Thanks to innovation, new technologies, and updated policies and regulations, the farming industry has dramatically changed in the past few decades. Farming risks and labor costs have been significantly reduced and, as a result, an increase in productivity. Nowadays, it is not surprising to see tools and equipment like truck scales on almost every farm.
If you are looking to venture into large-scale farming, you are going to need heavy machinery. However, with the many options out there, it’s important to know exactly what to look for. In this read, we are going to look at five important tips to consider when buying farm equipment.
Type of Farming Tools and Equipment Needed
There are hundreds, if not thousands of tools and equipment that can be used on a farm at some point. As such, it’s important to know which ones will be the most beneficial for your application and invest in them accordingly. So, determine whether you require a certain tool for a specific task or a more versatile one for an array of tasks would be more beneficial.
It’s also vital to consider your farm’s size while picking tools. For example, if you own a large field, it makes sense to invest in a furrow plow and rotating plow to maximize harvesting. However, if you are looking at a smaller farm, one item will suffice.
If you want to put up fencing, you will need items like wire, hammers, nails, poles, attachments, etc.
Create a Budget
Before you go out on a shopping spree, it is important to set up a budget for the tools and equipment. This helps ensure you make the right choices without going beyond what you can afford. As mentioned above, farm tools and equipment come in a wide array, and they differ in prices. More often than not, items in the middle offer a good balance between longevity and cost.
Create a budget that’s based on the value of the tools to you, how often you intend to use them, and how long you wish to use them. If you’ll be using a tool once or twice a year, going for the expensive option won’t make much sense. However, if you are looking at a tractor that might be used all year round, then it needs to be a priority on your budget.
Compare the Available Options
Buying the first product you come across is not recommended. Compare a wide array of types of models of the same category, like those needed for weighing, so that you ascertain you’re getting the best deal. More often than not, additional features in farming tools and equipment increase the price, and so, you’ll want to look at all features available and determine those that you need.
Check the Local Regulation
Some farming implements call for training in order to handle them in a safe manner. As such, you’ll need to check with local regulations for handling tractors, particularly when driving them on the road.
Different regions have different regulations and so, check with the local city council regarding all possible platforms and seek agriculture-related advice. Special training and certification are not required in most areas, but it is important to check to avoid being on the bad side of the law.
New Vs. Used
When it comes to buying farming tools and equipment, you can go for either new or used. The advantages of getting new machinery include tax considerations as well as new tech, which translates to increased efficiency and productivity. In addition, it is easy to get financing for new machinery.
On the contrary, it makes sense to get second-hand industrial equipment if you wish to maintain control over certain operations, but buying new equipment isn’t economically viable. If you are starting a new farming venture, it makes sense to get used tools and equipment as you’re not sure whether it will take off, thus reducing risk.
