Should I Buy Used Equipment for My Landscaping Business?

May. 2 2025 Miscellaneous By Kennadi Harris

The success of your landscaping business largely depends on the equipment in your fleet. Buying shiny, new equipment to complete landscaping jobs may sound like the most attractive option, but depending on the scale and needs of your operation, sometimes buying used equipment is the better choice. Let’s look into the pros and cons of purchasing used equipment for your landscaping business and who can benefit from pre-owned equipment the most.

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Pros of Buying Used

Cost Savings

The primary driver of buying used equipment is the upfront cost savings. Used equipment is less valued than new equipment, making it significantly cheaper than newer models. The savings you earn early on could be great for newer businesses and start-ups with lower budgets, needing equipment to help get their business up and running.

Lower Depreciation

One of the biggest cons of purchasing new equipment is the deep dip in value over the first few years. With used equipment, you will experience lower depreciation over time, allowing you to hold on to a good amount of your investment if you decide to sell. This can be a wise choice for businesses that only need equipment for a finite period.

Wider Selection and Availability

There’s no need to play the waiting game that comes with acquiring new equipment when you decide to buy used. You can browse online listings with hundreds of makes and models available immediately. The broader selection gives you the freedom to choose equipment that satisfies all your needs, and once you find what you’re looking for, you can make a deal quickly and get your equipment when you need it (sometimes in just a couple of hours!).

Faster ROI

Before making any major purchases for your landscaping business, you should always consider your return on investment. More often than not, buying used equipment gives you a greater ROI due to the lower upfront costs, making it easier to start seeing profits faster. On the other hand, splurging on new equipment can put you in debt, making it harder to climb out of the hole and start seeing cash flow.

Cons of Buying Used

Shorter Lifespan

Although used equipment can last years if properly maintained, you shouldn’t expect it to last a lifetime. The more hours your equipment takes on, the shorter its lifespan will be— and if you plan on using your mower, tractor, or any other equipment frequently, its life will diminish even quicker.

Potential Repairs

Buying used equipment can be more risky in some cases, because the previous ownership might have put some wear and tear on the equipment. It’s good to check maintenance records and thoroughly inspect used equipment before buying to avoid buying something that will cost you more than it’s worth. However, even used equipment in good condition can be subject to repairs down the line.

Limited Warranty and Support

Another potential downside to buying used equipment is the lack of warranty and support after purchase. With new equipment, you can often get financial incentives for repairs and service for a limited amount of time from either the manufacturer or the dealership. However, sometimes with used equipment,  repairs and service costs may have to come out of your pocket.

When Should I Buy Used Equipment for My Landscaping Business?

  • You have a lower budget: If you need equipment now but have a limited amount of cash flow, buying used equipment can give you the machines you need for your business at a lower cost.
  • You are just starting out: Used equipment might be a better option for new businesses that need a starting fleet, without many bells and whistles, to get their business off the ground.
  • You only need the equipment temporarily: Used equipment isn’t the best option for a long-term investment, but it can provide the muscle you need to complete seasonal or short-term projects, allowing you to sell without losing much investment once projects are completed.

Where is the best place to buy used landscaping equipment?

When looking for reliable used equipment, the source is everything. Certified equipment dealers are the most reliable option for used equipment. With a certified dealer such as American Implement, you get quality assurance. Each piece of equipment is thoroughly inspected before listing, so you won’t have to worry about hidden mechanical issues that will cost you later. We also offer financing options tailored to your budget, so you can spread out payments on higher-cost equipment, enabling you to start seeing cash flow sooner. Plus, a trusted dealer like American Implement provides customers with a network of ongoing support after purchase, providing service, parts, and expert guidance.

If you’re in the Kansas or Colorado areas and need reliable used equipment to kickstart your landscaping business, check out our online inventory today. Don’t hesitate to contact your nearest dealer for additional information or insights.

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