Smart dental

Blog posts educating and sharing insight on topics pertaining to the world of dental equipment and assets.

Blog By:
Tacomaquicksale

Are you considering selling pre-owned or used dental equipment? How do you determine the value of your used dental equipment when selling it? You can make extra cash when you sell dental equipment around your office that is slowly depreciating in value and taking up your valuable space! We've compiled the key factors that will help you arrive at a selling price or determine the purchase price of your pre-owned equipment. 

Check Second Market Prices 

Before deciding on your selling prices, check second market prices on sites such as eBay and the Dental Garage Sale. This will give you an idea of the asking price range available for similar used dental equipment. However, keep in mind that asking prices are not the actual worth of your items. Just think of it as a starting point when you sell dental equipment. 

Ask for an Appraisal

Have a detailed inspection done to check the condition and remaining lifetime of the dental equipment. When you get a market appraisal for your used dental equipment, you can determine a fair asking price if you plan on selling the items yourself. Consider hidden values in appraisals including warranty, storage, care, and refurbishment. Check out the different approaches to equipment appraisal. 

Assess the Current Trends Before You Sell Dental Equipment 

Is the equipment still usable in the modern-day office? Assessing the current trends will give you an idea of whether you can sell an item at a good price or a "throwaway" price. You'll often find newer and better versions of dental equipment on the market, including equipment from the same manufacturer. Even though you may have paid more for your equipment years back, anyone looking to buy dental equipment that is used or pre-owned will only consider its current market price. 

Check Retail and Expect 50%-75% Off

While selling used dental equipment, it's important to remember that the buyers are looking for a "bargain." Expect 50% to 75% off the current retail value when everything is considered, including additional costs (e.g., transportation). 

Check the Equipment's Working Condition: Is It Working or Not?

Is the equipment working or not? Is it complete? You need to thoroughly check for all the functionalities of the equipment and accessories. The seller generally bears the cost for minor repairs when they sell dental equipment. If there are any significant repairs needed, then the item may be saleable as junk for its spare parts’ value. This means the equipment is only great for parts, typically reducing its value by about 50% of retail value.  

Age of the Equipment

What's the item's age? Is it more than 10 years old? Dental equipment residual or depreciation life tends to vary from item to item or between different equipment models. While some equipment may be sturdy and can last for 10 to 15 years or more, others may not be worth it even after five years. However, irrespective of the accounting years, an item is considered to depreciate by 2-10% per year. This means that the more the equipment ages, the lower its value becomes. 

Confirm With Peers Who Have Sold Similar Units

Do you know anyone that has sold similar dental equipment? If so, how much did they sell it for? Talk to local peers who have sold the same items and ask what they received. This will give you an idea of how to price your pre-used dental equipment.

Follow Groups and Classified Postings

Following groups and classified postings are a great way to follow up on recent trends. Some of the great resources include Dental Garage Sale and Dental Hub 360, which are Facebook groups, and Dentaltown Classifieds, the buy and sell section. On Dental Garage Sale, you can search for specific items and check if they're sold and how much for. Spotting your unit will provide you with an idea of the market trend, and you can use the same to sell dental equipment.