When it comes to selecting reels for your business, you may want to consider whether to buy new or refurbished reels. Both have their advantages, but they also come with certain trade-offs. This article will explore the pros and cons of each to help you determine which type best suits your needs.
Understanding Refurbished Reels
Refurbished reels are previously used reels that have been restored for reuse. This restoration process typically involves tasks like tightening bolts, replacing any damaged boards or staves, and ensuring the reel is fit for another round of service. While the vast majority of recycled reels are nailed wood (2-ply flange), refurbished plywood reels may be available as well. Following the refurbishment process, these reels are fully capable of performing their intended function.
Pros of Recycled Reels
- Cost Savings: Recycled reels are typically cheaper than new ones. For businesses looking to manage costs effectively, this can be a significant advantage. You’ll see the largest cost savings on the larger reel sizes.
- Quick Availability: Recycled reels can often be more readily available than new. The refurbishment process is typically faster than manufacturing from scratch, which can be crucial when you need reels on short notice.
- Environmental Benefits: By choosing recycled reels, you contribute to sustainability efforts by keeping materials out of landfills and in circulation. This not only reduces waste but also helps preserve natural resources.
Cons of Recycled Reels
- Potential Branding Issues: Recycled reels may still carry logos or markings from their previous users, which might not align with your company’s image. These markings may be able to be removed or painted over on request.
- Visible Wear: Due to their prior use, recycled reels may exhibit signs of wear, such as scuffs or oxidation on metal parts, which could impact their appearance. Wood color varies; while many refurbished reels maintain a bright, nearly new look, some may have a greyed or discolored appearance. Note this does not compromise the structural integrity or performance of the reel.
- Varied Sizing: Recycled reels are categorized by flange diameter, so drum sizes may fluctuate. While you would normally specify each dimension when ordering new reels (i.e. 36X24X16), when ordering refurbished reels you would simply order 36” reels. This variance in uniformity might pose a problem if precise measurements are required for your products.
Recycled reels offer a practical, eco-friendly option when exact sizing is less critical.
New Reels:?
On the other hand, new reels offer a different set of benefits and considerations.
Pros of New Reels
- Fastest Availability: Many common reel sizes are kept in stock, allowing for immediate fulfillment in most cases. This can be a major advantage when timing is critical.?
- Precision and Predictability: With new reels, you can count on exact dimensions and a new appearance, which can be important for maintaining a professional image and ensuring operational consistency.
- Size and Material Options: New reels can be made with lighter duty materials such as plywood flanges or fiber (cardboard) drums. In fact, many of our standard stock sizes fall into this category. These smaller and lighter duty reels can be a significant cost savings even over nailed wood refurbished reels of a similar size.
Cons of New Reels
- Higher Costs: A potential drawback of new reels is their higher price compared to recycled options. This could be worth considering if you’re working within a tight budget.
- Longer Lead Times for Custom Orders: While standard sizes are often available right away, custom sizes or large orders may take longer to manufacture and deliver, which could be a downside if you need reels quickly.
- Longer Lead Times for Large Reels: For projects requiring reels with a flange diameter greater than 48 inches, note that these will need to be custom-manufactured, which may result in a longer production and delivery timeline.
New reels are particularly well-suited for manufacturers who require specific sizes and pristine conditions. They’re also the best option for any customer who uses plywood reels, as most refurbished reels have nailed wood flanges.
Conclusion
The choice between new and recycled reels ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you’re looking for a cost-effective, eco-friendly option and can work with markings and potential signs of use, recycled reels are a great choice. However, if you need reels that are made to exact specifications, are pristine and unmarked, or require lighter duty reels with plywood flanges or fiber drums, new reels are the better option. By carefully considering the pros and cons, you can make the best decision for your business needs.
