What to do when, as a start-up with a limited budget, you need equipment? A machinery auction could offer a solution. "It saves costs. That's definitely a significant factor when purchasing machines at auction," says John van Berlo of Industrial Auctions, an international online auction platform specializing in business-to-business equipment, inventory, and goods auctioning in the food industry.
Jeroen van Kollenburg, John van Berlo, Jeroen Böttcher, Monique van Kollenburg, Ad van Kollenburg en Willem Geertsen
Pre-owned machinery is gaining popularity, especially in the fruit and vegetable sector. According to John, there are several reasons why companies choose secondhand machines. "New equipment often has a long delivery time, and with used equipment, the kinks have already been worked out." Sustainability and circularity also play a role. "In this day and age, extending machines' lifespan is relevant," he says.
Industrial Auctions makes an inventory on-site
Industrial Auctions organizes weekly auctions in sectors including fresh produce. They offer a broad range of products, from washers, dryers, and slicers to refrigeration and packaging equipment. High costs, lack of succession, or product innovation mean businesses regularly choose to sell their machines. "Sometimes companies stop a production line to create space for something new."
The auctioneer works closely with sellers during the sale. "We do an on-site inventory and create a professional catalog with clear photos. For us, everything is about unburdening both sellers and buyers," says Van Berlo. That approach pays off: a production line is often sold within a month or two. Buyers - sometimes on the other side of the world - are happy, and sellers can quickly get on with their new set-up.
A common question is whether the machinery still functions. Since these are often non-operational at the time of the auction, Industrial Auctions requests video footage from sellers. Buyers, thus, still get a good idea. "We offer 99% certainty, not the full 100 because we haven't seen the equipment at work."
Buyers must register to place bids, and Industrial Auctions does data checks. "When in doubt, we contact them. That way, we can be sure that only serious buyers are participating," John explains. That approach ensures a quick post-auction process. "Buyers can collect their equipment within a week."
Besides on-site auctions, the company has three fixed locations in the Netherlands. "You can bring your machines there. Those are easily accessible for businesses that want to collaborate for the first time," John concludes.
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View the full range and bid via the Industrial Auctions website