Many processors have entered the used shredder market believing they found a bargain, purchasing large and seemingly capable equipment, only to face component failures after installation that ultimately raise long-term costs by hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Much of the risk comes from the age and origins of the equipment. Many shredders were produced by manufacturers that have since gone out of business or were custom-built units with little to no documentation or ongoing support. When replacement parts are required, the absence of original drawings or specifications means they often must be reverse engineered.
Even “reconditioned” shredders often only have superficial cosmetic work, typically a repaint and partial testing. The internal state of the machine remains unknown and wear or damage in major components like knife sets, bearings, and shafts often goes unnoticed until the machine fails during operation.
These failures are common and can be costly, leaving buyers with long-term expenses far beyond the initial purchase price.
“While the appeal of seemingly lower cost, used shredders continues to draw buyers, the true costs of bringing these machines into working condition can exceed six figures,” says John Neuens, Industrial Consultant for Milwaukee, WI-based BCA Industries, an established developer and manufacturer of industrial shredding and recycling equipment for a variety of industries.
First-time buyers are more likely to underestimate the severity of repair requirements and the long lead times involved. Attempts to rebuild equipment in-house or through non-specialist channels can further inflate part costs and lead to poor performance. Any downtime adds further expense.
According to Neuens, purchasing new equipment offers the greatest assurance of long-term functionality. However, when new is not an option, a machine rebuilt by the original manufacturer offers a level of reliability and technical backing that the general used shredder market cannot match.
Since purchasing used shredders can pose significant financial and operational risks, new machines from established manufacturers may be the better choice. While the initial price of a used shredder may appear attractive, hidden costs related to repair, replacement parts, and extended downtime can quickly escalate total ownership expenses. When accounting for these risks, new equipment does not necessarily have to cost more than used.
A new machine from a reputable manufacturer offers greater reliability, access to technical support, and the latest design enhancements that help minimize downtime. The benefits to productivity and the bottom line will be realized for years to come.
For more information: call 414-353-1002; fax 414-353-1003; email john@bca-industries.com; visit http://www.bca-industries.com; or write to BCA Industries, 7036 N Teutonia Ave., Milwaukee, WI 53209.