
What are CNC machines?
CNC stands for ‘computer numerical control,’ and CNC machines are defined as computer-driven machine tools that produce a part out of materials such as metals in various shapes and sizes. CNC machines of today can cut or move materials as programmed on the controller. The type of cutting varies from plasma to laser cutting, milling, routing and lathes. These machines can even scan and sort items on an assembly line.
Why purchase a used CNC machine?
CNC machines indeed can remarkably boost your workshop’s productivity, efficiency and output quality. However, as any business owner, it is risky to heavily invest in overhead costs without the knowledge of when or if your workshop will complete enough orders to cover the operating expenses.
In addition, even before purchasing a new one, some business owners resort to buying a used CNC machine first, to check its viability and should this purchase give them not just satisfactory but also impeccable results, there’s no doubt that purchasing a new machine’s going to be the next step.
With the above underlying conditions, instead of investing significantly on a new machine, business owners tend to trial used CNC machines first as a way to save money, provided that the machines are in good condition and are regularly maintained. But how do we ensure if we are making the right purchase?
What factors to check before purchasing a used CNC machine?
Even before purchasing a used CNC machine, it is important to keep in mind the following factors to consider to avoid any issues when checking and/or reviewing used CNC machines from a trusted machine tool broker. Here at USM, we have positioned ourselves as a global leader supplying solutions for the steel and construction industry. Our specialised services will help you optimise and automate your processes while reducing your operating costs.
With the above underlying conditions, instead of investing significantly on a new machine, business owners tend to trial used CNC machines first as a way to save money, provided that the machines are in good condition and are regularly maintained. But how do we ensure if we are making the right purchase?
#1: AGE OF THE MACHINE
Why do we need to know about the age of the machine we are buying? It is crucial to understand how old the machine is for the purpose of warranty coverage and availability of consumables and parts.
#2: CONDITION OF THE MACHINE
Proper machine inspection is a must when purchasing a used CNC machine. This will indicate if there are excessive wear-and-tear, maintenance requirements, refurbishment and any other things to consider to understand the actual condition of the machine. In this way, this will give you an idea if this machine can still perform the work output that you wanted to achieve for your workshop.
In addition, this will help you meticulously compare the information presented by your preferred machine tool broker to what the actual condition is; thus, knowing whether you are dealing with a trusted machine tool broker.
#3: MAINTENANCE RECORDS
Even before purchasing a used CNC machine, you should ensure that it has been regularly maintained. Ask your preferred machine tool broker of the following questions:
- How frequently has the machine been cleaned and maintained?
- Any repair concerns that have been resolved?
- Is there proof of services performed?
- Is the machine capable of being upgraded?
- Availability of replacement and/or upgradable consumables and parts?
It is also a best practice to bring with you a maintenance worker or service technician to conduct physical inspection of the used CNC machine to have a better understanding of the condition and the maintenance records provided by your preferred machine tool broker.
#4: UPGRADES AND/OR REFURBISHMENTS
Should your machine tool broker have upgraded or refurbished some parts of the used CNC machine, you should know about these upgrades and how these will be beneficial to your workshop’s capacity and productivity. This is also beneficial for you to understand should the price be justifiable or appropriate against these refurbishments made.
#5: SERVICE WARRANTIES
Any machine tool broker understands that there may be technical issues or concerns arising from any used CNC Machine that is beyond anyone’s control. That is why it is imperative to secure terms and conditions or service warranties that vary depending on your preferred machine tool broker.
#6: TRUSTED AND RELIABLE MACHINE TOOL BROKER
Make your decision an intelligent and profitable investment with Used Structural Machinery. If you are looking for pre-owned machinery opportunities, USM is your best option in the market. Buy with the security and quality that distinguishes us. Contact our sales team today!
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About Used Structural Machinery
With more than 15 years of experience providing solutions for the steel and construction industry, at USM we have positioned ourselves as a worldwide benchmark company in the purchase and marketing of pre-owned machinery.
Likewise, we are made up of a largely technical service team and more than 10,000 m2 of facilities where we supply, install, provide multiple services and supply spare parts and consumables to automated machines throughout the world.

Looking to Buy Used Machinery?
If you are looking for pre-owned machinery opportunities, USM is your best option in the market. Buy with the security and quality that distinguishes us. To learn more, contact us today!
Looking to Sell Used Machinery?
At USM we are your ideal channel to take your equipment and place it in the right hands, with the security and confidence that characterises us.
With the desire to achieve a satisfactory experience, we provide close and professional attention, likewise, we evaluate your machinery to ensure its optimal conditions. You will only sell and USM will take care of the rest!