Your Guide to Buying Heavy Machinery and Construction Equipment

The construction industry has experienced a remarkable surcharge in recent times. In countries like India which is in its developing stage, construction of infrastructure is happening at a very fast pace. With the boom in this industry, the demand for construction equipment which is also called heavy machinery or construction equipment has risen. Although these machineries fall under a single category, they are of various types according to their functionality. The construction industry needs huge investments and anyone new to this industry or planning to get into the construction industry needs to plan before investing in these heavy machinery. Multiple types, sizes, and functionalities from different brands make it very difficult for newcomers or existing buyers to choose the correct equipment.

To understand this better we need to first explain the types of heavy machinery available in the market and their uses. This will ease the understanding of the machine and its application.

Types of Heavy Machinery and Construction Equipment

Every machine is different from the other and has its unique functionality.  Identifying the job type will accordingly fulfill the requirements. Choosing the right type of machinery will ensure efficiency, optimal performance, and success of the project. The following are the main categories of heavy equipment:

Earthmoving equipment: 

These types of machines are generally used for excavation, digging, leveling, and moving large amounts of earth or debris. Common types of earthmoving equipment are:

• Excavators: Excavators are used for multiple purposes. They come in different sizes from mini, small, medium, large, extra-large, and long reach. They are used for digging, trenching, lifting heavy materials, and clearing grounds.
• Bulldozers: This machine is used to push large quantities of soil, sand, and other materials. They are particularly used to clear and level land and get it ready for new construction.
• Backhoe loaders: This machine is a combination of a loader and excavator. It is used for digging, trenching, and lifting heavy materials.
• Graders: They are used to level ground ideally used in leveling roads and pavements where precision is required.
• Skid steer Loaders: These are compact machines usually preferable for tight and smaller spaces. They are used for digging, grading, and lifting purposes. They are useful in urban landscapes for their versatility and maneuverability.

Material Handling Equipment

These types of machines are used to move, lift, load, and unload materials in construction sites. Common types of Material Handling equipment are:

• Cranes: Cranes are used to move heavy materials or equipment around construction sites. They are of three types- tower cranes, mobile cranes, and crawler cranes.
• Forklifts: Forklifts are used to lift and move materials like pallets, construction materials, heavy loads, etc over short distances.
• Telehandlers: They are also known as telescopic handlers and generally are a combination of cranes and forklifts. Their telescopic boom allows them to lift materials to great heights.

Road-Building Equipment: 

These types of machines are essential for constructing and maintaining highways, roads, and other infrastructural projects. They are equipped with precision and efficiency so they are used in paving surfaces, laying foundations, and ensuring durability.

• Asphalt Pavers: These machines are used to lay asphalt on road surfaces. They ensure smooth and even surfaces that help to maintain the durability of roads.
• Rollers: Road rollers are used to compact soil, sand, or asphalt in road construction. They apply pressure creating a solid and stable foundation for roads and other construction projects.
• Cold Planers: Cold planers are used to remove the top layers of an existing road surface. Commonly used to repair or resurface roads, remove damaged layers, and prepare the surface for the new layer of asphalt.

Material Transport Equipment: 

These machines are used to transport heavy construction material from one place to another reducing delays. Common types of Material Transport equipment are:

• Dump Trucks: Dump trucks are used to transport large quantities of materials such as soil, sand, gravel, and construction debris from one place to another. They have a hydraulic operated bed which helps to unload materials quickly.
• Belt Conveyors: These types of machines are used to transport materials over longer distances. They are generally used in mining areas and quarries. They eliminate the use of manual labor to move materials from one location to another.

Factors to Consider When Buying Heavy Machinery in India

We have got a better understanding of different types of construction machinery and their uses. We have to now examine the factors affecting the buying decision of these heavy machines. This decision is very crucial, saving time, money, and effort.

Project requirement: The type of machine you need depends on the type of construction to be done. For example, if you are working in a residential or commercial building then you need material handling and earthmoving machinery. For large projects, cranes and excavators can be used.

1. Budget: These types of machinery are very expensive and require proper planning before buying.  It is essential to set the budget according to the financial capacity and scope of work. Factors like operational cost, repair, maintenance, and fuel consumption fall under budgeting.
2. Brand and Quality: There are many brands like BEML, JCB, Caterpillar, Komatsu, Volvo, etc in the market. High-quality machines will reduce downtime, durability, and sustainability.
3. New vs Old Machine: The machine can be acquired new or old. New machines come with warranties and new technologies but they are expensive whereas old machines are more affordable but have gone through wear and tear.
4. Financing options: There are different financing companies available that provide financing for these heavy machines. Leasing or renting opportunities are also available for these types of machinery. Different billing and delivery location options are also available.
5. Insurance: Unlike other machines or vehicles these heavy machinery & constructions  also require insurance. There are many insurance companies which cover this type of machinery and equipment. Premium and tenure vary from company to company.
6. After-sale service: It should be kept in account how integrated their service centers are and the quality of their post-sale services. Availability of service centers at a convenient location is required. A good service agreement ensures the repair and maintenance of parts when needed.

Conclusion

In India, one has to consider different considerations before buying these machines. It is very important to consider all the factors, irrespective of the size of the projects, to make a wise decision. Careful thinking irrespective of small-scale or large-scale infrastructure is necessary. Choosing the right machine is very important to get optimal performance and long-term profitability.