How to Find Reliable Suppliers for Used Warehouse Racking
You hear horror stories about buying warehouse racking second-hand. You don’t know how it’s been cared for, how many owners it’s had, and whether there are hidden defects. There can be damaged or missing parts.
Moreover, used warehouse racking might not integrate well with your existing systems. The Rack Manufacturer’s Institute (RMI) warns about incompatibility as a significant issue. Most rack manufacturers use proprietary components. Column shapes, hole-punching patterns, and mating beam end connectors may or may not be interchangeable.
In many ways, it’s like buying a used car. You might get a great deal…or you might be inheriting someone’s else problem.
All of this underscores the importance of working with a reliable supplier. Finding a seller that provides you with complete transparency into condition and pricing can give you the peace of mind that you’re getting a good deal and aren’t compromising safety.
How Do You Find a Quality Used Warehouse Racking Supplier?
There are plenty of places where you can find second-hand warehouse racking online. eBay, Craigslist, and online marketplaces often feature used racks for sale. But anyone can post pictures and descriptions online, and you can’t necessarily trust they are honest and disclose everything.
There are also industrial auctions and salvage companies that sell used equipment. You can find some real bargains, but the quality is typically mixed and history is often lacking.
OK, that’s enough about the potential pitfalls in buying used warehouse racking. Let’s talk about how you can avoid these problems and find quality suppliers.
Check Longevity and Reputation
Suppliers that have been in business for a long time and specialize in warehouse racking systems are likely to be your best bet. If you don’t sell good products, you won’t be in business for long.
Check out a company’s online reputation and ratings, and ask for references from past buyers.
It’s also a good idea to check on the financial stability of the seller, especially if there are any warranties or if you might need additional services in the future. You want to make sure they’ll be around to do so.
Check for Wear and Damage
Pictures help, but an in-person inspection of the equipment for signs of hidden wear or damage is important. Either do it yourself or work with a reliable supplier that will provide you with all the information you need to make a good decision.
Reputable sellers will share the history of the used warehouse racking, be upfront about any flaws or defects, and offer in-person inspections.
Take a Consultative Approach
The best suppliers will take a consultative approach. Rather than just trying to sell you second-hand warehouse racking, they’ll take the time to understand your needs and help you find the right fit. Material handling equipment suppliers that offer planning, design, engineering support, and installation services are more likely to understand the nuances of your industry and flow-through to help you accurately assess your needs.
Price and Selection
Price is always an important factor, and you want to get a good deal. You can often find discounts of up to 50% or more on used warehouse racking, depending on its condition. Finding the right mix of products is sometimes more challenging.
Look for a supplier that does a high volume of transactions. For example, a supplier that specializes in material handling equipment and does liquidations is a better fit than one selling specific equipment or a general industrial supply company. This experience is invaluable and can help you find what you need, making sure it will integrate seamlessly into your warehouse. You’ll also have access to more and different types of racking systems that fit your needs.
Choose Conseco Storage Systems
Conesco Storage Systems has been around since 1986 and is one of the nation’s largest warehouse liquidators. With nearly four decades of experience with all types of material handling equipment, our team of experts and engineers can help you find new or used warehouse racking to fit your operation, and they will guide you through the process from start to finish.
We can also help you with any aspect of your warehouse: planning and design, engineering, permitting, integration, and installation. We stand behind our products and offer affordable pricing and complete transparency.
Offering pallet racking, cantilever racks, wire decking, shelving, conveyors, mezzanines, lifts and machines, pick modules—we can outfit your warehouse with new or used material handling equipment to improve your operation.
Contact Conesco Storage Systems at (303) 690-9591 for a free consultation. We’ll find the high-quality used warehouse racking you need.
