If you have been working in the commercial landscaping industry for any length of time, you know that reliable commercial landscaping equipment can be expensive and sometimes hard to find. The costs can add up, but quality should not be compromised. All of these factors can make the entire process daunting and challenging.
Whether or not you've been in the landscaping business for a long time, strategizing is crucial in order to get reasonable prices for your tools and equipment, while also ensuring quality. Be sure to invest in the right equipment without breaking the bank by following these useful tips.
Create a list
Just like buying groceries at the supermarket, you also need to have a list on-hand when shopping for commercial landscaping equipment. A list will help you stay focused and organized. It will also keep you from making unnecessary purchases.
Start by thinking about which items your business really needs. If you're just starting out, consider what you need in order to jumpstart your business. For example, you’ll probably want to invest in lawn mowers, gardening tools, commercial vehicles, commercial trimmers, and commercial power washers.
However, if you've been in the business for some time, it’s wise to take inventory of your commercial landscaping equipment. Are you missing any necessary items? Do you need to purchase more commercial lawn mowers or commercial power washers? What about commercial trimmers and commercial vehicles for your business?
Weigh your options
Now that you have determined what you need to buy in order to get your business up and running, it's time to make decisions. There are several factors that you need to consider before investing in your tools and equipment. For one, you need to decide whether you want to rent or purchase commercial equipment.
For instance, if your business is just starting out and you're on a tight budget, you may want to consider renting instead of buying. This way, you can get the tools that will suit your needs without having to spend too much cash all at once.
If you decide to buy, you'll have to think about whether you want to invest in new or second-hand products - both options have their pros and cons. Brand new equipment is, of course, expected to be in stellar shape, and should last a long time. The downside, however, is that brand new commercial equipment can be more pricey, and you might not be able to afford everything you need at the same time.
On the other hand, second-hand commercial landscaping equipment is usually cheaper than their brand new counterparts. Should you choose to go with this option, be sure to choose commercial equipment that is still in good condition. Look for reputable dealers to make sure the equipment and tools in which you invest are properly maintained. Otherwise, you may end up spending more money on repairs than the actual acquisition costs.
You may be torn between whether to buy or rent, but you can also do a mix of both. Consider buying the tools you'll be using relatively often, while renting the ones you won't need as frequently.
Research
Another important way to ensure that you’re getting the most bang for your buck is to do your research. Take the time to research different brands and stores to learn about the differences in terms of price and quality. This will help narrow down your options and give you insight into the best commercial landscaping equipment options for you.
The internet will come in handy. You can read commercial landscaping equipment reviews, and compare prices online to help you find the best deals. If you have friends or colleagues who are also in the commercial landscaping business, consider asking them for advice as well.
You also need to prioritize safety. Even though you’re looking to save some cash on your landscape equipment, be sure not to compromise safety in the process. Make sure that none of your purchases will pose a danger to your employees, and that none of the purchases or repairs you may be putting off will also compromise anyone’s safety.
Remember that prioritizing budget over safety is never a smart move when it comes to the well-being of your employees or your company. Therefore, as you’re deciding which pieces of the landscape equipment to buy or rent, make sure that safety is always at the top of your list.
Quality and reliable equipment play a significant role in the success of your business. Follow this checklist to guide you as you make your commercial landscaping equipment purchases.
At MowMore, we dedicate our efforts to supporting professional landscapers. We focus on your business needs, and our inventory is optimized with all of the parts and supplies you need. Give us a call to learn more!