IronClad Assurance helps farmers buy and sell with confidence

Posted by IronPlanet on Feb 27, 2012 2:56:00 AM

Buying and selling online is an easy and convenient way to get a great deal on just about any product. However, many buyers are a bit wary of buying high-priced items like agricultural equipment online, because they can't quite tell if it's in working order.

There are many auction websites on the internet that allow farmers to buy and sell used agricultural equipment, but IronPlanet sets itself apart through IronClad Assurance. Auctions that are marked with this symbol mean that the item has been independently verified by one of IronPlanet's inspectors.

What that means is the buyer doesn't have to sit there and guess whether the item is good or not. They can simply click on the symbol, view the inspection report and quickly learn everything there is to know about the item. This is especially important for farmers, who frequently deal with complex pieces of machinery with many moving parts. A piece of equipment may technically be functioning, but have a host of minor problems that would be beneficial to know about.

IronClad Assurance doesn't necessarily mean that the product is in flawless condition. IronPlanet auctions feature equipment of all types, including those that may have some problems. What it does mean, however, is that the buyer will know about these problems ahead of time. If the buyer receives the item and finds something that wasn't covered in the inspection report, they can get their money back.

This creates an environment that is beneficial to both buyers and sellers. Those who are wary about buying expensive agricultural equipment over the internet have a right to be, as many sites don't have any kind of independent verification for the items that are sold. While these sites may offer recourse to those who get a faulty item, it can be an exhaustive process, and there's no guarantee that the buyer will be reimbursed. With such large amounts of money at stake, it's natural to be cautious.

The system helps sellers as well. Because buyers are bidding with confidence, the seller benefits from the higher prices paid for the vehicles and equipment. In addition, this service comes at no extra cost to the seller. An inspector from IronPlanet will come to the vehicle and appraise it. Once the item sells, IronPlanet can even handle the transportation as well.

When an inspector visits to look at a vehicle, it's not simply their opinion. IronPlanet's team of 350 inspectors have an average of 23 years of experience in the heavy equipment industry. All vehicles are measured on a set of standards that is the same for all vehicles. The system also includes an oil analysis that can provide detailed information about contamination, wear, and other possible issues.

Buying online is a great way for farmers to get a great deal. It's also an excellent way for those looking to sell used agricultural equipment reach a large number of prospective buyers. Yet doing this on a site with no inspection reports creates a large number of needless hassles for both buyers and sellers.

IronPlanet's IronClad Assurance presents an easy way to bring peace of mind to the online auction process, which is important when dealing with expensive items such as tractors, combine harvesters or compact truck loaders. With IronClad Assurance and fully detailed inspection reports, buyers know that what they see is what they get, allowing them to bid with confidence.

Topics: In the News