Your generator is a business asset until you stop using it. Perhaps you want to upgrade to a new unit, or you have one you haven’t used for a while. You can get back your equity on the generator by selling it and using the funds for a new unit or for other aspects of your business.
Selling a generator does not have to be cumbersome or cause you any stress if you take the right steps and work with experts who know about the processes involved.
Step 1: Verify the basics
Gather some common information about the generator you are selling. This information will help determine the value of your generator and how much you can sell it for. You will need to collect the following details about your generator:
Manufacturer Name
You will find the name of the manufacturer on the generator nameplate. This will determine the value and demand for your generator. Generators made by reputable manufacturers may fetch a better price than others because of higher demand.
Model Number
The model number will also help buyers determine the value of the generator and understand the parts they may need for repairs and maintenance. They can also be aware of common issues relating to that specific model.
Age of Unit
The age of your generator will affect the price. Most importantly, you need to know if your generator was manufactured before 2007 or after. Generators manufactured from 2007 onwards conform to tier 4 emissions standards as per the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Tier 4 generators have lower particulate matter (PM) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions. Your older generator is likely to be grandfathered in. However, when you sell the unit, this provision expires.
Size in Kilowatts
The kilowatt (kW) ratings of an industrial generator will essentially show how much power it can supply. Kilovolt ampere (kVa) rating is also important as this shows the apparent power of your generator. The higher the kVa rating, the more power the generator will produce.
Another specification you need to know when selling is the Power Factor (PF) of your generator, which is the ratio between kW and kVa that is drawn from an electrical load. A higher PF indicates better efficiency of the generator.
Fuel Type
Diesel is commonly used in generators for industrial and commercial applications, followed by natural gas. Knowing the fuel type of your generator will determine the value and price in the market, depending on demand and average sale prices.
Run Hours
Run time is another factor that is taken into consideration. Most industrial generators will have an hour meter to measure running time. Typically, lower running hours are better for sales.
Step 2: Find Documentation
It is extremely helpful to have the service history and other documentation available when selling your generator. Buyers are interested in service and maintenance records, which help them determine the condition of the unit, how it has been used and maintained, and the expected lifespan.
Look for records and dates for the following information:
- History of repairs
- Prior inspections
- Routine maintenance schedule
- Oil changes
- Fuel system servicing
- Load bank testing
Step 3: Take Photos
Sales listings with photos have a better impact on buyers than listings with no images. The idea is to showcase your generator and provide a visual close-up of the entire unit, including a view of the engine, battery panel, and other features of the generator. Photos also help to verify the details you have listed.
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Take photos of the following items:
- Manufacturer, brand, and model number
- All four sides of the unit
- Closeup of the engine and the ID tag
- Control panels
- The hour meter
- Battery panel or transfer switch (if it is included)
- View of the unit in its enclosure (if it is included)
- Any extra features such as alarms or emergency stop buttons
Step 4: Know the Specifics
Be detailed in your listing. It’s important to give buyers a complete description and all the information about the generator.
Consider the following questions about your generator before listing the unit:
- How was the generator used? Was it used as a primary, standby, or continuous unit? This will determine the rate of wear and tear on the unit.
- Where was the generator located? Has it been protected from the rain inside a facility, or was it kept outside for its lifetime? This helps buyers understand the condition of the unit.
- What kind of motor does it have? An 1800 rpm generator is more fuel-efficient but will cost more than a 3600 rpm motor, which wears out more quickly.
Other information to include in the listing:
- Number of prior owners (if any)
- List of special features, alarms, or indicators
- Decibel levels of the running unit
- Fuel type—gasoline, diesel, propane, natural gas, or solar energy
- Any issues or problems
Step 5: Consider Logistics
It’s important to consider your timeline, the processes involved, and how fast you need the payment when preparing for the sale of your generator.
Before you sell a generator, it needs to be decommissioned and removed from your site. For commercial generators, the decommissioning process can be lengthy. The process can also involve moving the generator from one site to another, which will require lifting services and shipping.
Typically, decommissioning requires the help of experts like a generator decommissioning company, although you may do this yourself if you are properly equipped and have the necessary knowledge. However, many times, buyers will decommission and remove the unit simultaneously with the sale.
Start Your Sales Process
For a smooth sales process, take the time to implement the above steps to sell your generator. If you are looking to sell your generator seamlessly, submit your information here and get a quote from us. We are here to help.