Used vs New Farm Equipment – What’s Right for You?

Running a productive and profitable farm often comes down to having the right tools at the right time. From ploughs and balers to tractors and sprayers, your farm equipment is a serious investment — and choosing between used vs new farm equipment can be a tough decision.

Each option has its pros and cons. Depending on your farm size, crop cycles, and budget, one might serve you better than the other. In this article, we break down everything you need to know when comparing new vs used farm implements so you can make the most informed choice.

🚜 Why the Equipment Choice Matters

Farm implements are not just tools — they are the backbone of modern agriculture. Efficient, reliable machinery can save time, reduce labor, and boost yields.

But whether you’re upgrading your fleet or starting out on a budget, the used vs new farm equipment debate plays a critical role in:

Cash flow and upfront capital
Downtime and repair risks
Longevity and warranty coverage
Tech advantages and resale value

Let’s explore each option in detail.

✅ Pros of Buying New Farm Implements

1. Manufacturer Warranty & Support

New machinery typically comes with a 1–3 year manufacturer’s warranty, giving peace of mind. You also get access to training, technical support, and official service centers.

This is especially valuable for complex equipment like:

Planters with GPS precision
Combine harvesters with smart sensors
Tractors with electronic fuel injection systems

2. Latest Technology & Efficiency

New implements often include advanced features like:

Fuel-saving engines
Auto-steering systems
Variable rate application for fertilizers or sprays
Better operator comfort and safety

These features can improve productivity and reduce long-term running costs.

3. Fewer Repairs, Less Downtime

Breakdowns during planting or harvest can cost thousands. With new equipment, you reduce the risk of mechanical failures — especially in critical periods.

4. Financing & Tax Benefits

South African farmers can often access agricultural equipment financing or government-supported schemes for new equipment, including:

Absa AgriFinance
Land Bank loans
SARS tax deductions (Section 11(e)) for depreciation

❌ Cons of Buying New

1. High Upfront Cost

New implements are significantly more expensive — often double or triple the price of used equivalents.

Example:

New 2-row planter: ±R180,000
Used equivalent: ±R60,000

This can tie up capital that could be used for inputs, land expansion, or livestock.

2. Depreciation

Like cars, new farm machinery depreciates quickly in the first 2–3 years. If you plan to upgrade frequently, this could mean losing value when reselling.

✅ Pros of Buying Used Farm Implements

1. Lower Purchase Price

This is the biggest benefit. Used equipment is often 40–70% cheaper than new. For smaller farms or part-time farmers, this means you can afford more implements without needing a loan.

2. Faster ROI (Return on Investment)

Because the initial cost is lower, it’s easier to recover your investment through increased productivity or savings.

3. Access to Proven Models

Many older tools and machines are simpler, easier to repair, and have a long history of reliability. Mechanics often know them well, and parts can be sourced affordably.

Examples:

Massey Ferguson 290 or 135
Older John Deere ploughs
Conventional disc harrows or hay rakes

4. Less Risk for Seasonal or Backup Use

If you only need a sprayer or loader for a few weeks per year, a used machine makes more financial sense. It’s also ideal as a backup in case your main unit breaks down.

❌ Cons of Buying Used

1. Uncertain Maintenance History

Without service records, you risk buying something with:

Hidden mechanical wear
Expired parts or outdated safety features
Modified or tampered meters (engine hours)

2. Higher Risk of Repairs

Used machinery might need:

New tyres
Replaced bearings, seals, or belts
Refurbished hydraulics
Welding or frame repairs

This means unexpected downtime unless you thoroughly inspect the item or buy from a trusted seller.

3. Limited or No Warranty

Unless you buy from a dealer offering a warranty, most used items are sold “as-is”. That means you carry all repair costs from day one.

🔍 Tips for Making the Right Choice

📊 Do a Cost-Benefit Analysis

Ask:

How often will I use the implement?
Can I afford downtime if it breaks?
Do I have access to a good mechanic or spares?
Is financing available for a new model?
What is the resale value after 5–10 years?

🛠️ Know Your Maintenance Capabilities

If you or your staff are hands-on with repairs, used equipment is a viable option. But if you rely on technicians, newer models with fewer issues may be better.

🌾 Match Equipment to Farm Size

Small farms: Used tools often provide the best balance of value and performance.
Large commercial operations: May need the scale, uptime, and efficiency that only newer, advanced models can guarantee.

🛒 Where to Buy Used vs New Farm Equipment in South Africa

For New Equipment:

Tractor Giants, John Deere SA, AgriSA suppliers
Massey Ferguson, Claas, Landini dealerships
Directly from brands or via finance programs

For Used Equipment:

AgriGear Connect – Classifieds tailored for farmers
Gumtree, Facebook Marketplace, Farm Trader SA
Auctions (e.g., Aucor, Bidders Choice)
Local co-ops and second-hand dealers

🧾 Real-Life Example

Pieter, a mixed-crop farmer in the Western Cape, needed a sprayer for his 20-hectare plot. A new 400L unit cost R45,000. He found a lightly used one for R18,000 on a classifieds site. After replacing a worn pump (R2,500), it’s been running perfectly for 3 seasons — and saved him R24,500 upfront.

Conclusion: Used vs New Farm Equipment – Choose Smart

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the used vs new farm equipment question.

If you have the capital, want the latest technology, or depend on uptime for large operations — buying new makes sense. But if you’re growing gradually, watching your budget, or handy with repairs — used equipment gives you serious value.

Final tip: Inspect used items thoroughly, get quotes on parts, and don’t be afraid to ask questions.

Need help finding or listing farm implements?
Visit AgriGear Connect – the trusted platform for second-hand farm equipment in South Africa.

Comparing New vs Used Farm Implements