense for every used machine you look at, but there’s nothing more useful than a short video watching equipment do its thing! Buying a large automatic screen-printing system, a tunnel dryer, or a DTG Printer – see it run.

Looking for used UV printers or even a small vinyl cutter like a Cricut – see them run. Everyone has a cell phone with video capabilities, so it shouldn’t be a hardship.

Who wants to spend hours looking for used equipment only to find out it doesn’t work? The See It Run Rule ensures you won’t regret your purchase. QuipDealio allows you to view videos that show the equipment running.

You can’t really go wrong with a used machine if you know what to look for. They’re usually very affordable and easy to operate, but there is one exception: the ones that require special training or an experienced person because they are complex in nature! Follow up through QuipDealio’s messaging system, or by phone if the buyer allows it.

Rule #2 | Pay Attention to Shipping

The BEST thing you can do if you’re buying used is to go pick up the machinery yourself. But barring that, you need to protect yourself against shipping damage in advance. You can do this by:

• Requesting pictures of the machine on the inside of the box before it’s closed up
• Ask for pics of the outside of the box before it ships
• Inspect it AS it arrives. If it’s a big box, make sure you are there and examine the packaging. Compare it to the original box photos. Take pictures of the package on arrival.

Custom product equipment can be large and expensive pieces of equipment, so it’s important to pay close attention to shipping costs when buying one.

The machine itself can cost several thousand dollars, and the shipping charges can add a significant amount to the total cost. There are a few different shipping options available, and it’s important to choose the right one for your needs.

If you’re buying a DTG machine from a retailer, they may offer free shipping if you spend a certain amount of money. However, if you’re buying from an online auction site, you’ll need to pay for shipping yourself. It’s important to compare the cost of shipping before you buy to make sure you’re getting the best deal. DTG machines are an investment, so it’s important to do your research before making a purchase.

Rule #3 | Payment Methods are Important

When it comes to custom equipment, there are a lot of factors to consider. Cost is always a major concern, but it’s not the only one. What may be even more important is finding a payment option that meets your needs and budget. For some customers, leasing may be the best way to go.

Leasing custom equipment has a number of advantages. First, it can be a more affordable option than buying outright. Second, it offers flexibility in terms of length of time and payments. And third, it allows you to try out a piece of equipment before committing to buying it.

Of course, leasing isn’t right for everyone. But for those who are looking for an alternative to buying custom equipment outright, it’s definitely worth exploring. So be sure to talk to your equipment dealer about all of your options before making a final decision.

You have no recourse if you pay cash for a used item, but if you pay with a credit card you just might be able to get your money back if there’s something wrong. Check the terms and conditions on the payment method you will use.

How does PayPal or Venmo handle a dispute?

Rule #4 | Talk to the Seller on the Phone

If at all possible, just have a conversation with the seller. You’d be surprised what they may tell you – and you may get a “vibe” that makes you want more info or to look for a different dealio.

Before making any big purchase, it’s always a good idea to consult with the seller. They will be able to answer any questions you have about the product and give you an insider’s perspective on what you can expect. Here are five quick reasons why talking to a seller before you buy is a good idea:

• You’ll get an expert opinion. The seller will be able to tell you everything you need to know about the product, including features, benefits, and any potential drawbacks.
• You’ll be able to negotiate a better price. If you consult with the seller beforehand, they may be more willing to give you a discount.
• You’ll get peace of mind. Buying a big-ticket item can be stressful, but talking to the seller beforehand will help put your mind at ease.
• You can establish a rapport. If you strike up a conversation with the seller, they’ll be more likely to remember you next time you come in – which could lead to even more discounts down the road!
• You might learn something new. The seller might have some information about the product that you didn’t know – and that could be helpful in making your decision.

Rule #5| Talk to a Finance Company

Making payments can often allow you to get a much BETTER piece of used equipment for your budget. It will also free up your cash for business activities that will make you money.

When you’re ready to purchase a new car, it’s important to do your homework and compare your options. One of the most important decisions you’ll need to make is whether to finance or lease your vehicle. There are pros and cons to both options, and the best choice for you will depend on your unique circumstances.

Talking to a finance or lease company before making your decision can help you understand the implications of each option and make the best choice for your needs.

Finance companies offer loans for the purchase of new and used vehicles. This is typically the more expensive option, as you’ll be responsible for the full purchase price of the vehicle plus interest and fees. However, financing gives you the opportunity to build equity in your vehicle, and you’ll eventually own it outright. This can be a good option if you’re planning to keep your car for a long time or if you anticipate needing to sell it in the future.

Leasing is another popular option, particularly for luxury vehicles or those that depreciate quickly. When you lease a car, you’re essentially renting it from the leasing company for a set period of time (usually two or three years). You’ll make monthly payments based on the car’s depreciation,

Rule #6 | Check on Training

You may be an old pro at using a vinyl cutter or a home-style embroidery machine, but the more commercial machines are different.

Don’t let your business crash and burn before it gets built because you were SURE you could figure out how to do something, or use something, from all the YouTube videos you can find.

If you’re buying used commercial machines from a dealer they should offer you training with that.

If you’re buying a decent piece of higher-end equipment, like a laser engraver or DTG printer, for example, the person you’re buying it from might be talked into showing you how to use it.

Either way, it’s important you think about how you’re going to learn this thing before you buy it.

Rule #7 | Who’s Your Technical Support

Something WILL break. One day, you’ll be in the middle of a project, maybe even your first one and something will happen to that big beautiful piece of equipment you invested in. And then it’s Ghostbusters:  “Who are you gonna call?”

The seller may or may not be willing to help for a while. Or they may have sold it because they never figured out how to make it work right either.

You might ASSUME that because the machine is pretty new that you can just call the manufacturer and get free support. That, in many cases, is a No.

There are even some great buys on great equipment out there where the manufacturer is no longer in business! So it might be a terrific embroidery machine, but there’s literally no one to call when you have an issue.

That’s not to say you shouldn’t BUY that equipment, you just have to have your eyes open and a plan in place when you do.