Figuring out who buys used air compressors can be a challenging task. If you are new to this, you will most likely undersell your compressor and lose hundreds of dollars in the deal.
There are several ways to sell your air compressor, including auctions, private markets, and equipment brokers. Each of these routes has its pros and cons. For instance, the price you get in a private market mainly depends on your presentation and negotiation skills. Additionally, there may be some fees to pay in the process. The same applies to equipment brokers, which usually charge a fixed rate or take a percentage of the sale.
In this article, we will detail everything you need to know about who buys used air compressors, including the most popular websites on the market.
What do you need to know before selling your air compressor?
Estimate the value of your air compressor
Going blind into the market can cost you hundreds of dollars. Initially, you need to research the price of similar air compressors in order to estimate how much your compressor is worth.
Some key factors to consider include:
Type and brand of the compressor – Air compressors come in all shapes and forms. Whether your machine is intended for home use or industrial settings is extremely important. Moreover, the brand of the compressor plays a significant role. For instance, some brands are known to produce air compressors with impressively long shelf lives.
Learn about the most popular air compressor brands by clicking here.
State of the compressor – This is the most influential factor in determining the sale price of your compressor. If your air compressor is in a mint state, expect to get a great price. However, a dysfunctional compressor that requires a lot of work to repair wouldn’t get you as much.
Age of the compressor – This one is straightforward. A 2-year-old air compressor wouldn’t sell for the same price as a 10-year-old compressor.
Characteristics of the compressor – If your air compressor is still functioning, don’t forget to mention its characteristics, including CFM, PSI, and tank size.
Weight of the compressor – For a completely dysfunctional air compressor, consider how much it weighs. Typically, a broker who buys used compressors may offer you $0.25 per pound.
Figure out your potential buyers
Review some platforms where you can sell your used air compressor, including auctions (e.g., eBay), private sales (e.g., Facebook Marketplace), and equipment brokers.
Ideally, you would opt for a platform where interested users are present to avoid scammers. Moreover, pay attention to fees, commissions, and listing costs.
Below, we will list the most credible platforms where you can sell your used air compressor.
Take advantage of tax breaks
This step mainly applies to U.S. citizens or those with a US-based business.
If you want to benefit from the Link-Kind Exchange (i.e., 1030 exchange), you should exchange your old compressor with a similar asset. This will defer current tax liability from selling your used air compressor.
Consider refurbishing your air compressor
Refurbishing an old air compressor can increase the value of your machine dramatically.
This can be done through simple steps, such as:
- Replacing faulty valves, pressure gauges, and lines
- Cleaning the compressor
- Painting the outer surface of the compressor
- Changing the oil, filters, and coolant
- Adding a belt guard for extra protection
- Installing a new air hose
These steps might cost you $100-$200; however, they will make you hundreds of dollars in gains when selling your compressor.
Who buys used air compressors?
Private markets
Private markets are excellent platforms that connect you directly to potential customers and business owners who buy used air compressors. This can be done through classified ads, online marketplaces, or direct negotiations.
Pros of private markets – Private sales often allow for more personalized negotiations, providing you with better offers. You can also avoid paying commissions to intermediaries.
Cons of private markets – Finding buyers and ensuring a smooth, secure transaction process can be more challenging.
Examples of private market platforms:
- Craigslist
- Facebook Marketplace
Auctions
An auction is another great way for people interested in buying used air compressors. You can conduct an auction online or in person, where multiple buyers bid on the compressor until the highest bid wins.
Pros of auctions – Auctions create competition among buyers, potentially leading to higher selling prices. They are also transparent and can accelerate the sale.
Cons of auctions – Unfortunately, you have less control over the final price. What’s more, there may be fees associated with listing the used compressor.
Examples of auction platforms:
Equipment brokers
Equipment brokers are intermediaries who facilitate the sale of used equipment, connecting you to a customer who buys used air compressors. They often have industry expertise and networks to match sellers with buyers.
Pros of equipment brokers – Brokers can handle the entire sales process, including marketing, negotiations, and paperwork. They can also provide valuation expertise.
Cons of equipment brokers – Brokers typically charge a commission for their services, which can reduce your profit. Also, finding a reputable broker is important.
Examples of equipment broker platforms:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about who buys used air compressors
1. Can you sell a used compressor?
It’s possible to sell a used air compressor and get a great deal, depending on its state and characteristics. You can either sell the compressor yourself or hire a professional broker to conduct the transaction.
We recommend that you do your research in depth before going into the market. Otherwise, you risk underselling the compressor.
2. Are old compressors worth anything?
Old, dysfunctional air compressors may not be sold based on the functionality of the machine. Instead, you would get an average of $0.25 per pound by selling it to recyclers. The most valuable materials in an old air compressor are copper and aluminium.
Note: Make sure your air compressor is completely unsalvageable before selling it this way.
3. How much does an average compressor sell for?
The price of a used air compressor varies significantly based on numerous factors (e.g., brand, age, state). With that said, aim to charge an average of $110 per horsepower. For instance, a 5-hp air compressor in a good state would probably sell for $500 to $600.
Determining which end of the price you settle on mainly depends on your negotiation skills.
4. Is it good to buy a used compressor?
If you find yourself in a situation where you need to buy a used air compressor, don’t rush the transaction. You first need to thoroughly evaluate the state, characteristics, and price of the compressor. If you find any of these parameters to be sketchy, be cautious.
For those who can afford to buy a new compressor, this is a better choice.
Takeaway message
Selling your air compressor can make you a few hundred bucks or help you exchange it for a newer model to benefit from tax breaks. Consider refurbishing your old compressor to increase its value.
We hope that this article managed to highlight who buys used air compressors, including the factors to consider before selling your old machine.
If you have any questions about how to sell a used air compressor, please feel free to share your thoughts in the comment section below. You can also contact us by clicking here.
