Purchasing Used Vending Machines -- How To Pick A Good One
Everyone in the vending business is agreed -- cost control, particularly on equipment purchases, is absolutely critical. This is why many owners of vending machine businesses endeavor to purchase used vending machines in good condition. A new vending machine can cost anywhere from $2000-$4000 or more, depending on the model and size. And the higher equipment purchase price means that it will take you longer -- in some cases much longer -- to recoup your purchase investment through actual food sales. For many vending machine businesses, purchasing brand-new machines is simply out of the question, except for a few high-profit, high-volume locations.
Purchasing used vending machines is a lot like buying a used automobile -- you need to take a good look before it leaves the dealer, or else you might get stuck with a lemon! Let me briefly describe some things you need to check out before you purchase any type of used vending machine --
Just as with a used car, when you are looking at used vending machines, don't be misled by outward appearances. A machine that looks good is important, sure -- as an enticement to the consumer. But it is also important that a used vending machine operates properly -- and to evaluate this you are going to need to be able to get inside of the unit.
So ask the dealer or present owner to open up the machine so that you can take a look inside. Take a look at the racks and interior walls -- look for signs of rust, corrosion or damage. Also take a look at the inside wiring -- is in good condition? Are all interior lighting units in good working order? Do doors close securely?
Now close up the used vending machine and attempt to make a purchase -- put in some coins as well as some folding money. You might even want to bring along some bent coins and worn out dollar bills to see how tolerant your used vending machine is of these types of items. Be wary if the coin or folding money mechanism jam -- for me, that's an immediate deal breaker. A used vending machine with a troublesome coin/bill module is not going to make you any money.
In addition to noting how the money is handled, you should also make note of how the inner mechanism operates -- does it function smoothly and deliver the requested product reliably? Or does it seem to operate in a jerky manner, straining as if something was holding it back? Again, a used vending machine with an unreliable delivery mechanism is to be avoided at all costs.
Once you have examined the interior of the used vending machine, and verified that its electrical and mechanical systems operate properly and smoothly, it's time to take a good look at the outside. Used vending machines typically have their outside fixed up in one of two ways -- either the original paint has been sanded off and replaced with a new coating, or various types of panels have been installed on top of the old surface -- in some cases plastic or vinyl.
Finally, keep in mind that the outward appearance of the used vending machine is more important in some circumstances than in others -- for example, if a used vending machine will be located in a warehouse or manufacturing facility, it may not need to present the appearance of being brand-new. On the other hand, if you will be placing a used vending machine in a shopping mall or corporate employee lounge, the appearance of your used vending machine will be much more important.
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