A Guide on Selling Your Old Screen Printing Equipment

Do you have old silk screen printing machines lying around that you aren't using anymore? Don't let your outdated and unused equipment take up space, just collecting dust-- make a bit of extra money by selling it. Selling your old silk screen machines can seem like a daunting task at first. But by using this step-by-step guide, you can ensure that your old screen machinery ends up in the hands of someone who will put it to good use.

Gather Basic Information

Once you've decided to sell your silk screen machines, the first step is to gather all the information you need for the sale. This will help you establish a fair selling price and accurately advertise your products to potential buyers. Here are some of the details to take note of:

• Manufacturer and model name or number
• Size, color, and material
• Age
• Condition
• Accessories or extra that come with it, like additional screens

Gather as much information about the equipment as you can; the more details you have, the easier it will be for you to price and sell. 

Think About Why You're Selling

Why do you want to get rid of your old equipment? Have you outgrown your gear? Are you moving and need to downsize? Do you need extra cash for an upgrade or a new business venture?

These are all equally valid reasons for selling, but each one can impact how you price and sell your gear. If you need to clear out space or get cash quickly, posting on a website like Craigslist and offering a lower price can speed up the sale. But if you're not in a rush, you can take your time finding a suitable buyer, either online or in person, who will pay what you believe the equipment is worth. 

Assess the Condition

Evaluating the state of your supplies is a critical step. It can help you decide how to price your equipment or if it's worth selling at all. Here are some tips for assessing the condition of your silk screen printing machines:

• Check for missing parts and determine if they can be replaced easily before selling
• Make sure all buttons, dials, and other moving parts are in good working order
• Inspect for scratches, tears, and other signs of damage
• Ensure the equipment is functional

If your supplies are unusable, consider repairing them before selling so you can charge a higher price. You could also try selling it "as is" or for parts. But remember: the worse the condition of your silk screen machines, the less you'll be able to make from the sale.

Research Its Value

With your screen machinery's basic specs and overall condition in mind, you can begin researching its value. To do this, consider how much money you initially spent on buying it. Consider any repairs you've made since then and take those into account as well.

Next, investigate how your competitors are pricing their supplies. You can check out local screen printing supply shops to see what similar equipment is selling for in a new condition. Then, check how other resellers are pricing their supplies. Search for the exact brand and model of your screen print press on resale websites like eBay and Craigslist. By looking at other listings, you can get a better idea of how much your supplies are worth.

Keep in mind the potential for negotiations when pricing your items. Many buyers will try to haggle to get a lower price. Plan for this eventuality by coming prepared with two amounts: how much you'd ideally like to make and the lowest amount you'd accept. This way, you can work with them instead of turning down these buyers outright.

Clean It Up

Make sure your equipment is clean before photographing and selling it. Wipe off any dust and remove grease and grime that has accumulated over time. You can use a general-purpose cleaner or degreaser if you have one available. If not, try using hot water and soap to scrub the machine.

Next, clean the screens. Use warm water to rinse the printing area of each screen thoroughly while gently shaking it back and forth. Be careful so you don't unintentionally damage any part of the screen. Then dry it gently with a towel. When cleaning, you should always heed the manufacturer's guidance for care and maintenance. Doing so can prevent any accidental damage.

Decide Where to Sell

Now that you have all the information you need and your items are prepped for sale, you can decide where you want to sell. Here are a few places you can sell your silk screen machines and other supplies:

• Broker: Working with a broker is the easiest way to sell your gear, but you may not make as much because they keep a portion of the sale. Partner with a reputable broker and sign a contract before going into business with them. 
• Local Screen Printing Shop: Sometimes stores will buy used equipment, but be sure to call them first.
• Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist: Posting a screen print press online for a local pickup is an easy way to sell most things.
• eBay: If you're able to ship your gear, you can list it online using a site like eBay for auction or a set price.

High-quality photos are essential for ad listings. Buyers want to know exactly what they're purchasing, especially if they won't see the equipment in person first. Use good lighting and a solid colored background for best results. If there are any signs of wear and tear or damage, you'll need to photograph them as well. Accuracy in your listing and photos are critical to keeping your customer happy.

Now, you're all set to sell your old screen printing equipment. You can get good money for your old screen printing machines if you know what they're worth, how they work, and how to make them look as good as possible before selling them. The key to receiving the best price is to do your research first, create an accurate listing, and, most importantly, be patient. Finding someone who will pay top dollar is not always easy, but the extra effort is worth it.

If you're looking for new silk screen machines, be sure to visit us at Holden's Screen Supply Corp.