Used equipment exporter with a small yard

Overseas equipment dealers, contractors, farms and workshops that buy by the machine or by the container.

The margin between what you pay and your selling price, after repairs, storage, freight and fees. Selling several items in one container spreads the shipping cost.

• Judging equipment condition and fair value
• Basic mechanical or testing know-how
• Negotiating at auctions and with buyers
• Managing cash flow and logistics

• Your money is tied up in stock, so a slow sale or damaged item can hurt cash flow
• Export rules: check with the US Commerce Department (EAR) and your forwarder on licenses and export filings
• Screen buyers against restricted-party and sanctions lists before selling
• Check cleaning or inspection rules for used machinery, for example for soil on farm equipment, and any rules for your equipment type
• Check state and local rules on business licenses, resale or sales tax, and any dealer licenses for vehicles
• Ask an insurance agent about general liability, property and cargo insurance
• Lifting and moving heavy equipment carries injury risk, so plan for safe handling and hire help when needed

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around $15,000 to $60,000, depending on how much equipment you buy, your yard or unit rental, and shipping and insurance. Your money is tied up in stock, so a slow sale or damaged item can hurt cash flow.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated around $5,000 to $25,000, depending on the machines you buy and sell, container volumes and buyer demand. The estimate assumes at least about 25 hours a week.

Check US Commerce Department export rules (EAR) with your forwarder, screen buyers against restricted-party and sanctions lists, and check cleaning or inspection rules, such as soil on farm equipment. Also check state and local business license, sales tax and dealer license rules.