gricultural scene, it’s not uncommon to find farmers making savvy financial decisions by choosing second-hand equipment. Recent statistics reveal that in Europe, a staggering 2 out of 3 agricultural machines are now purchased second hand. This shift can be attributed to various factors, including the rising costs of new machinery and the increasing awareness of the longevity and reliability of well-maintained used equipment. According to Robbert, co-owner of Duijndam Machines, these are the most important factors for the shift towards opting second hand:
1. Cost-Effective Choice
In the dynamic realm of agriculture and horticulture, where profit margins are closely monitored, the financial aspect plays a pivotal role in decision-making. Opting for second-hand agricultural machines proves to be a cost-effective choice for farmers and horticulturists alike. The initial investment is significantly lower compared to purchasing brand-new equipment, allowing for more efficient allocation of resources and a quicker return on investment.
2. Immediate Availability vs. Lengthy Delivery Times
In the world of cutting-edge agricultural technology, many advanced new machines come with extended delivery times. For farmers who cannot afford to wait for the latest machinery due to pressing seasonal demands, second-hand equipment becomes an attractive alternative. The immediate availability of used machines allows farmers to meet their operational needs promptly, ensuring they remain agile and adaptable to the fast-paced nature of their industry.
3. Versatility for Crop Rotation
For farmers and horticulturists engaged in frequent crop rotation, the flexibility offered by second-hand machines is a key advantage. Different crops often require specialized equipment, and investing in a brand-new machine for each crop can be financially burdensome. By opting for second-hand machinery, farmers can adapt their equipment to varying needs without breaking the bank, making it a pragmatic choice for those engaged in diverse cultivation practices.
4. Environmental Sustainability in Agriculture
As the world becomes increasingly conscious of environmental sustainability, the agricultural sector is no exception. Purchasing second-hand machines aligns with the principles of eco-friendly practices. Extending the lifespan of agricultural equipment reduces the demand for new manufacturing processes, conserving energy and raw materials. By choosing second-hand, farmers actively contribute to reducing their ecological footprint, promoting a more sustainable and environmentally conscious approach to agriculture and horticulture.
A Digital Boom: Online Platforms and Marketplaces for Agri- and Horticultural Machines
The digital era has played a pivotal role in reshaping the agricultural machinery market. The advent of numerous online platforms and marketplaces has made it easier for farmers to connect with sellers and explore a wide range of options. The COVID-19 pandemic has further accelerated this trend, as farmers seek convenient and contactless ways to acquire the equipment they need. Online platforms provide a virtual marketplace, enabling farmers to compare prices, specifications, and reviews with ease.
Where previously only the stock of the local second hand seller was at your disposal, farmers now practically have the whole world as their marketplace. This increase in availability has made opting for second hand machinery more feasible. However, the increase and buying from distance also comes with its risks. Many marketplaces are only a delivery man, they just put online the ads that horticulturists and farmers send them, without ever seeing the machine. This increases the risk for the buyer that the machines are not in the condition they thought they were.
It is therefore important that you get a complete image about the machine before you proceed to purchase, also when buying from a distance. Video Calls, images and videos provide a great alternative. Also choosing for a dealer like Duijndam Machines, that not only functions as a marketplace, but that buys all them machines themselves, reduces the risk of a bad buy.
Duijndam Machines: A Specialist in Second-Hand Agri- and Horticultural Machines
Among the plethora of online marketplaces, Duijndam Machines stands out as a specialized dealer dedicated to the sale of second-hand agri- and horticultural machines. Unlike regular marketplaces that merely facilitate transactions between buyers and sellers, Duijndam Machines distinguishes itself by being a specialist with an extensive inventory.
They have a strict purchasing policy so that they can guarantee that all the machines you buy are good to use for the years to come. Also, since they used to be horticulturists themselves, they can also advise buyers intensively on which machines best suit their customers’ specific needs.
