Where to sell
- Private sale: the most money, the most work. You handle the listing, the buyers and the paperwork.
- Dealer trade or sale: the least work, usually the lowest price, but fast and simple.
- Auction: good for a fast sale and true market price, minus the auction's fee.
- Consignment: a dealer sells it for you for a cut, a middle ground between private and trade.
Price it from real sales
Do not guess, and do not price off a wishful number. Look at what comparable machines actually sold for, adjusted for year, hours and condition. Pricing to the real market sells faster and avoids leaving money on the table. Use the value estimator to start.
Prepare the machine and the paperwork
- Clean it, fix small issues, and have it ready to demonstrate under load.
- Gather service records, the manufacturer statement of origin or title, and a clear ownership trail.
- If there is still a lien on it, know your payoff so the sale can clear it.
- Take honest, well-lit photos, including the hour meter and the serial plate.
Protect yourself from buyer scams
Sellers get targeted too: overpayment scams, fake certified checks, and buyers who want to arrange their own shady shipping. Confirm funds have truly cleared before you release the machine, and be wary of any buyer who overpays or rushes you. Our scams guide covers the patterns.
Know what a machine sold for? Add the sale. Real sales make pricing more accurate for every buyer and seller, and it is free.
Check a machine before you buy
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Frequently asked
What is the best way to sell used heavy equipment?
A private sale usually brings the most money but the most work. A dealer trade is fastest and simplest but pays less. Auctions give a fast, true market price minus a fee. Price it from real comparable sales whatever route you choose.
How do I price my equipment to sell?
Look at what comparable machines actually sold for, adjusted for year, hours and condition, rather than a wishful number. Pricing to the real market sells faster.
How do sellers get scammed on equipment?
Common ones are overpayment scams, fake certified checks, and buyers arranging suspicious shipping. Confirm funds have truly cleared before releasing the machine, and be wary of anyone who overpays or rushes you.