If you're thinking about getting a cardboard baler, one of the first questions you'll probably ask is: "Should I buy used or new?". Both have their benefits and what's right for your workplace depends on your budget, needs and your premises. Here are some key points to consider when looking to acquire a used baler.
Why buy a Used Baler?
Used Balers are seen as the more affordable option for businesses because they usually have a lower upfront cost than a brand new equivalent. Whether new or used, it's important to select a baler for cardboard that suits your needs and budget. A good quality, well-maintained used baler can provide reliable service for 10 years+ so choose with care.
What should I think about before buying used baling equipment?
When you're buying a pre-owned cardboard baler, there are a few things you need to consider:
Warranty - Find out what is included with the warranty and how long it lasts
Delivery and Installation Costs - Check who is responsible for setting up your machine and delivering it to your premises
Insurance - You will need to add it to your company insurance policy
Training - Nobody should use a baler without machine-specific training
Seller Reputation - Take advantage of the peace of mind offered when buying from a supplier with good reviews
Legislation - Check it has the necessary safety certifications
Specification - Check it has the features you need
Should I buy a Service Plan with a Used Baler?
It's strongly recommended. Regular servicing and maintenance ensures your cardboard baler is safe to operate. A comprehensive Service Agreement from a reputable provider will keep your baler in good working order. Check out our dedicate Servicing Page for more information.
What power types are available?
Balers can be powered by electric or compressed air. Choosing the correct match for your workplace keeps energy costs low. QCR offers both types to suit your place of work. Not sure what's the right option for your site? Our team can visit your premises to provide you with bespoke recommendations.
Can I try before I buy?
With QCR the answer is yes! We offer the majority of UK businesses the opportunity to trial a cardboard baler for FREE. This is because we know that buying waste machinery involves the agreement from many different stakeholders within your business and it needs to prove it’s worth! Luckily, we’re confident that any initial reluctance will soon disappear once the space, time and money savings are demonstrated.
Is a Baler supplied with a Manual?
An instruction manual is essential when buying a baler. All QCR’s used cardboard balers are supplied with a comprehensive Operator Instruction Manual detailing the operating instructions, maintenance plans, diagrams and troubleshooting guides for your machine. We also understand that sometimes it’s easier to watch a video so each of our machines has a QR code which links you to an easy-to-understand demonstration video. Prefer to talk to a person? Our office is open from 8:30-5pm Monday-Friday and our team of knowledgeable engineers are based across the UK.
Does it have service history?
A shiny internet bargain could be hiding a series of issues if it has not been properly maintained. All QCR’s used compactors are refurbished to a high standard by our team of trained engineers using high-quality parts to ensure it performs to Health & Safety standards. Our team of Waste Experts can advise you on how to keep it running efficiently and also offer you a bespoke Service Plan for added peace of mind.
If it was to breakdown, are replacement parts still available?
Unlike vehicles, unfortunately there isn’t always an easy way to judge the age of a baler. Some older brands of machine are still on the market but the manufacturer is no longer trading. Luckily, if you are buying a refurbished baler from QCR, we know the history of all our machines from their detailed service records. Our three depots are well stocked with a variety of spares and manned by teams of our own engineers who are highly experienced in all aspects of the hydraulic, pneumatic and electrical engineering of balers. Sometimes we’re also able to fix your issue over the phone. We’ve been trading for over 20 years and even if a particular QCR machine is no longer produced, we’ll find a solution to get it up and running again.
What type of Baler Tape or Baler Wires does it need?
When installing a new baling machine at your premises, it’s important to ensure you are using the correct wires or tape for it to work efficiently. Failure to do so could result in badly tied bales (which will not be accepted by your Waste Collector), a broken machine or even worse an injury to the operator. When purchasing a used machine from QCR, we can advise you the correct grade of baling wires/tape to buy. What’s more, you can easily purchase your consumables direct from our website or over the phone from our team of friendly baler advisors.
Are Reconditioned Balers supplied with a warranty?
All QCR’s refurbished cardboard baling machines are supplied with a comprehensive 6-month warranty (parts & labour included) which isn’t always the case with other suppliers. Having a longer warranty than some other suppliers means with a QCR you are cushioned from any costs associated with unexpected breakdowns (arising from issues not associated with fair wear & tear). We’re happy to provide you with details of what’s included so you can make a fair comparison vs. other suppliers.
Who will collect my baled cardboard?
Our team of Waste Experts can introduce you to our trusted network of local Recyclers to ensure that your cardboard bales are collected regularly and you secure the maximum return for them. This helps our customers get the maximum ROI and fastest possible payback on their initial investment. Or you can choose your own registered waste carrier.
What are the running costs?
When calculating feasibility, you need to consider the running costs of the machine. For example, if you are sourcing a used pneumatic cardboard baler then you will also need to factor in the cost of a compatible compressor if you do not have your own air supply. Our Waste Experts can support you by helping you to calculate the running costs of each type of machine.
How can I make the process of purchasing as stress-free as possible?
If you do decide to purchase a second-hand baling machine our team of nationwide Waste Experts can talk you through all the considerations making sure you get the right baler for your needs at a competitive cost. Free trials of refurbished machines are also available to all UK mainland businesses.
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