BUYER GUIDE / 01

What to ask before buying a used CNC machine

Start with the work the machine must perform, then qualify configuration, condition, commercial scope and the physical move.

1. Does the configuration fit the application?

Confirm travels, spindle, taper, speed, power, tooling capacity, axes, workholding, control and required options. Model names alone do not establish the installed configuration.

2. What identity can be verified?

Request machine and control nameplates, serial information, year, current location, ownership context and a list of included accessories.

3. What condition evidence is available?

Ask whether the machine can be powered, whether alarms are present, what movements can be demonstrated, and whether maintenance or service records exist. Keep seller statements separate from observed evidence.

4. What is included in the commercial scope?

Clarify price basis, tooling, workholding, transformers, chip conveyors, manuals, loading, rigging, taxes, payment terms and any exclusions.

5. Can the machine be removed and shipped?

Verify dimensions, weight, lifting points, access, door openings, floor conditions, utility disconnects, loading equipment and destination requirements before committing to a schedule.

Use a structured RFQ

Providing these facts at the start reduces avoidable follow-up and makes options easier to compare. Submit a machinery RFQ →