Q: Exactly what are you buying? ▲
Used, refurbished, remanufactured…it all starts to sound the same, but there are differences. Do you know which components (panels, worksurfaces, pedestals, overheads, task lights, electrical wiring, connectors, etc.) have been rebuilt? Which are used and sold in as-is condition? Is that in writing? What is the remaining life expectancy of the used components?
Q: Can you buy the sizes you need…when you need them? ▲
Used furniture has been re-purchased from a previous customer. It is typically available only in the panel widths and heights, or worksurface depths and widths they needed…not what you need, when you need it. Usually there are hidden costs in trying to make their parts and pieces fit your specifications. Additionally, availability is not assured for those inevitable add-ons in the sizes and finishes you need.
Q: What about moving parts? How much have they been moved? ▲
Most of the time, pedestals, overheads, or file storage units are re-sold, as they have been received back from the original owner, without reconditioning. You may not be aware of it, but ANSI/BIFMA has developed standards for loaded drawer cycles, tip tests, load limits, and other safety and durability qualifiers. How many drawer openings and closings has the unit been through? Are the locks going to hold up? How can you be assured that your expectation of years of trouble-free service will be met?
Q: What is the warranty on used furniture and who backs it? ▲
Look closely! The fine print usually contains exclusions for expected damages such as worksurfaces bowing, paint chipping, or moving parts. (There are many!) Is labor included? Lifetime warranty? Whose lifetime? Is your warranty dependent upon the staying power of a small business? All warranty information should be in writing, complete, and backed by a large manufacturer for the duration.
Q: What’s your favorite color? ▲
Much of the painted portion of the panels, connectors, support, and trim has been scratched during use, storage, reconfiguring, handling, back to storage, and finally shipping (without the original cartons) back to the furniture broker. This wear and damage is touched up or spray-painted to improve cosmetics. This repainting process differs greatly from the original manufacturer’s, which usually involves baking the finish over clean, primed metal. A common irritation to owners of used furniture is constantly chipping paint (also see "warranty" question, above).
Q: Is there enough good, clean power? ▲
Power is very easily overlooked, but of critical importance. New products should be U.L. listed and of current 4-circuit technology. In most cases, used furniture will contain used electrical components. How much is too much wear and tear? Has the wiring ever been overloaded? Overheated? Is the ground wiring and insulation still in tact? If you are purchasing new electrical with used furniture are you getting a new warranty? Can any of this be verified? Does your insurance company company know and approve of this?
Q: What’s the year, make, and model? ▲
Some of the original designs of systems furniture are still floating around the market today…dating back to ’75, ‘72, and even ‘68! Most of the time you won’t have any idea when the used furniture you’re considering was produced. You should be aware that although named the same, products are re-engineered from time to time. Different series may not connect with each other, and parts often mix like oil and water. It’s not uncommon for manufacturers to have 3, 4, or 5 different product designs marketed under the same name. Technology has changed, progress has been made, and furniture does not get better with age!
Q: Are you getting a real savings, and a good deal? ▲
We all want the best price possible for purchases we make. Are you aware that the common price paid to buy back used furniture is between 3 and 8 cents on the dollar? A little paint and some fabric is a small investment the refurbishing seller makes to profit several times. The mark-up is staggering! At the very least, if you choose to assume the risks of being the second, third or even fourth owner, get a good deal - don’t pay 70% or 80% the cost of new furniture!
The bottom line is…if it’s not good enough for someone else, why should it be good enough for you and your company? Used furniture may look good, but usually it’s just plain worn out, which is why it’s been repurchased in the first place. Are you prepared to face those in your office who will be irritated and interrupted waiting for repairs while experiencing downtime? Before you can make the best long-term decision for your company you must get the facts, in writing. After all, it’s your money! |
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