Buying used lab equipment is not limited to those who run poorly funded high school labs. Investigators in established research or industry labs and academic facilities should also examine the secondary equipment market. Along with the potential financial benefits, there are other advantages to buying used lab equipment: minimizing landfill fodder, helping others get money for their unwanted items, saving on equipment upgrades, and even helping a charity. Furthermore, many sources of used lab equipment can ship rapidly-often faster than standard channels that send new equipment.
Reaping the financial benefits of buying second-hand requires homework. With scrutiny, the risks are manageable, and the effort expended can result in a transaction that is agreeable to all parties. For those ready to make the leap, the array of alternatives for making second-hand purchases is staggering. A large number of used equipment sources offer all manner of services, products, and warranties. What follows ...
