A Guide to Buying Pre-Owned Restaurant Supplies in OKC

Opening a restaurant in Oklahoma City can be an exciting yet daunting task. One of the most significant expenses is outfitting your kitchen with all the necessary equipment and supplies. Thankfully, buying high-quality pre-owned and used restaurant equipment in OKC can help you cut costs without sacrificing quality. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about finding and buying used restaurant equipment okc to help get your new establishment up and running.

Used Equipment Offers Significant Savings

One of the most significant benefits of buying used restaurant equipment in OKC is the cost savings. Brand-new commercial-grade equipment can be costly to purchase upfront. Opting for used supplies allows you to get premium items at a fraction of the price. As long as the equipment is well-maintained and still in good working order, buying used can be an intelligent money-saving strategy. Be sure to factor in any potential repair or upgrade costs down the line. However, even with those expenses, pre-owned equipment still offers substantial savings compared to brand new.

Inspect Equipment Thoroughly Before Buying

The key to success when buying any used restaurant equipment okc is thoroughly inspecting each item before making a purchase. You want to ensure it is in good working order and will not need major repairs any time soon. Here are some tips on inspecting used equipment:

• Check for any exterior damage like dents, cracks, or rust. Minor cosmetic issues are likely delicate, but structural damage could indicate more significant problems.

• Ask the seller to demonstrate that the equipment turns on and functions properly. Test all settings and features.

• Inspect wiring for any exposed copper or damage. Old/damaged wiring can present safety and fire hazards.

• For refrigeration units, ensure the seals are intact, and the temperature holds steady after being turned on for 30+ minutes.

• Listen and feel for any unusual noises, such as shaking, grinding, or humming, which could signify issues.

• Look for any leaks, grease buildup, or spots that could hint at underlying problems.

• Examine inside cabinets, drawers, etc., for signs of heavy wear and tear or damage.

• Ask questions about required maintenance, electrical needs, and the item's history. Thoroughly test and inspect each piece before agreeing to buy it. This will help avoid expensive surprise repairs down the road.

Used Restaurant Equipment OKC - Save Money Buying Pre-Owned

• Refrigerators, freezers, ice machines

• Ranges, ovens, cooktops

• Steamers, kettles, pasta cookers

• Food processors, mixers, slicers

• Pot racks, shelving units

• Stainless steel tables, sinks, prep tables

• Plates, bowls, pots, pans, utensils

• Highchairs, booths, furniture

New Restaurant Equipment OKC - Buy New for Safety

• Walk-in coolers/freezers (for food safety)

• Food storage containers

• Knives, cutting boards

• Dishwashers, chemical sanitizers

• Smallwares like tongs, spoons, spatulas

• Plumbing system and venting

• Fire suppression system

Keep this list in mind when sourcing your equipment. Focus on buying reliably functioning used items at a good value while purchasing new items for certain vital supplies.

Inspect Equipment Before Leaving the Seller

It may seem obvious, but you always want to thoroughly test and inspect used restaurant equipment okc before paying and transporting it away from the seller's location. This is your last chance to thoroughly check for issues and ensure you received what was promised. Make sure to:

• Verify model numbers/labels and features are correct

• Re-inspect for any damage that may have occurred during moving/shipping

• Ask the seller to turn on and demonstrate the equipment again after the transport

• Ensure refrigeration units maintain proper temperature

• Carefully examine loading/tie-down points that could have been stressed

• Look for new leaks, shifting, or unsecured components

• Test all accessories agreed upon in the sale

Refrain from assuming everything still works properly just because it did during the initial inspection. The jostling involved in loading and moving used equipment can sometimes uncover hidden issues. So take the needed time to re-check everything prior to leaving with your purchase.

Partner with Reputable Sellers

To give yourself the best chance for success buying used restaurant equipment okc, partner with reputable, trustworthy sellers. Here are signs of sellers that are legitimate and have your best interests in mind:

• Established commercial equipment dealers with an excellent local reputation

• Responsive customer service that answers questions thoroughly

• Reasonable prices compared to equipment condition

• Positive reviews from past customers

• Professional warehouse with equipment organized and accessible

• Willingness to demonstrate equipment function upon request

• Clear return policies just in case issues come up after the sale

• Assist with loading, transport, and installation as needed

The seller you choose can make all the difference in getting great value on used equipment or ending up with overpriced headaches. Do some research to find sellers with proven track records.

Ask About Installation, Repairs, and Warranties

Don't assume that buying used restaurant equipment okc means you're totally on your own after the purchase. Reputable sellers will often provide installation help, repairs, or even equipment warranties if negotiated. Be sure to ask potential sellers these key questions:

• Do you offer installation or equipment hook-ups? If so, what is included, and what are the costs?

• Can your repair technicians service equipment purchased from you if issues arise? How quickly can they respond?

• Is any warranty coverage available? What is covered under warranty versus not covered?

• What is your policy if equipment fails within the first X days after purchase?

Getting some guarantees around installation, technical support, and potential warranty coverage can provide valuable peace of mind with used purchases. Most sellers are willing to provide these services for fair fees to win your business.

Have Realistic Expectations for Budget and Quality

Finally, have realistic expectations around both budget and equipment quality when buying pre-owned restaurant supplies in OKC. High-end equipment costs a pretty penny even when used. Be prepared to make some significant investments in quality used items from reputable brands. Comparing prices from multiple sellers will help you set reasonable budgets.

In terms of quality, well-maintained equipment from commercial dealers could function like new. However, cheaper items from auction sites or individuals may require more repairs. Carefully inspecting equipment and partnering with the right sellers makes getting excellent quality much more feasible on a used equipment budget. With the right expectations around cost and condition, buying used equipment can be a brilliant move for new restaurants.

Conclusion

Purchasing pre-owned and used restaurant equipment is a budget-friendly way to outfit a commercial kitchen in OKC. One reputable seller in the area is Main Auction Services, Inc., offering a wide range of high-quality used items at a great value. Following the tips in this guide will help you make the most of your purchase. Be sure to thoroughly inspect equipment, buy innovatively, and negotiate on installation, repairs, and warranties. Partnering with reputable sellers like Main Auction Services, Inc. ensures a smooth transaction process. With reasonable expectations around costs and quality, buying used equipment can allow new restaurants to open successfully without breaking the bank.