Many manufacturers offer used CNC routers for 25 - 30% off the new price. They purchase routers from auctions, factory closeout sales, bankrupt companies, and businesses that no longer use their current equipment. Then they clean up the machines, replace any worn or broken parts, upgrade the controllers, and resell the refurbished routers.

For businesses seeking an inexpensive entry point to the technology, a used CNC router can be a good choice. However, if the router will get heavy usage, play a critical role in your production cycle, or need the latest technology, it makes sense to buy a new machine. The benefit to newer CNC routers is increased reliability and new technology. Manufacturers selling used equipment add new technology to pre-owned routers, but those costs will add up.

The warranty is critical when buying a used CNC router: refurbished machines should always include a one-year warranty – you simply can’t take the chance that something will break. You could spend even less money on an “as is” unit, but the quality is generally low and you will get little to no support.

If you do buy a used CNC router, make sure the vendor walks you through all of the upgrades and replacements made to the unit. Also make sure they will provide support for the system beyond the one-year warranty: manufacturers may not provide replacement parts such as control systems for on older models.