In the laboratory industry, there can be a lot of pressure to always have the newest and latest technology. Due to concerns about having outdated or inefficient equipment, many professionals don’t even consider purchasing used equipment. However, there are numerous advantages to doing so. Here are some of the key benefits of purchasing used lab equipment to keep in mind next time you need to purchase equipment.
Financial Benefits
One of the most significant and obvious benefits of purchasing used lab equipment is that doing so can save you a lot of money. Used laboratory equipment is significantly less expensive than brand new models. Often laboratories can save up to 50 percent or more by purchasing quality second-hand equipment.
Because laboratory equipment is often one of the top expenses that laboratories incur, purchasing used can substantially reduce laboratory costs and free up some much-needed room in tight budgets.
Environmental Benefits
Large laboratory equipment can take up a lot of room in landfills and often contain toxic components such as lead or mercury. Such toxins can seep into the earth and contaminate groundwater over time. By purchasing used laboratory equipment rather than new, you can reduce the amount of equipment that ends up in landfills. Plus, you will also reduce the number of raw materials used to manufacture new equipment which will decrease your lab’s negative impact on the environment.
Increased Insight
Purchasing a new type of equipment right after it is released comes with some risks. When a piece of equipment is fresh on the market, there aren’t many reviews from past customers attesting to how well or poorly it operates.\
Used equipment, however, is far less risky. Because the equipment has been on the market for a while, there are likely plenty of reviews that you can reference and any potential issues have likely been well-documented. Just make sure to purchase from a reliable and trustworthy reseller that took the proper measures to ensure the equipment is in optimal operating condition.
Reduced Wait Time
If you need a piece of equipment in a short period of time, buying used is often the best option. Many manufacturers have long wait times that can require you to wait for several weeks or even months before the equipment will arrive. If you have deadlines you need to meet, that simply won’t do. In cases when you need equipment in a timelier manner, used equipment is already built and ready to go so you often only have to wait for shipping.
Source: Christina Duron is a freelance writer for multiple online publications where she can showcase her affinity for all things digital. She has focused her career around digital marketing and writes to explore topics that spark her interest.
