The Pitfalls of Buying Used Dental Equipment for Sale by Owner

Used dental equipment for sale is plentiful thanks to sites such as eBay, dental blogs, Facebook, and other used equipment websites. But before you buy, you should be aware of the many hidden costs for both buyer and seller in a transaction of this type.

Hidden Costs to the Seller

Removal – Not just anyone can (or should) remove X-ray machines. Most states require that service providers are pre-approved and registered with the state to perform X-ray services, including removal of used dental equipment for sale. X-rays are very fragile devices and the components are very expensive. Some digital sensors can cost $30,000 or more to replace! And you can’t just take X-ray machines off the wall and lay them on the floor. Some X-ray machines come with special devices to keep the overhead and other components steady and protected during removal. Because they are so heavy, most X-ray machines require at least two people to remove them. For this reason, labor alone can be very costly.

Transportation – Your plan for transporting the used dental equipment for sale to be transported is of vital importance. Check to see if the X-ray vendor is available to transport or if you need to search for other options. Given the complexity and fragility of the X-ray machine, traditional movers and transport companies are not usually equipped to move medical devices. You may also need to consider renting a vehicle on your own. Don’t forget to prepare for the added expense of lift gate and inside delivery charges.

Crating & Packaging – There is nothing more important than properly crating and packaging used dental equipment for sale for transport, either across town or across the country. Ideally you would use a manufacturer’s approved carton and packaging. But, if none are available, you need to use a crater and packer that is familiar with X-ray machines and their components to ensure safe delivery. The crate must be built with exact specifications to secure and stabilize the unit for delivery. Most crating companies are not capable of properly crating and packaging used dental equipment for sale.

Storage – If your used dental equipment for sale is not yet sold at the time of removal, it must be stored in a climate-controlled, damp-free environment. Take time to consider all of the transport costs to and from the storage facility, as well.

Insurance – Before you begin a sale, check to make sure you have the adequate insurance to cover all persons and facilities involved with removing your used dental equipment for sale. This includes your office, the building, the parking lot, the transport vehicle, the crating facility, the storage facility, and more.

Marketing & Selling – Placing used dental equipment for sale can be very time consuming. You will need to field many phone calls and inquiries about the equipment. This will include knowing all the details that a potential buyer may need to know such as initial cost, year of manufacture, model, exposure count, weight, dimensions, shipping price and other equipment-related details.

Payment – Before you accept an offer, be sure to work out the details of the transaction and put it in writing. Ensure the buyer will pay you in full upon delivery. Depending on how they are financing the purchase, check that they are approved. Be clear about when it’s acceptable to back out of the agreement and when it’s not.

Project Management – Think about who will be involved during the entire process. You may need to rely on team members to manage the sale, removal, crating, and shipping of the used dental equipment. Doing so would limit their available time to helping patients and growing your practice.

Hidden Costs to the Buyer

Quality – Ensuring you’re receiving a high-quality unit is a major factor when purchasing used dental equipment. You must ensure that it’s in proper working order, that it was professionally tested and all electrical outputs checked, that the images were reviewed by a professional or practitioner for diagnostic quality, and that the machine has been properly serviced throughout its lifetime.

Preparation – Before the machine arrives at your office, you must prepare the space you intend to install it. Make sure you know where to install the power or network outlets and what type of power is required. You’ll also need to know about orienting the X-ray and where the controls will be. Double check that patients can easily navigate around the X-ray, especially those in wheelchairs. Make sure you’ve covered all state requirements including shielding plans, distance from X-ray beam and state approvals.

Software – You may be required to purchase new software if the machine model or brand you’re buying is different from what you already have. You can also check to see if the licensing will be transferred from the previous owner and all costs involved. Sometimes re-licensing an X-ray machine can be very costly.

PC & Network – You may need outside help to guide you through setting up the PC and network. Often, used dental equipment runs on older operating systems and/or software or firmware versions. Determine what is compatible for your used X-ray and then ensure the PC and network are properly set up and maintained.

Installation – Most states require X-ray installers to be registered with the state so you will need to make sure you hire one of these approved providers. They must also complete and submit paperwork to the state and FDA confirming the details of the installation of the used dental equipment for sale.

Payment – Consider how you will pay for the unit. Your bank or financial institution may provide a loan but only if purchased through verifiable sources.

Training – Once the unit is installed, you’ll need a professional to train your team on how to properly position patients, capture images, and store and manage them.

Ongoing Support – It may not be possible to contact the manufacturer or previous owner if you have questions or need support in case of issues with your machine.

Missing Parts – It may seem like a small thing but missing parts can be costly. For example, imaging phantoms and other tools required for CBCT calibrations can cost thousands of dollars to replace.

Replacement Parts – Check to see if the manufacturer is able to provide replacements parts for service, especially if you are purchasing an older unit.

Project Management – Installing new dental equipment can take time. You’ll also need to be considerate of receiving state approvals and shielding plans. Know what to do if you need to go without an X-ray for an extended period of time.

Selling or Buying with Renew Digital

With a reputable used dental equipment vendor like Renew Digital, you don't have to worry about the small details when buying used dental equipment for sale. If you are selling an X-ray to us, we provide full payment at time of pick up as long as it’s in perfect working order. We take care of the shipping, crating, and storage. If you are buying an X-ray from us, we provide convenient payment options, help you prepare the environment, provide compatible PCs and software (where applicable), ship, install, train your staff, and provide ongoing support with our comprehensive onsite service and replacement parts warranty. All at up to 50% off the cost of new equipment. Skip the hassles. Contact Renew Digital to learn more.