For a startup company that will need to have in-house packaging systems, the cost of planning the system and purchasing the new machines can be a big part of the budget.
This causes new company managers and owners without prior experience in the production and packaging industries to make some very common mistakes. Often these mistakes are related to focus on cutting costs with the packaging equipment.
Buying Used Equipment
There is no doubt that buying used packaging equipment offers a much lower cost option than buying new. At least this is true if you are just looking at the sticker price. What you will not see with the used equipment is a warranty, customer support or customer assistance to select the best equipment and to help in engineering the most efficient line.
Used equipment may literally be on its last few cycles. If you don’t have experience in knowing what to look for that low-cost purchase may end up costing you a fortune in parts and downtime.
Buying Equipment on Price Alone
There are different quality manufacturers selling into the American market. Some are top of the line while others are offering incredibly cheap products that look great but simply aren’t built to last.
The best manufacturers will be competitive in their pricing. Remember, these are complex machines with mechanical, electronic and computerized systems, so they are not a cheap item to produce unless corners are cut.
Not Researching the Manufacturer
One of the easiest things to do when considering any packaging equipment is to get online and research the manufacturer. Look for the length of time in business, their areas of specialization and for feedback from past businesses as to the quality, durability, and reliability of the equipment they offer.
