Good Reasons to Buy a Used Machine

Why a used machine is often the better choice

In many industries, whether in metalworking, construction, agriculture, or manufacturing, companies regularly face a crucial decision: Should I invest in a new machine or opt for a used one?
At first glance, "new" often seems automatically "better." However, a closer look reveals that in many cases, a used machine is the more economically and strategically sensible choice, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises.

1. Used machine tools offer significantly lower investment costs

Used machines often cost 30 to 70 percent less than comparable new machines, depending on age, condition, and manufacturer. The capital saved can be redirected into other vital areas of the company, such as employee training, workshop equipment, inventory, or even a second machine. Detailed calculations are essential here; while the latest generation may produce slightly faster or more accurately, if your precision requirements are not at the absolute limit, a used machine is often the more economical choice.

2. Used machines are immediately available

As a distributor of both new and used machine tools, we know both sides of the coin. A new investment is meant to be perfect, configured down to the last detail. When times are good and order books are full, manufacturers face immense demand – which often leads to disillusionment for the customer: lead times of 6, 12, or even 24 months. A lot can happen in that time. In contrast, used machines at GS Werkzeugmaschinen are usually available immediately. For you, this means no long waiting periods and rapid operational readiness, even for short-notice projects.

3. Do used machines function properly? How we guarantee quality

This is a question that cannot be answered with a simple "yes" or "no" across the board, and this is exactly where we want to stand out by being closer to the customer. Most people who have searched for or bought a used machine know the drill: You meet a sales representative you've never seen before and drive together to a facility with ongoing production. There stands the desired machine, still set up, perhaps even still producing. In a few lucky cases, you get to test the machine yourself or ask the former operator questions. But once the decision to buy is made, the buyer often has no idea what happens to the machine until it arrives at their facility. Is production continuing? Is a crash occurred during the final days?
At G+S Werkzeugmaschinen, we take a completely different approach. First, we conduct an on-site inspection as described above. If purchased, the machine is then dismantled, loaded, and transported to our site by our own highly experienced assembly team, which moves machines across Europe week after week. Once the machine arrives at our facility, it is thoroughly cleaned and subjected to functional tests. If any abnormalities are found, we dig deeper with geometry and kinematic protocols, always supervised by the respective project manager. This project manager is your dedicated point of contact. You can extensively test the machine under power at our facility at any time (by appointment), with your project manager providing expert advice. If discrepancies were discovered during inspections, we discuss them openly with you. Our long-standing network of service providers and partners from all sub-sectors allows us to carry out repairs quickly if necessary. Should you decide to purchase, the machine remains untouched in our climate-controlled hall until it is shipped to you.

4. Can I still sell the used machine if I no longer need it?

It's a familiar story from the automotive industry: a new car suffers its greatest loss in value in year one, often up to 40%. Machine tools are no different. After that, the depreciation curve flattens out, and with careful handling, an economical resale is absolutely possible years later. Well-known brands with a secure supply of spare parts, in particular, can often be resold at a good price even after years of use. By the way: G+S Werkzeugmaschinen is also happy to offer a buy-back option. We are always pleased to purchase machines that we already know inside out.

5. Sustainability and resource conservation

Buying used machinery is not only economically sound but also ecologically responsible. Reusing equipment conserves resources, reduces CO₂ emissions, and minimizes energy consumption.

6. Used lathes and milling machines, as well as grinding and sheet metal working machines – a wide selection for every need

In the extensive range of used machinery at G+S Werkzeugmaschinen, you will find a broad selection of brands, models, and configurations. From small Weiler Praktikant lathes and Romi cycle-controlled lathes to complex machines like Tornos automatic lathes, Nakamura multi-spindle machines, or even Pfiffner rotary transfer machines. In milling, we regularly stock everything from small models like Kunzmann WF mills and Fanuc machining centers to high-end 5-axis standards like the DMG MORI DMU 80 eVo or Hermle C42, as well as oversized bed or gantry milling machines. We also carry models that are no longer in production. We offer common control systems from Siemens, Heidenhain, and Fanuc, but more exotic control variants also regularly find their way into our inventory. Get an overview for yourself; here is our:

• Range of used lathes
• Used milling machines and machining centers
• Immediately available grinding machines
• Machines for sheet metal working or non-cutting manufacturing
• And all other machines not listed above
• Alternatively, you can download our stock list as a PDF: Stock list

7. Ideal for short-term or one-off projects

For time-limited assignments or specific projects, buying a new machine often doesn't pay off. A used machine fulfills the purpose without high fixed costs and with optimal cost-effectiveness.

Conclusion: Buying used pays off – especially with GS Werkzeugmaschinen

Of course, there are scenarios where a new machine makes sense. But in many cases, a used machine is the clever, economical, and sustainable choice. If you are looking for reliability, fast availability, and favorable investment costs, you should take a look at our current offers now.

Click here for our currently available used machines