A buyer decides in a few seconds whether to look closer at a machine. A clear title, honest details and good photos make the difference between a listing that gets enquiries and one that does not. This guide covers what to include when you list a machine.
The title
Start with the make and the model, then the type of machine. Buyers search for these words, so do not add extra wording such as “bargain” or “must go”. On MachineFinder the title is built from the make and model you enter, so the model box only needs the model.
The details buyers look for
- Year of manufacture and the hours or mileage, with the date the reading was taken.
- Condition. Describe it as it is, including marks, repairs and anything that does not work. Honest wear is accepted, but a problem that is found at the viewing and not mentioned loses the sale. The law also expects a machine to match its description, in a private sale as well as a business one.
- What is included, such as attachments, tooling, keys, manuals and spare parts.
- Specification, such as capacity, size, power supply (single-phase or three-phase) and any other figures from the data plate.
- Paperwork, such as the service history, any thorough examination report and the original invoice.
- Why you are selling and where the machine is, so the buyer can judge the distance and the collection.
The photos
- Take the photos in daylight, with the machine clean and the area around it tidy.
- Take the whole machine from the front and from each side first, then close-ups.
- Photograph the data plate or serial number, the controls and display, the hours meter, and any wear or damage.
- Show the attachments and tooling that are included.
- Choose the main photo carefully. It is the picture in the search results. A clear photo of the whole machine works best.
The price
Look at what similar machines are asking, and at the age and condition. Read the guide to pricing a used machine and avoiding scams. A price that is a little above the figure you would accept leaves room to negotiate. Say if the price is firm.
Answering enquiries
- Reply quickly. Buyers often contact several sellers and go with the first useful answer.
- Answer questions plainly and send extra photos or a short video if asked.
- Be wary of anyone who offers to buy without seeing the machine, asks you to pay for shipping first, or sends a cheque or overpayment. Read the guide on avoiding scams.
- When the machine is sold, mark the listing as sold so that buyers do not keep enquiring.
Summary: a good listing
A clear title, an honest description with the year, hours and what is included, good photos with a strong main photo, a fair price and quick replies. Then list your machine free, or read the guide to how to sell used machinery.
Used machinery for sale
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