New or Second hand VLM

Cons and Pros or What to check

Assume you already figured out how much floor space save and productivity you can expect from putting a vertical lift module (VLM) in your facility. So if the numbers look good, you may think why not save some extra cash and buy used instead of new? “New or second market?” is a completely valid—and smart—question. As for used machine is often half the price of a new one and there is the supply on the market.

In certain cases buying a used system may be the right choice. But before you commit, here’s a checklist of tips to keep in mind when considering a used VLM.

1. Frequency of use to be considered

For sporadic to moderate usage across a couple of shifts, a used vertical carousel or VLM may be perfectly fine.?The machine’s components may already have some mileage on them, but those usage patterns will not create excessive additional wear.

For operations running three shifts, seven days a week a new machine machine should be recommended, as all components will be in peak condition and unlikely to fail.

2. Used VLMs condition investigation

A new system usually comes with some kind of guarantee and a sense of security. Buying a used one, however, requires due diligence and greater risk tolerance.

For example, when looking at two different used machines, do not assume that the one with a later date of manufacture is in the best condition. Instead, ask the salesperson about the use cases, operating environment, and service methods.?

As if machine that has been used at the upper limits of its maximum load capacity and / or has been operating at or above the rated duty cycle of the engines is likely to have more worn components than a low-utilized machine. Find out what was stored in the used machine and how often these items were accessed during the assessment.

Operating the machine in extreme temperatures or conditions can cause faster component wear. Ask about the type of property that used the used machine and its geographic location.

If a used machine has been serviced according to a regular maintenance and repair schedule, it is more likely to function than expected. Request a copy of all service records.

3. Original documentation to be requested

When you purchase a new VLM, the equipment has been manufactured to meet your specific needs in terms of both loads and frequency of use. This may not be the case with a used machine.

Ask the seller for copies of all the original documentation associated with the unit, or to put you in contact with the previous owner. Further, ask for the serial number. With it, you can reach out to the representative of manufacturer to request information such as the original dates of manufacture and installation, as well as possibly a service history report.

4. Independent inspection to be done

Just because a used vertical carousel or VLM looks clean and possibly sports a new paint job doesn’t mean it will work. The best way to determine the unit’s actual operating condition is with a third-party inspection. As you would with a used car, hire an authorized independent inspector of that equipment to determine it's condition.?This—along with the original documentation—can help to determine if the machine will function how you need it to.

5. Used VLM configurations revision

Buying a new machine guarantees that it will be set-up and constructed exactly how you need it.?Trays will have load capacity and sub-divided to match your mix of products. Buying a used machine means inheriting the previous owner’s sub-dividing, as well as their load capacity limitations.

While most dividers and bins can be re-arranged with a little effort, some systems have fixed components or ones that are missing and expensive to replace (or to reconfigure). If you have to replace every bin within the system to store your inventory, that cost alone could offset the savings of buying a used machine.

Further, correspondence of the measurements of the machine and its individual components—and its electrical specifications—with your facility’s access doors and power supply. Some machines may be too large to fit through your dock opening or in your intended area of use. Others may require a different voltage than your building can support.

6. Safe operations verification

New machines feature the latest safety features to keep an operator safe while working with the machine. Older models may not meet the latest CE and ISO standards for proper ergonomics, or lack the safety protections commonly found in new equipment. Also, confirm that a used machine still has all of its original safety devices, and that they still function as intended. Likewise, warning labels and usage placards should still be in place

Otherwise, when you move machine and install it at the new facility, it should correspond to the current year safety and certifications requirements. May be necessary to run the new certification at the place as the old one may not work after disassembly.?

7. Service and support providers determination

A distributor or manufacturer often offers a scheduled service and maintenance package when purchasing new equipment. They also usually include installation, warranty and technical support for a specified period of time after commissioning.

For a used VLM, manufacturer support may or may not be available. Alternatively, the reseller may offer you a package of services or recommend a third party for setup assistance, technical support, programming, training, and ongoing maintenance. Make sure this data is locked before buying a used one.

Also inquire about the availability of spare parts. This may require a phone call to the original manufacturer of the device. If a component breaks and cannot be replaced, your second-hand savings will fly out the window.

8. The VLM compatibility with your other systems

The latest VLMs are equipped with the latest software and hardware systems. These include system controls and connection interfaces. A used machine may not be able to integrate with other technologies on site if your facility is similarly equipped. At best, a lot of technical know-how is required to get the job done.

Therefore if your job is mostly manual, with little or no automation, a used machine might just work. Consider having the system integrator determine how compatible the used machine is with your facility's specifications.

9. Determine your target delivery times

Since new often means assembly to order, it can take weeks to design, manufacture and deliver your new machine. Even with due diligence, getting a used machine locally and operating it usually takes less time than installing a new one. So, if you needed it yesterday - and you checked all the other boxes - by all means, consider it used. However, if you can wait to get a perfectly tuned device, then new ones are best.