Three Essential Tips For Buying Used Gantry Cranes
Finding quality used gantry cranes for sale can be a difficult task; even if you manage to find a low priced machine it could cost you just as much as a new one in the long run due to repairs and maintenance. However, it is possible to find the perfect model for you at a price you can afford when you are aware of just three simple steps that will be covered in this article.
The first tip for buying used gantry cranes is to know both the lifting capacity that you need as well as the duty cycle. The duty cycle is an important but often overlooked factor that is basically a measurement of how hard the machine may be used. Even when you run a machine like this at its maximum safe capacity this cannot be done on a constant basis or it will break down. It is estimated that you can save about $20,000 a year in maintenance and repairs by simply choosing a machine that offers the right duty cycle for your application.
The second important tip for buying used gantry cranes is to get a comparison from the dealer in writing. Different manufacturers offer different ways of rating their machines, so in order to truly compare and contrast one model from another is to get an official comparison. The duty cycle itself goes by several different ratings, including H, M, and A.
Finally, tip number three is to get proposals from several different companies before settling on just one. Buying used gantry cranes is a lot like buying a used car or a crane hoist as there are many dealers out there who are interested in doing business with you. However, they are also interested in making a profit and if they have to twist the truth or hide things from you in order to make a sale they probably will. The difference however is that you have a lot more money on the line when purchasing construction equipment. If a company you are considering does not do everything they can to be helpful and knowledgeable, simply move on to the next.
Buying used gantry cranes is a lot easier when you do the necessary research ahead of time, and this includes knowing your duty cycle, getting written comparisons, and going to several different dealerships for proposals. Also, before even setting foot in a dealership, make sure that you know everything there is to know about the specific model you are looking for, including the frame type, lifting capacity, etc. You must know whether you need a portable crane, or one that is stationary which can be moved quickly from job to job. Finally, do you need an automatic model or will a manual one be sufficient of the applications you require of it?
