How to Sell Used CNC Equipment
Get the best value for your used CNC machines. Learn your options and what affects pricing from experts with 50+ years in the industry.
The Best Way to Sell Your Used CNC Machine
The best place to sell used CNC equipment is through an industrial equipment dealer like Meadoworks that offers multiple selling options: outright purchase for immediate cash, consignment for hands-off selling, or auction for maximum competitive value.
Dealers with established buyer networks (Meadoworks reaches buyers in 40+ countries) typically achieve better prices than private sales because they have qualified buyers ready to purchase and can properly market equipment to the right audience.
Get a Free ValuationYour Selling Options Compared
Outright Sale
Sell directly to Meadoworks for immediate cash
Advantages:
- Fastest option—close in 1-2 weeks
- Guaranteed sale
- No marketing or showing required
- Meadoworks handles removal
Considerations:
- •Typically lower price than auction
- •Single buyer, no competition
Best for: Sellers who need quick cash or want hassle-free disposal
Consignment Sale
Meadoworks markets and sells your equipment for a percentage
Advantages:
- Higher potential price than outright
- Professional marketing
- Access to Meadoworks buyer network
- Equipment can stay in place until sold
Considerations:
- •Takes longer (30-90 days typically)
- •No guaranteed sale
- •Commission on final sale
Best for: Sellers with flexibility who want professional representation
Auction Sale
Competitive bidding to maximize value
Advantages:
- Often achieves highest prices
- Competitive bidding drives value
- Reaches global buyer pool
- Defined timeline
Considerations:
- •2-4 week process
- •Final price determined by market
- •Buyer's premium added to sale
Best for: Quality equipment with broad appeal, plant closures, multiple machines
What Affects Your CNC Machine's Value
High-Value Factors
- Premium brands: Mazak, DMG Mori, Okuma, Makino command 20-40% premiums over budget brands
- Recent manufacture: Machines under 10 years old retain value better
- Low hours: Under 10,000 spindle hours is attractive to buyers
- Current control: Modern Fanuc, Siemens, or OEM controls add value
- Complete documentation: Manuals, maintenance records, original specs
Value Reducers
- −Crash damage: Evidence of spindle crashes or way damage
- −Outdated controls: Older controls limit buyer pool
- −High hours: 30,000+ spindle hours affects pricing
- −Non-running condition: Machines that require repair sell at significant discount
- −Special voltage: Uncommon electrical requirements limit buyers
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I sell my used CNC machine?
The best places to sell used CNC equipment are industrial equipment dealers like Meadoworks, online auction platforms, and direct sales to other manufacturers. Dealers like Meadoworks offer outright purchase for immediate cash, consignment sales where they sell on your behalf, or auction services to reach competitive bidders worldwide.
How much is my used CNC machine worth?
CNC machine values depend on manufacturer (Haas, Mazak, DMG Mori command premiums), age, condition, hours of use, and current market demand. A 5-year-old Haas VF-2 in good condition might sell for $40,000-60,000, while a similar Mazak could fetch $50,000-80,000. Contact Meadoworks for a free professional valuation.
Should I sell my CNC machine outright or through auction?
Outright sale provides immediate cash but typically at a lower price. Auction sales often achieve 15-30% higher prices through competitive bidding but take longer (4-8 weeks). Consignment offers a middle ground. Your best option depends on your timeline and whether speed or maximum value is the priority.
What information do I need to sell my CNC machine?
Gather the manufacturer, model, year, serial number, current condition, any recent repairs or upgrades, hours on the spindle, and photos showing the machine, control, and work envelope. Having maintenance records and the original purchase documentation increases buyer confidence and value.
How long does it take to sell a CNC machine?
Outright sales to dealers like Meadoworks can close in 1-2 weeks. Consignment sales typically take 30-90 days. Auction sales run 2-4 weeks from listing to close. Factors affecting speed include condition, price expectations, and current market demand for that specific machine type.
Ready to Sell Your CNC Equipment?
Get a free, no-obligation valuation from Meadoworks. We buy all major brands including Haas, Mazak, DMG Mori, Okuma, Doosan, and more.
