Material-handling equipment can reduce manual lifting, improve flow and allow one operator to manage processes that otherwise require multiple people. Return conveyors, lifts, vacuum lifters, stackers and transfer systems should be evaluated as part of the complete production cell.
Map the process first
Document part sizes and weights, line speed, infeed and outfeed heights, operator positions and available floor space. Identify the host machine and how the handling equipment communicates or interfaces with it.
What to verify
- Minimum and maximum part dimensions and weights
- Conveyor or lift capacity and speed
- Working height and footprint
- Belt, roller, chain and bearing condition
- Vacuum system condition when equipped
- Sensors, controls and host-machine interface
- Guarding and emergency stops
- Electrical and compressed-air requirements
Research iBiD history
Browse current machinery and sold material-handling equipment. Submit a Machinery Wanted request for a specific configuration, or sell equipment through iBiD.
Budget beyond the purchase price
Compare machines on total installed cost, not asking price alone. Budget for loading, rigging, freight, unloading, electrical or compressed-air work, dust or vacuum connections, tooling, software or controls support, commissioning and any repairs identified during inspection. A lower purchase price can become more expensive if removal or installation is unusually complex.
Questions to ask the seller
- Is the machine currently connected and available for a powered demonstration?
- What is included with the sale, and what tooling, accessories or support equipment is excluded?
- Are manuals, backups, software licenses or service records available?
- Who is responsible for disconnecting, loading and rigging?
- When must the machine be removed, and are there site-access constraints?
If you own similar equipment, submit it to iBiD for review. If you are still searching, use the Machinery Wanted form to describe the machine and timing you need.