PROCESS Plant Network has written about the various factors involved in buying machinery directly from overseas, as opposed to sourcing them from local resellers.
Traditionally, manufacturers and metal workers purchased their machinery through local manufacturers, agents and resellers.
But tougher times means new ways of cutting costs need to be examined. Some metal shops have found it cheaper to bypass local reseller and buy their equipment directly from China or other low cost countries.
The lower costs come from cutting out the middleman’s commission, and lead times are shorter as the machines are shipped directly to the end user.
However, there are numerous pitfalls and problems in the process, and these should be addressed before deciding to go with the cheaper route.
Some machines get shipped with no safety guarding, requiring costly retrofitting. Sometimes the wiring is non-compliant with Australian electrical safety laws and need to be stripped and redone. The manuals can be highly unreliable, making operations and maintenance a hit-and-miss affair.
Help can also be difficult to get if operations are less than satisfactory. Manufacturers may be hard to get hold of, and local servicemen could be reluctant to help if they are not knowledgeable about the machines.
Process Plant Network says potential buyers need to be aware of these potential problems. They might need to have full knowledge of Australasian compliance issues and spend a few weeks in China or any other source country showing the manufacturer the ropes to making the machines suited for operation in Australia.
Buying locally from a reputable supplier could in the end result in both peace of mind and savings. The machines generally come wired to Australian electrical standards, and fitted with safety interlock and guarding. They can be tested, installed, commissioned, and supported by qualified technicians. Parts and warranties are also available and honoured.

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