The price of a CNC router depends on the type of model you need: an industrial, mid range, or hobby model. Industrial models can cost over $100,000, while hobby models can cost less than $4,000. Here, our focus is on industrial models, which represent the largest cost savings opportunity when purchased used. If you need a CNC router, below are tips for choosing one that offers the cost effectiveness, dependability, and projected longevity you need. These tips are also valuable for purchasing other used woodworking machines.
Determine your production needs
Before you shop for used CNC machines, determine your production needs for the type of woodwork the router will perform. If your production rate is increasing, buying a model whose capacity exceeds your current needs is only sensible. If your production rate is consistent, however, buying a model whose capacity meets and not exceeds it offers the best value.
Only buy from a professional seller
Amateurs who are unfamiliar with woodworking technology frequently sell used woodworking machinery. For example, it isn’t uncommon for a machine to be bought at an auction and resold without having inspections or maintenance performed. Buying these machines is a gamble, especially when they cost thousands of dollars, and are critical to your operation.
The best way to avoid amateur sellers is to buy from a company that specializes in used woodworking machines. At RT Machines, reconditioning and reselling used woodworking machines has been one of our specialties for over a decade.
Examine a seller’s reputation
Used CNC machines are complex woodworking machines that require careful examination prior to resale. Therefore, approaching a seller as you would other businesses—checking its reputation at the Better Business Bureau (BBB)—is the best protocol. If a seller has a high letter rating, and a history of resolving customer complaints, you can feel confident about buying from them. For added confidence, you could request references for customers that purchased a machine within the last year.
Request a copy of a router’s maintenance record
Nothing predicts the longevity of a woodworking machine more than its maintenance record. If a CNC router has a spotless maintenance record, you can take it as a sign that its computer and motors are in dependable condition. CNC routers that have a spotty or non-existent record should be avoided at all costs.
Perform a firsthand inspection
Inspecting a router firsthand ensures its condition is the same as indicated by its photos. If you are buying online and cannot travel to the destination of the seller, having a trusted third party perform the inspection is the best option.
RT Machine has experience you can trust
At RT Machine, we know that used CNC routers are a critical purchase for many woodworking operations. That is why we offer routers that have been thoroughly inspected and priced according to their dependability, projected longevity, and routing performance. If you need a used CNC router, or a different used woodworking machine, do not buy from amateurs. Call the professionals at RT Machine today.
