Tractors are the key to modernisation and farm mechanisation in agriculture. They are powerful farm machines that can perform various tasks, from planting and ploughing to hauling and harvesting.
However, given the large percentage of marginal and small farmers in India, not every farmer can afford new tractors. As a result, the penetration of tractor is very low. On every 16-farming household, there is only 1 tractor. In other words, there are 80 lakhs tractor for 13 crore farming households. Hence, the scope for used tractor market in India is very large.
There are several compelling benefits to buying a used tractor, with cost savings being just one of them. In this blog, we will discuss the advantages of opting for a pre-owned tractor and explore why it can be wise decision to buy a used tractor.
Having understood what is a tractor and the used tractor market size, in this section we will be detailing the top 10 advantages of buying a used tractor. these includes cost savings, access to wider range of models, and low insurance costs, among others.
Cost savings is the most obvious advantage of buying a used tractor. New tractors come with a hefty price tag, and the latest models with cutting-edge technology can be costly.
On the other hand, used tractors are significantly more affordable, often costing only a fraction of their new counterparts.
The substantial price difference allows farmers to allocate their budget more efficiently and invest in other essential equipment or improvements to their operations.
Additionally, the depreciation of a tractor is most significant during its first few years of use. By buying a used tractor that is a few years old, you can avoid the steep initial depreciation, meaning you will lose less money on the resale value if you decide to upgrade.
Another compelling reason to consider a used tractor is that you can benefit from its track record. When you buy a used tractor, you are likely purchasing a model that has been tested and proven in the field.
Farmers and tractor owners have already put it through its paces, giving you insights into its reliability and performance.
Many used tractors already come with maintenance records, allowing you to see how well it has been cared for. You can make an informed decision based on the tractor's history.
The used tractor market offers a diverse range of models in terms of brand and functionality. This variety allows you to find a tractor that suits your needs and preferences.
The diversity also extends to tractor features and attachments. Many used tractors come with additional implements and accessories, such as loaders, ploughs, or mowers, which can further enhance their versatility and value.
Insurance is an ongoing expense for tractor owners, generally based on the tractor's value. You can expect lower insurance premiums since used tractors have a lower market value than new ones. This can translate into significant savings over the years, making your overall cost of ownership more manageable.
Tractors, like most vehicles, depreciate over time. But the depreciation rate is much slower for used tractors than for new ones.
When you purchase a new tractor, its value can go down as soon as it leaves the dealership, losing a substantial portion of its worth in the first few years.
Used tractors, on the other hand, have already experienced the steepest part of their depreciation curve. While they will continue to depreciate, it is at a much slower rate.
This means that the money you invest in a used tractor is more likely to hold its value over time, providing you with a better return if you sell it later.
Tractor manufacturers tend to support their products for many years, even after releasing newer models. This means finding spare parts and getting service and maintenance for a used tractor is generally more straightforward.
Dealerships and independent mechanics are well-versed in servicing older models, ensuring that your used tractor remains in good working condition.
Sustainability is becoming increasingly important in agriculture. By choosing a used tractor over a new one, you are contributing to environmental conservation efforts.
Manufacturing new tractors consumes significant resources and energy, whereas buying a used one extends the life of existing equipment. This reduces the overall environmental impact associated with tractor production and disposal.
New tractors are often made to order, so you may have to wait several weeks or months before receiving your machine. In contrast, the used tractor market offers immediate availability.
Once you find a suitable used tractor, you can have it in your possession and put it to work much faster, allowing you to stay on schedule with your farming operations.
If you plan to finance your tractor purchase, you will generally find that interest rates and financing terms for used tractors are more favourable than those for new ones. This can lead to lower monthly payments and less financial strain on your budget.
When you buy a used tractor, you often have the chance to support local sellers and dealerships. These businesses are essential to rural communities, providing jobs and services to those living there.
By choosing to purchase from local sources, you contribute to the economic well-being of your area and help sustain the agriculture industry at the local level.
In conclusion, buying a used tractor offers numerous advantages, with cost savings being just one of them. The established reliability, access to a broader range of models and accessories, lower insurance costs, reduced depreciation risk, easier access to spare parts and services, environmental benefits, faster availability, lower financing costs, and the opportunity to support local sellers all make a strong case for considering a pre-owned tractor.
Eventually, the decision should be based on your specific needs, budget, and long-term goals. Still, it's clear that used tractors have much to offer for farmers and landowners looking to make a smart investment in their agricultural operations.