Choosing the right equipment strategy for your first business: New, used, or rental? #MyfirstBobcat
If you’re buying your first piece of equipment, one of the biggest questions is simple:
Should you buy new, buy used, or rent?
The answer for most small businesses isn’t just one, says Adam Dahmer, Sales Manager at Bobcat of Marion. ‘It’s a combination that helps you control costs, stay flexible, and take on the right jobs as you grow.’
We’ll help you build a plan that works for where you are today - and where you want to go.
New equipment: A strong foundation for your business
New Bobcat equipment gives you reliability, warranty protection, and the confidence to take on jobs without second-guessing your machine.
'For many first-time buyers, this becomes the primary machine their business is built around,' says Adam.
Best fit if you:
Need dependable equipment for day-to-day work
Want predictable performance and minimal downtime
Are planning for long-term growth
Used Bobcat equipment: A smart way to get started
Used equipment can be a great entry point if you’re working within a tighter budget or want to ease into ownership.
Explains Adam, ‘It allows you to start taking on jobs and generating revenue - without the higher upfront investment of new equipment.’
Best fit if you:
Want to keep initial costs lower
Are just getting started and building cash flow
Need a secondary or backup machine
Used Bobcat equipment: A smart way to get started
Used equipment can be a great entry point if you’re working within a tighter budget or want to ease into ownership.
Explains Adam, ‘It allows you to start taking on jobs and generating revenue - without the higher upfront investment of new equipment.’
Best fit if you:
Want to keep initial costs lower
Are just getting started and building cash flow
Need a secondary or backup machine
Bobcat Rental equipment: Take on more jobs without the commitment
‘Most successful small businesses don’t rely on just one approach,’ says Adam. ‘They build their operation step-by-step.’
Start with a primary Bobcat machine, often financed or leased
Add used equipment as the business grows
Use Bobcat rentals to expand capabilities and take on new types of work
This approach helps you:
Keep payments manageable
Avoid overextending early
Stay flexible as your business evolves