Industrial machinery FAQ including buying selling shipping financing and inspections

Industrial Machinery Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to the most common questions about buying machinery, selling used equipment, trade-ins, financing, inspections, shipping logistics, auctions, and more. Sterling Machinery Exchange has helped manufacturers, job shops, schools, and fabricators buy and sell machinery since 1954.

Buying Machinery

Do you sell both new and used machinery?
Yes. Sterling Machinery sells both new and used machinery. Browse our inventory here:
Used Machinery
New Machinery
If you don't have the machine I am looking for, can you locate one?
Yes. With decades of industry experience we can often help locate machinery that matches your capacity, size, brand, or production requirements.
Can you help me choose the right machine?
Yes. Tell us your material type, thickness, part size, production volume, and timeline and we can recommend machines that fit your application.
How fast can I get a quote?
Quotes can often be provided quickly if you include machine type, capacity requirements, and your timeline.
Do you provide machine specifications and details?
Yes. Most listings include specifications, photos, and sometimes video demonstrations.

Selling Machinery

Do you purchase machinery?
Yes. You can submit machines for evaluation here:
Sell Machinery
Do you take trade-ins?
Yes. Trade-ins can reduce the cost of upgrading to a new machine.
Do you buy entire plants or just individual machines?
Both. Sterling buys single machines, multiple machines, or complete plant closures.
What information should I send when selling a machine?
Helpful information includes:
  • Machine make and model
  • Photos
  • Serial number if available
  • Location of the machine
  • Any tooling or accessories included

Machinery Financing

Do you offer financing?
Yes. Visit our financing page here:
Machinery Financing & Leasing
Can used machines be financed?
In many cases yes, depending on the machine and buyer qualifications.
Can multiple machines be financed together?
Often yes for qualified buyers purchasing multiple machines or equipment packages.

Shipping, Loading & Logistics

Can Sterling Machinery help with machine shipping?
Yes. We can help coordinate loading and shipping planning for machinery purchases.
What affects machinery shipping costs?
Shipping cost depends on:
  • Machine weight and dimensions
  • Origin and destination
  • Loading requirements
  • Forklift or crane needs
Do you ship machinery nationwide?
Yes. Sterling Machinery serves buyers nationwide from California headquarters.

Machine Inspections & Videos

Can I inspect machines under power?
Many machines can be inspected during business hours by appointment.
Can you send videos of machines running?
Yes. Videos are often available and many machines are featured onMachineryTube.

General Questions

Do you sell machine parts?
No. Sterling Machinery sells new and used machinery only.
Do you rebuild machines?
No.
Do you rent machines?
Machines may be rented locally depending on availability.
Is the Sterling Machinery website updated frequently?
Yes. Inventory changes regularly as machines are bought and sold.