Finding the right lab equipment can be challenging.There are a lot of makes, models, and lab equipment vendors to choose from. You can also choose to buy either new or used lab equipment. Below are factors you should consider when deciding if you should buy new or used lab equipment:

1.    Availability

When looking to shop for the lab supplies, consider their availability. Where will you get them from, are they in stock, and when will they be delivered? Is the product still on the market, or can you only access it as a used item? If it is a rare piece that you can only find in an auction, how do you purchase it? Auctions give you access to a wide range of lab equipment and parts; find more information here.

2.    Usage

Consider the situation and criteria where you will use it and how often. If the equipment is used daily, its performance and reliability will be of utmost importance. Take into account the equipment’s usage, whether new or used equipment will meet that, and shop accordingly.

3.    Price

When shopping for lab supplies, the price is one of the biggest factors. A lab manager will need to find high-quality supplies at an affordable price, be they new or used. In most cases, used equipment is offered at a price lower than a new one. Consider its economic sense as well; see how much it will cost you in its lifetime, not just how low its price is.

4.    Rate of depreciation

Most lab equipment depreciates in its first years of use. See the depreciation rate and let it guide you. Some equipment depreciates faster in its first years of service. Consider if you would accept absorbing the cost and buying new, or would you rather have someone else absorbing the higher depreciation costs and go for what is already used?

5.    Warranties and service contracts

Warranties give you confidence that you can use the equipment for a given period without worrying about repair works should it not work as expected. It is the manufacturer’s way of affirming that the product will perform with efficiency. Should anything contrary happen, they will cover you with the repair or replacement costs.

Not all used supplies have expired warranties or are without service contract add-ons, and not all new products have them. Read the warranty and service contracts well, so you are sure you are getting exactly what was promised by the sales representative with the lab supplies purchase.

6.    Associated costs

Before making the purchase decision, research widely on its associated costs. This means finding out what consumables the equipment will need, how much that will cost you, and where you will find them. Research on the cost and availability of its replacement parts so you don’t end up with a piece of expensive equipment that you cannot afford to use after some time due to the cost of its consumables or repair works.

Endnote

Purchasing lab supplies is a crucial decision. Whether you choose to go for new or used equipment, do your due diligence and go with the choice that offers high reliability.