When purchasing a GNSS receiver, whether you’re a professional surveyor, a contractor, or need reliable navigation equipment can be daunting. Purchasing a new GPS unit can be a significant investment, and it is important to get it right for your business! Besides getting the right equipment for your needs (Read More Here: Choosing the Right GPS Survey Equipment) you need to make sure you are getting the best possible deal for your equipment. In this blog post, let me tell you how to get the best deal out of your local Survey Equipment shop (whether Bench-Mark or anyone else!). In this post, I’ll give you three effective tricks to get the best deal you can: trading in old equipment, asking for used gear, and inquiring about upcoming sales.
Ask for Used or Refurbished Equipment
Ask About Upcoming Sales and Promotions
Upgrading your equipment can be a big deal. With the introduction of 7th generation RTK technology like the Hemisphere S631, surveying under trees and near buildings is possible with RTK. Replacing your total station can mean huge time savings in the field.
1. Trade-In Your Old Equipment
One of the best ways to save on any new survey equipment is too trade in your old equipment towards a new piece of equipment. Much like selling a car, selling your old equipment can become a real hassle, between dealing with scammers and low-ballers you can waste more time selling your equipment than it is worth. Not all survey equipment dealers will take trade-ins on old equipment, so make sure to ask if this is an option! Here at Bench-Mark we accept everything from total stations and GNSS receivers on trades-towards new RTK systems. So what are the benefits of a trade-in when purchasing new equipment?
Benefits of Trade-Ins:
- Cost Savings: Used gear is worth something! Use the value of your equipment against the final sale price of your new equipment. This can significantly reduce the price of a new unit.
- Avoid the Clutter Closet: If you have been working in surveying for any length of time, you probably have that dreaded closet filled with older and outdated equipment. Instead of having that equipment sit there and gather dust, put it towards a new system.
- Convenience: You don’t have to worry about selling your old equipment independently. As mentioned above it can become a real nightmare selling your equipment privately (Trust us, we run into attempted scammers often).
Steps to Trade-In Your Old Equipment:
- Contact Bench-Mark: You can usually contact Bench-Mark via their website, phone, or store visit to inquire about their trade-in program.
- Ask Bench-Mark to Evaluate Your Old Equipment: Check the condition and functionality of your old GPS unit. Devices that are newer and in good working condition will fetch a higher trade-in value.
- Get an Estimate: Provide details and photos from your old GPS unit so you can receive an estimate of its trade-in value. Depending on the system, you may need to send in your old equipment or drop it off at a Bench-Mark location for a final evaluation.
- Get Money Back: Once your trade-in is processed, you can use the credit to purchase a new RTK system(including the Hemisphere S631).
Tips for Maximizing Trade-In Value:
Update Firmware: Ensure the software is current, which can also positively impact the trade-in value.
Keep it Clean: Make sure your old GPS unit is clean and free from damage and in working condition.
Include Accessories: Include original accessories like chargers, cables, and mounts, as they can increase the trade-in value.
Although the Hemisphere S320 was a great unit in its day, it can no longer compete with the latest RTK systems. Trading in your old RTK system towards a new RTK system can change your business.
2. Ask for Used or Refurbished Gear
Another excellent way to save money on a GPS unit is to ask your salesman if any used or refurbished units are available. These units are typically sold at a significant discount compared to brand-new models. You can get technology that is proven and reliable at a significant discount compared to the latest and greatest hardware out there.
Benefits of Used/Refurbished Units:
- Cost-Effective: You can get a high-quality GPS unit at a fraction of the cost of a new one.
- Immediate Availability: These units are usually in stock and ready to ship, eliminating long wait times.
How to Find Used/Refurbished Gear:
- Contact Customer Service: If you don’t see any listings online, contact Bench-Mark’s customer service to ask about availability.
- Sign Up for Notifications: Bench-Mark offers notifications when used or refurbished units become available. Signing up can give you a head start.
- Check Out the Pre-Owned Equipment Section: Regularly check-out the used equipment section of your favourite survey equipment dealer. Here at Bench-Mark we regularly update the availability of our systems on our Pre-Owned Equipment Section, and include a rating guide so that you know the condition you are purchasing.
However, when buying used equipment, you will want to be careful. Much like when buying a used car, if you do not know the ins and outs of the equipment you are purchasing, you will want to buy from somewhere with guarantees. When buying privately, you may not have recourse if your equipment arrives and does not work. Here at Bench-Mark we know that our reputation is everything, so we test and refurbish all used equipment that comes through the door. When buying you will also see our Used Equipment Condition Guide, that will let you know what to expect before spending any money.
The Bench-Mark used equipment guide sorts used equipment based on the condition of the units. Your survey equipment dealer should be able to provide a similar condition report on the equipment.
3. Ask About Upcoming Sales and Promotions
Timing your purchase to coincide with sales and promotions can lead to substantial savings. Like many retailers, Bench-Mark often has sales events where GPS units are discounted.
Benefits of Shopping During Sales:
- Significant Discounts: Sales events can offer substantial discounts, especially on high-ticket items like GPS base and rover units.
- Bundled Offers: Promotions may include bundled offers where you get additional accessories or services at a reduced cost or even for free.
- Special Financing: Sales events may also feature unique financing options, making it easier to afford your new GPS unit.
How to Stay Informed About Sales:
- Contact Sales Representatives: Ask your local survey equipment sales team (You can reach me directly at: 587-844-5838) about upcoming promotions.
- Join Mailing Lists: Sign up for Bench-Mark’s mailing list to receive notifications about upcoming sales and promotions. Sign-up for our mailer here: Newsletter Sign-Up!
Tips for Shopping During Sales:
- Act Quickly: Sales items can sell out fast, so be ready to make your purchase as soon as the sale starts.
Speak to your Bench-Mark Sales Rep: Sometimes, different equipment offers similar outcomes. Compare deals to ensure you’re getting the best price.
Conclusion
Getting the best deal on a new GPS unit from Bench-Mark involves strategic planning and savvy shopping. By trading in old equipment, considering used or refurbished units, and staying informed about upcoming sales, you can significantly reduce costs while obtaining a high-quality GPS unit. Whether upgrading your current equipment or purchasing your first GPS unit, these tips can help you navigate the process and get the most value for your money.
Want to try these tips out -> S631 Product
FAQs
How Can I Save Money When Purchasing a New GNSS Receiver?
To save money on a new GNSS receiver, consider the following strategies:
– Trade in your old equipment: Many dealers, including Bench-Mark, offer trade-in programs that provide credit towards a new purchase.
– Ask for used or refurbished equipment: These units are often sold at a significant discount and are reliable.
– Inquire about upcoming sales and promotions: Timing your purchase with sales events can lead to substantial savings and additional benefits like bundled offers and special financing.
What Are the Benefits of Trading in my Old Survey Equipment?
Trading in your old survey equipment offers several advantages:
– Cost savings: The trade-in value can significantly reduce the price of a new unit.
– Convenience: Avoid the hassle of selling your equipment independently.
– Clutter reduction: Clear out older, outdated equipment that’s gathering dust.
How Can I Ensure I Get the Best Value for My Trade-In?
– Keep it clean: Ensure your old GPS unit is clean, free from damage, and in working condition.
– Include accessories: Original accessories like chargers, cables, and mounts can increase the trade-in value.
– Update firmware: Keeping the software current can positively impact the trade-in value.
What Should I Consider When Buying Used or Refurbished GNSS Equipment?
When buying used or refurbished GNSS equipment, consider the following:
– Cost-effectiveness: These units are usually much cheaper than new ones.
– Immediate availability: They are typically in stock and ready to ship.
– Reputation of the seller: Buy from reputable dealers like Bench-Mark that test and refurbish all used equipment and provide condition guides.
How Can I Stay Informed About Upcoming Sales and Promotions for GNSS Equipment?
To stay informed about sales and promotions:
– Contact sales representatives: Regularly ask your local survey equipment sales team about upcoming promotions.
– Join mailing lists: Sign up for mailing lists from dealers like Bench-Mark to receive notifications about sales and promotions.
– Check online resources: Frequently visit the dealer’s website and pre-owned equipment sections to stay updated on available deals.
Bench Mark Equipment & Supplies is your team to trust with all your surveying equipment. We have been providing high-quality surveying equipment to land surveyors, engineers, construction, airborne and resource professionals since 2002. This helps establish ourselves as the go-to team in Calgary, Canada, and the USA. Plus, we provide a wide selection of equipment, including global navigation satellite systems, RTK GPS equipment, GNSS receivers, and more. We strive to provide the highest level of customer care and service for everyone. To speak to one of our team today, call us at 403-286-0333 or email us at [email protected].