Used vs. New Food Processing Equipment: Pros and Cons


Did you know that buying used food equipment can cut costs by up to 70% while still delivering great results? Choosing between new and used equipment is a decision that impacts your budget, production timeline, and the reliability of your operations. In this post, we’ll help you decide which option works best for your business.


Food processing equipment is essential for producing, packaging, and handling food across industries such as baking, dairy, meat, and beverages. The right machines help businesses improve efficiency, meet safety standards, and scale their operations smoothly.


Companies like Steep Hill Equipment are leaders in the used food equipment market, offering great deals without compromising on quality and reliability.


The Case for Used or Refurbished Food Equipment


Advantages


  • Significant cost savings:  One of the biggest advantages of buying used food processing equipment is the potential to save a substantial amount of money. Used machines typically cost between 30 to 70 percent less than their brand-new counterparts. These lower upfront costs mean you can invest more in other important areas of your business, such as marketing, staffing, or facility upgrades.


  • Shorter lead times: Many used machines are available immediately, helping you avoid long waits.


  • Reliable quality: When purchased from trusted dealers like Steep Hill, refurbished equipment undergoes thorough inspections to ensure performance.


Disadvantages


  • Limited manufacturer warranty.


  • Older models may lack the latest features.


  • Finding exact matches for specialized needs can be difficult.


The Case for New Food Processing Equipment


Advantages


  • Latest technology and features: Some businesses require the newest models to keep up with evolving technology.


  • Customization options: New equipment can be tailored to your specific needs, though Steep Hill is happy to assist with finding customized solutions using refurbished machines.


  • Compliance with regulations: New machines often meet the latest industry standards and regulations, reducing risk.


Disadvantages


  • High upfront costs: New machines are expensive and can be difficult for smaller or growing businesses to afford.


  • Longer wait times for delivery: Custom or imported equipment can take weeks or months to arrive, potentially delaying production.


  • Fast loss of value: New equipment depreciates quickly within the first few years, meaning resale value drops significantly.



Common Myths About Used Equipment


“Used means low quality” – Refurbished equipment can meet or even exceed industry standards.


“It’s risky” – Buying from trusted businesses with transparent inspections reduces this risk significantly.


“It won’t last long” – Many industrial machines are built to last for decades. When properly maintained and refurbished by trusted dealers like Steep Hill, used equipment can perform just as reliably as new.


Contact Us


Making the right choice between used and new food processing equipment depends on your business’s unique needs and goals. If you want affordable, reliable machines backed by expert support, Steep Hill Equipment is here to help. Contact us today to find the best fit for your operation!


Canada - (604) 425-2002


United States - (405) 310-7562