It may hardly be a matter of surprise if a larger number of business owners opt for used equipment and reconditioned machines in order to keep their printing firms running smoothly as the economic downturn continues. While new equipment may be preferable to some, reliable used equipment can often get the same job done and can be employed for years if maintained well.

Used-Equipment

Printers must make sure they know what they require from the equipment before they buy it, and what the long-term as well as short-term uses of the machine will be. In other words, the machine should help the company grow over the long term.

When a printer is in the market for used equipment he should be aware of the many types of pre-owned machines available. For example, the machine should be tested to see if it runs well and that it has not required repair previously.

A few tips that must be kept in mind when buying used equipment, and the service and support needed for it to run smoothly include knowing the right machine for the job; finding a knowledgeable dealer so that the appropriate equipment can be acquired; working with a dealer who provides after service support, such as phone support or training; and the resale value of the equipment.

Although labour costs are a large issue for printers today, they can be reduced significantly by investing in highly efficient machines. With regard to the maintenance and service of used equipment, training and support from the dealer is necessary. Printing companies that have a shortage or no maintenance staff should focus on training operators to fix machines.

Preventative maintenance is crucial to the life of used equipment; in this regard, it would be advantageous to have a stock of reusable parts and know-how of the tools needed for the maintenance.

In this issue, ME Printer finds out from leading dealers of used equipment, in the UAE and across the Middle East, about the scope for growth of the industry for remarketed machines.

People who shared their view with ME Printer in this report:

Well Maintained Used Machines Work As Effectively As New Ones

KSA - Islamic Arabian Press - Naji Al Hamad

Easy Availability of Remarketed Machines Fuels Sales

Egypt - Yasso Company - Eng. Mohammed Yasso

Prospects of Investing in Used Equipment Brighten
YEMEN - Al Nebras Company for Trade & Agencies - Gamal Al Hakimi