How to Choose the Right Heavy Machinery Dealer

 

If you’re a seasoned fleet manager or a business owner managing several projects, you may know that finding the right heavy equipment dealer is no small task. Your decisions can impact your operations and return on investment. As such, you need a partner you can rely on for quality machinery, expert guidance and unwavering post-sale support.

This guide discusses how to choose a heavy equipment dealer.

1. Ensure the Dealer’s Machine Fulfills Your Needs and Specifications

Your equipment needs are unique to your operation, so the dealer you choose should offer machinery that fits your requirements. The wrong equipment can lead to safety hazards and downtime.  If you’re in the mining industry, you need equipment capable of handling heavy loads, while small construction projects might benefit from compact and versatile machines.

Here are a few ways to check if the dealer has the machine you need:

• Assess inventory: Does the dealer offer equipment with varying capabilities? Are the machines brands and models you trust?
• Customizable options: Check if the dealer provides attachments or upgrades to maximize productivity.
• Performance testing: If possible, request a demonstration to see how the equipment performs under load.

2. Choose a Licensed Supplier

Licensing ensures the dealer adheres to safety and quality standards. Working with an unlicensed dealer can lead to legal troubles, unreliable machinery and a lack of recourse if something goes wrong.

Here’s how to ensure you’re working with an authorized supplier:

• Request licensing documentation: Ask the dealer for proof of licensing or accreditation. A reputable supplier will provide this information willingly.
• Inspect dealer credentials: Look for certifications from industry organizations that show the dealer’s adherence to professional standards.
• Manufacturer-dealer relationship: Some dealers have direct manufacturer relationships. Check if the manufacturer’s website lists the dealer as an official partner.
• Evaluate insurance coverage: Verify if the dealer is adequately insured. This ensures they can handle liabilities and provide extra protection for your investment.

3. Find a Reliable Equipment Dealer With Experience

Experienced dealers understand the nuances of the industry. They know which equipment is best suited for specific tasks and can anticipate potential challenges. Inexperienced dealers may struggle to provide proper guidance or timely solutions. Equipment downtime can cost thousands of dollars daily in lost productivity. An experienced dealer can quickly identify and resolve issues to minimize disruptions.

The signs of a reliable heavy equipment dealer are:

• Longevity: Dealers with decades of experience bring unparalleled expertise. Their industry-specific knowledge helps them provide tailored solutions for your needs.
• Proven track record: Check case studies or customer success stories that show the dealer’s ability to deliver.
• Service excellence: Experience often goes hand in hand with superior service. For example, Arnold Machinery Company’s Silver Service® guarantee exemplifies this. This policy is our promise to do everything ethically possible to satisfy customers and ensure they receive quality support before, during and after a purchase.
• Industry Reputation: A company with a strong reputation has earned it through consistent performance, reliability and customer satisfaction. Companies that have been in business for decades have built credibility by continuously meeting the needs of their customers.
• Location and Accessibility: If your business relies on heavy machinery for construction or mining operations, you need a dealer who can quickly deliver parts, provide on-site support and minimize downtime. Check whether the dealer services multiple areas and consider how easily you can access their branches or service centers when needed.
• Range of Brands and Models: The right dealer should offer a diverse inventory with multiple brands and model variations and both new and used options. For example, Arnold Machinery Company offers different types of equipment from leading brands like Volvo and Hitachi. This variety gives customers access to machines tailored to different industries, project sizes and budgets.
• Insurance and Liability Coverage: An insured dealer safeguards both parties in case of equipment malfunctions or unforeseen damage. Ask whether the dealer carries comprehensive liability insurance and whether their policies cover equipment failures, transport damages or issues that arise during the warranty period.

4. Consider Warranties

A strong warranty and service agreement provides peace of mind and financial protection by covering the costs of certain repair and replacement costs. Without a warranty, repair labor or replacement parts costs can eat into your budget. Look for warranties covering both parts and labor. When evaluating warranty options, be sure to ask the following questions to understand the terms and conditions:

1. What does the warranty cover? Does it include parts, labor or both? Are there specific components or types of failures excluded? Would a rental or loaner unit be available while the customer unit is being repaired, and if so, who would be responsible for the cost?
2. How long is the coverage period? Does the warranty provide sufficient coverage for your anticipated usage period in months and hours?
3. What are the maintenance requirements? Are there conditions requiring regular servicing by authorized technicians to keep the warranty valid? Will this cover the technician’s travel time and mileage?
4. Is there an extended warranty option? If so, what are the costs and benefits beyond the standard warranty?

5. Check for a Positive Reputation

A positive reputation signals trustworthiness, dependability and consistent quality. When customers speak highly of a dealer, it implies excellent service, reliable equipment and effective post-sales support. Conversely, a pattern of negative feedback can be a warning sign that you might face poor customer service or unreliable machinery. Choosing a heavy equipment dealer with a solid reputation sets the foundation for a successful partnership.

Investigate the following to get a sense of a dealer’s reputation:

• Online reviews: Platforms like Google Reviews provide a wealth of unfiltered customer feedback. Social media can be a great resource, too. Regardless of where you check, pay attention to patterns. Are there recurring complaints about delayed service or faulty equipment? Do reviewers consistently praise customer support, product quality or the buying process? How does the dealer respond to negative feedback?
• Industry references: Speak with colleagues or industry peers who’ve worked with the dealer. For example, firsthand construction machinery dealer recommendations can provide invaluable insights into the dealer’s strengths and weaknesses.
• Dealer testimonials: Testimonials often highlight key strengths. For example, at Arnold Machinery Company, we emphasize our personalized approach, ethical practices and customer-first policies. These recurring themes show that customer satisfaction is integral to our operations.

Here are some things to be wary of:

• Only positive reviews.
• A string of complaints about poor service, unreliable equipment or unresponsive customer support.
• Dealers who fail to address negative reviews or leave problems unresolved.

6. Consider After-Purchase Support and Services

After-purchase support is just as crucial as the initial transaction. Ongoing maintenance, repairs and other sale services can keep your equipment reliable and productive for years.

Here’s why after-sales support is essential:

• Minimizes downtime: When machinery breaks down, dealers provide prompt repair services or on-site maintenance to help you get your equipment back up and running.
• Improves equipment life span: Regular maintenance and access to genuine parts can extend the life of your machine.
• Increases productivity: Well-maintained equipment performs better, so you can complete projects more efficiently.

7. Ask About Financing Options

Whether you’re looking for a flexible lease, long-term ownership or customized payment plans, a dealer’s financing options can impact your cash flow and financial strategy.  Flexible financing options allow you to prioritize other operational needs to balance resource allocation. With the right plan, you can get the equipment you need now and pay for it in a way that aligns with your revenue streams. Please note these financing options only apply to our construction and material handling divisions, not our farming or mining divisions. For tailored financing solutions for your company, we encourage you to speak directly with a representative from those divisions.

Common financing options offered by dealers include:

• Internal financing options: You may find options to accommodate your needs, including variable payment schedules or early payoff incentives.
• Fair market value or operating lease: This option allows you to use equipment for a set term at the same monthly price without the cost or responsibilities of equipment ownership. It also offers the most flexibility at the term’s end.
• Lease to own: Also called a $1 out capital lease, this option lets you use equipment for a set term at the same monthly price, with equipment ownership naturally transferring to you at the end of the term for $1.

8. Consider Location and Proximity

Downtime is costly. When a critical piece of machinery breaks down, every hour spent waiting for parts, repairs or replacement equipment translates into lost productivity and revenue.

A dealer with a nearby branch or multiple locations can help minimize downtime in the following ways:

• Faster repairs: Access to a local service center means they can repair or maintain your equipment more quickly.
• Quick delivery: Dealers close to your business can deliver parts, attachments or machines directly to your jobsite with minimal delay.
• Reduced travel time: For routine maintenance or troubleshooting, a nearby dealer saves your team the hassle of transporting equipment long distances.

9. Evaluate Available Maintenance Plans

To protect your investment, maintain peak performance and minimize downtime, a reliable dealer should provide comprehensive maintenance plans and after-sales support. Dealers may offer preventive maintenance, scheduled servicing or full-service contracts.

Before committing to a plan, ask:

• Does it cover both labor and parts, or will there be additional costs?
• Are there any service exclusions that could leave you exposed to unexpected expenses?
• What is the response time for routine and emergency maintenance?

 

Why Choose Arnold Machinery Company as Your Heavy Machinery Dealer

Arnold Machinery Company has a long-standing reputation for quality, service and customer satisfaction.

Here’s why you should partner with us:

• Decades of experience and a strong track record: We have served the construction, mining and other industries for over 95 years. Our legacy is built on deep industry knowledge, consistent service and innovative solutions.
• Silver Service® guarantee: Our Silver Service® guarantee sets us apart because we prioritize customer satisfaction above all else. We provide ethical and transparent dealings in every interaction and guarantee smiles from every customer. We also offer a “no policy book” approach that grants you flexibility to address your concerns.
• Comprehensive support: We provide exceptional after-sale services, comprehensive warranties and access to a wide inventory of parts. Our “no sale is final” practice assures you of assistance whenever needed.
• Nationwide reach: Our extensive service network ensures prompt support when needed.
• Customer testimonials and proven reputation: Our customers range from small businesses to large-scale construction and mining firms that consistently praise our service and expertise.
• Vast inventory and services: We provide access to a comprehensive range of heavy equipment. A wide selection allows you to choose equipment suited to your applications.

 

Partner With Arnold Machinery Company for Your Heavy Machinery Needs

With over 95 years of expertise, Arnold Machinery Company has built a legacy grounded in trust, transparency and a dedication to customer satisfaction. Our extensive selection of heavy machinery is tailored to meet your needs and budget. We offer reliable maintenance, repair services and a steady supply of parts to ensure your operations run smoothly. Additionally, our exceptional after-sales support guarantees you’ll always have assistance when you need it. Guided by our Customer Satisfaction is Our Only Policy®, we focus on creating lasting partnerships to help you achieve your business objectives. Reach out to us today to get started!