There are many different reasons why a hospital, clinic, urgent care center or even a doctor’s office may have medical equipment on hand that is no longer necessary. Often this is because of upgrades or new purchases, but it can also occur when specific testing is outsourced or no longer completed at the facility.
When this happens, used medical equipment buyers can provide a safe, efficient and stress-free way to get rid of old equipment and even add a bit back into the budget for replacement devices and machines.
Larger hospitals and facilities may routinely have visits from used medical equipment buyers proactively looking for specific types of equipment to add to their inventory. You will also be able to call into these companies and request a buyer to come out and provide a price on the equipment you wish to sell.
Before choosing the buyer you want to do business with, make sure you investigate the company. Avoid companies that are not transparent about their equipment buying process or those that are not established companies with a stellar reputation. Additionally, make sure to ask these three questions of the used medical equipment buyers you would contact.
Do You Pay Full Value Immediately?
Reputable buyers don’t buy on commission or pending an inspection. If you are not getting full value up front before shipping, it is very likely you will not get the balance of the offered price. This is because the equipment will “fail” the inspection. If you want the equipment back, you will have to pay for shipping both ways and sometimes for the inspection as well.
What Do I Pay For?
Make sure you understand what you will pay for and how that is reflected in the quoted price. Some of the less reputable companies will charge for all types of additional costs that can dramatically cut into the final price.
Where is the Contract?
Always insist on a written contract stipulating all the terms of the sale. Also, make sure the contract is signed by the purchaser (or representative) as well as by your representative.
The price, all fees and any issues or exceptions to the contract also have to be in writing for your protection and as good business practices.