There seems to be a good range for the age of a used CNC machine. I feel it is from 4 – 10 years old. That is based on a machine that runs the typical 1000 hours of
spindle time per year.
The reasoning is this. If you are trying to sell a machine that is too new there might not be a large market of buyers for it. I’ve sold a machine that was just 1 year old. The problem was any company with enough money to buy it could get a brand new machine, with a full warranty, for just a little more money. Typical buyers of used machines are limited by funds, so they weren’t even in the running. They seller was in a distressed situation and had to sell for a loss.
With older machines there is always the question of condition. Sure, low hour machines in good condition can make even an older machine a good buy. But seller’s
should be aware that they don’t bring in a great price. Buyers have to be aware that they are buying something with used parts. And they have to be realistic to understand there is a good chance parts will need replaced.
Another thing to consider on older machines is that a high-quality manufacturer machine will typically maintain its capabilities for longer. A top notch machine at 15 years old could out perform a 10 year old machine built to lower standards. Although at some point the question of being able to find replacement parts becomes a concern. I’ve had to turn down 20 year old machines that ran well just because a buyer may not be able to find a board once it went bad. Buyers won’t take a chance on a machine of that age so the market for buying them disappears.