Purchasing lab equipment is similar to buying a car in that there are numerous kinds and models to pick from and a range of sellers. You also have the option of acquiring new equipment or purchasing old equipment to save money. While there are some hazards to buying secondhand, understanding what to look for and what questions to ask will help you minimize them. Before buying lab equipment like ICP MS instruments, here are some things that every lab management should think about.
- Identify The Equipment You’ll Require
When you’re looking for lab equipment, you need to know precisely what you’re looking for. Consider whether you require a specific brand or model, as well as which characteristics are necessary for your lab’s study. Before you start shopping, you should have a clear idea of what you want and need.
- Determine Which Vendors Are Available to You
Manufacturers and third-party providers are among the lab equipment dealers, as are online auction sites. When you buy straight from the manufacturer, you’re usually getting new equipment with a guarantee and service contract. The manufacturer may also provide discounted prices on discontinued, used, or demo units. One of the most significant advantages of buying directly from the manufacturer is that they know everything there is to know about their instruments and can provide the most information and assistance.
- Inquire About Demonstrations
If you’re thinking about buying something from a particular source, request a demonstration of the equipment. This allows you to observe the equipment in action and learn how it works. This will be apparent if one choice is significantly more challenging to utilize during the demonstration than another. It is not easy for you to buy a car without first taking it for a test drive, do the same with your lab equipment.
- Work Out a Deal with The Vendors
You can utilize the quotations you’ve gotten from multiple vendors to bargain. You should never accept list pricing for lab equipment; instead, bargain as if you were buying a car. If one company offers you a lower price, tell the others that you can acquire it for a lower price from another retailer.
- Inquire About Contract Terms
Typically, service contracts are acquired as an add-on. Even after warranties have expired, anything could go wrong with your equipment, whether new or secondhand. If you have a service contract, instead of paying for a contractor to come out and fix your equipment when it breaks down, you pay a monthly cost regardless of whether something goes wrong or not. In essence, this can save you money if you have a lot of difficulties, but it can also cost you money if nothing goes wrong. Obtaining a service contract is thus more advantageous when purchasing old equipment.
Remember to include the cost of consumables in the total cost of ownership. Calculate how much money you’ll spend onICP MS instruments, dependent on whether you buy new or used. When purchasing lab equipment, the most significant thing you can do is examine the decision in the same manner, you would when purchasing a new car. Make a list of benefits and draw up a budget plan.
