It’s a big decision to invest in new print production assets, especially when it comes to the high costs associated with some hybrid printing technology. So it’s worth asking whether purchasing used machinery offers a practical path to expansion without the hefty capital expenditure of brand-new technology. Spoiler alert – buying used can be a good strategic decision, yes. However, to deliver the required performance and value, a used machine must be well maintained and capable of either upgrades or integration with newer technologies as they emerge.
Print machinery is engineered to last, with some flexographic printing presses capable of running for decades without so much as a dust down. Indeed, Focus still offers service and support for equipment over 30 years old. However, many presses face obsolescence long before their mechanical use by date, so it’s sensible to have your eyes open when navigating the second-hand market. Here are four important dos and don’ts to be aware of.
Do: Thoroughly Inspect The Equipment
It might appear obvious, but a thorough inspection of the asset is the most critical part of making a sound choice. Don’t rely solely on photos or the seller’s description, and always arrange to see the machine in operation, whether in person or through an online medium such as Zoom. Pay close attention to any signs of wear and tear, listen out for unusual noises, and ask to see recent label printing samples to check for quality issues such as streaking or poor registration. This is especially important for complex systems like those using hybrid printing technology, which frequently combine multiple processes into a single asset. Check that all components – digital and flexo units, die cutters, and finishing – are functioning correctly. Care and attention to detail at the inspection stage will prevent you from inheriting another business’s problems.
Don’t: Overlook The Service History
A printing machine’s service history tells a story, so always ask the seller for a detailed service and maintenance log. This record will show you how well the previous business cared for their asset and whether it received regular professional attention. A press with a consistent maintenance history from a reputable technician is a much safer investment than one with patchy or non-existent records. The absence of a comprehensive service log is a serious red flag, and could indicate underlying issues that could undermine the value of your purchase.
Do: Verify The Availability Of Parts And Support
Technology moves fairly quickly in the print sector, with the result that older models can become difficult (or expensive) to service once they are out of warranty. Before finalising a purchase, therefore, research the availability and price of spare parts and technical support for that specific model. Check with the original manufacturer, if possible, or a third party supplier to ensure you won’t be left stranded if an important component fails. This is vital for any label printing operation, as extended downtime waiting for a rare part can derail your production schedule and violate client commitments.
Don’t: Ignore The Total Lifetime Cost Of Ownership
As with a new asset, the initial purchase price is just one part of the equation when buying used. It’s important to calculate the total cost of ownership to understand the true financial impact on your business. This includes transportation, import duties, installation, training, commissioning fees and ongoing repairs and servicing. You should also factor in the potential cost of upgrades and any necessary software to accommodate the machine in your facility. A seemingly good deal on a used digital inkjet printing press, for instance, can quickly become expensive if it requires significant additional investment to get it running efficiently.
What Next?
If you are uncertain about the value of a used printing press, reconsider the option of purchasing new. New printing presses have the advantage of being optimised for today’s technology and are often easier to retrofit with emerging tech than older models. Furthermore, with affordable credit available for many models, businesses can spread the cost of a new machine without it impacting their day-to-day cash flow. To find out more about our range of hybrid printing technology and market leading flexographic presses, please contact Focus Label today by clicking here.
Image source - Canva
