Why Buying New Beats Used: The Real Value of a New Fabrication Machine
April 2025 | Sanson Northwest Machinery
When it comes time to add or replace equipment in your shop, there’s always that moment of hesitation:
“Do I buy new, or can I save some money with a used machine?”
We get it — the upfront cost of used machines can look tempting. But when you dig a little deeper, new fabrication equipment often wins out in performance, reliability, and long-term value. Here’s why:
1. Reliability = Uptime
Used machines come with a past — and usually, that past involves years of wear and tear. Bearings, hydraulics, electronics… even with solid maintenance, things break.
New machines?
They show up clean, calibrated, and ready to run. You get maximum uptime right out of the crate, which means fewer headaches and no scrambling for parts or emergency repairs.
2. Modern Controls Make a Huge Difference
CNC and touch-screen controls have come a long way — even in the last 5 years.
Older machines often have outdated interfaces or controllers that are difficult to program, clunky to use, or no longer supported.
New brakes, shears, and saws come equipped with intuitive controls that speed up setup, reduce operator error, and simplify training.
That means your team can get more done — faster.
3. Warranty & Support = Peace of Mind
When you buy new, you’re not alone.
You get manufacturer warranties, factory service, and local dealer support (like us here at Sanson Northwest Machinery).
That kind of backup just doesn’t exist with used. If something goes sideways, you’re covered — plain and simple.
4. Better Efficiency, Lower Operating Costs
Modern machines are built to be more efficient — less power draw, better hydraulic systems, tighter tolerances, and longer-lasting components.
It adds up:
⚡ Lower energy bills
🔧 Fewer service calls
🕒 Faster cycle times
💵 More parts out the door
5. Financing and Section 179 Tax Savings
Many shop owners don’t realize that financing a new machine is often easier and more affordable than trying to self-fund a used one.
And with Section 179 tax deductions, you may be able to write off a huge portion of the purchase this year.
The Bottom Line:
Sure, used machines can work… but if your business depends on reliable output, low downtime, and efficient production, a new machine just makes more sense.
It’s an investment — not just in equipment, but in your shop’s future.
Need help finding the right new fabrication machine?
📞 Give us a call at (425) 513-8263
📍 Stop by and let’s talk shop.