Checklist: What to look for when buying a used sorting machine

Purchasing a used sorting machine is a smart investment for many companies in the vegetable, plant, flower, and fruit sectors. By choosing second-hand equipment, you benefit from lower purchase costs while still relying on proven, reliable technology.

However, it is important to take a critical approach before making a purchase. What should you look for? The specialists at Duijndam Machines share their key points of attention in this practical checklist to help reduce the risk of a bad investment. The checklist is also available as a convenient downloadable PDF.

Download Checklist PDF.

10-point checklist for buying a used sorting machine

1. Specifications: does the machine suit your product?

The first and perhaps most important step is determining whether the sorting machine is suitable for your application.

• Is the machine suitable for your product (for example potatoes, onions, or fruit)?
• Does it sort according to the desired specifications, such as weight, size, or quality?
• Does the capacity match your processing volume?

“A machine can be technically perfect, but if it doesn’t match your product or capacity, it’s of little use,” says Reinier Duijndam, Sales Director.

2. Dimensions and required space

Sorting machines with higher capacity often require more space. Consider not only the machine itself, but also:

• Infeed conveyors
• Outfeed conveyorsAny additional equipment 
• Make sure you clearly map out how much space you have available in advance.

3. First impression of the machine

The exterior of a machine often tells part of its story. Pay attention to:

• Is the paint still original?
• Are there many visible signs of wear?
• What is the overall appearance?

Original paint often makes it easier to estimate how intensively the machine has been used.

“A bit of rust or light wear is completely normal and usually says little about functionality,” says Peter, technician at Duijndam Machines.

4. Technical condition and wear parts

Take a close look at the technical condition of the machine, especially wear-sensitive parts such as:

• Conveyor belts
• Bearings
• Rollers and brushes

These components largely determine the reliability of the machine and the costs you can expect in the short term.

5. Deferred maintenance

Check whether the machine has been recently serviced or if there is any deferred maintenance.

Important questions include:

• When was the machine last serviced?
• Does it require immediate maintenance?
• Which parts may need to be replaced?
• Which parts can last another season?

This helps you get a realistic view of the total investment.

6. Manufacturer or dealer support

Good support is essential, even after purchase.

Therefore, check:

• Is there a local dealer or specialist available?
• Are spare parts readily available? 
• Is technical support available in case of breakdowns?

“If something stops during the season, you want to act quickly. Local support really makes the difference,” says Reinier Duijndam.

7. Electrical control cabinet

The electrical installation is a crucial part of the machine. Pay close attention to:

• Are all components securely in place?
• Are there no loose or damaged wires?
• Does the cabinet look well-maintained?

“A tidy control cabinet often says a lot about how the machine has been treated,” says Luc, electrical engineer at Duijndam Machines.

8. Control system support

With older machines, certain electronic components such as PLCs or displays may no longer be available new.

This does not necessarily have to be a problem, as long as the machine functions properly. There are often alternatives:

• Used components via specialized dealers
• Online availability of parts
• Repair of circuit boards by specialized companies

“In many cases, there are more solutions than customers initially expect, especially when it comes to repairing or replacing electronics,” says Luc.

9. Testing and demonstration

One of the best ways to gain certainty is to see the machine in operation, preferably with your own product or a comparable one.

During a demonstration, pay attention to:

• Does the machine run smoothly without interruptions?
• Is the sorting accuracy sufficient?
• Does the control system respond quickly and correctly?

“On paper everything can look right, but only when you see a machine running do you really know what you’re buying,” says Robbert Duijndam, Managing Director.

10. Price and sales conditions

Only once all the above points are clear does the price become truly relevant.

Pay attention to:

• The balance between price and technical condition
• Any warranties
• Sales conditions

Also compare the machine with the price of a new machine with similar specifications and consider its expected lifespan.

Final thoughts

Buying a used sorting machine requires careful consideration. By following this checklist, you can avoid surprises and make a well-informed decision. At Duijndam Machines, we combine years of experience with technical expertise to help customers find a machine that truly fits their needs.

Looking for advice or a suitable sorting machine? Feel free to contact us — we are happy to help.

Download our practical checklist

Planning to inspect a machine? Download our practical checklistto reduce the risk of unexpected surprises.