Looking to sell your used plastic machines? Whether you’re upgrading your shop floor or simply freeing up space, finding the right marketplace can make all the difference in turning idle equipment into cash. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top platforms and strategies to list and sell your pre-owned injection molding machines quickly and profitably.
1. Industry-Specific Equipment Marketplaces
Specialized marketplaces attract serious buyers who know exactly what they want.
- Plastics Machinery Exchange
A go-to site for North American buyers and sellers of injection molders. Detailed equipment specs and photos help your listing stand out. - MachineTools.com
Features a dedicated plastics section; it’s well-trafficked by manufacturing plants and equipment dealers. - EquipNet
A global asset-management firm that lists pre-owned industrial machinery, including injection molders, with robust auction and direct-sale options.
Tip: Include clear photos of controls, molds, and any wear areas, plus machine serial/model numbers, to build buyer confidence.
2. General Industrial Marketplaces
For broader exposure, consider diversified industrial equipment sites:
- eBay Industrial & Scientific
Ideal for smaller machines or lower-priced units. eBay’s auction format can sometimes drive prices above market value when multiple buyers compete. - Bid on Equipment
Hosts both auctions and classified ads, reaching buyers in dozens of countries. - Alibaba
If you’re open to exporting your machine, Alibaba’s massive user base can unlock international leads.
Tip: Be crystal-clear on shipping logistics—machine weight, dimensions, and whether you’ll handle crating or loading.
3. Equipment Dealers and Brokers
If you prefer a hands-off approach, equipment dealers and brokers can manage the sale from listing to shipping:
- Local Machinery Dealers
Dealers often maintain waiting lists of buyers looking for specific models and can sell on consignment. - Industrial Auction Houses
Great for selling multiple machines at once; they handle marketing, inspection, and bidding events. - Independent Brokers
Charge a commission (typically 5–15%) but can tap into niche buyer networks for higher sale prices.
Tip: Vet your dealer or broker by asking for recent sales history, references, and their preferred commission structure.
4. Industry Associations & Trade Publications
Tap into print and digital resources that cater specifically to plastics professionals:
- Plastics News Classifieds
Both online and in-print options; readers are industry insiders actively seeking equipment. - Society of Plastics Engineers (SPE) Marketplace
Post classifieds to reach SPE members globally. - Local Trade Journals
Many regions have manufacturing newsletters or magazines with classifieds sections.
Tip: Ads in trade publications often include a longer lead time (2–4 weeks to publish), so plan ahead if you’re on a tight timeline.
5. Online Forums & Social Media Groups
Engaging directly with the plastics community can help you connect with end users and small shops:
- LinkedIn Groups
Groups like “Plastic Injection Molding Professionals” or “Plastics Manufacturing” allow you to post equipment-for-sale listings and engage with buyers. - Facebook Marketplace & Groups
Search local and regional “industrial equipment” groups—these can yield quick leads for nearby buyers. - Reddit (r/PlasticMolding, r/Manufacturing)
While not a traditional sales channel, posting “WTT” (want to trade/sell) can attract hobbyists or smaller converters.
Tip: Always follow each group’s rules on commercial postings, and include a link back to your more detailed listing on a marketplace or your company site.
6. Your Own Website & Email Newsletter
Don’t underestimate the power of your own digital real estate:
- Dedicated Equipment Page
Create a “Used Equipment for Sale” page on your company site, optimized around the keyword sell your used plastic machines. - Email Blasts
Notify past customers and newsletter subscribers when you have a machine for sale—these warm leads often convert more quickly.
Tip: Include a clear call-to-action (“Contact us for a quote,” “Schedule a site visit”) and an inquiry form to capture buyer details.
7. Tips for Maximizing Sale Price
- Perform Basic Maintenance
Clean the machine, top up fluids, and replace worn hoses or filters—small investments can justify higher asking prices. - Gather Documentation
Provide maintenance logs, parts manuals, and electrical schematics to demonstrate reliability. - Offer Inspection Opportunities
Invite serious buyers to your facility or provide a live video walkthrough to showcase machine condition. - Flexible Payment & Financing
Partner with equipment financiers to offer lease-to-own or installment plans that broaden your buyer pool.
Conclusion
Selling your pre-owned injection molding machines doesn’t have to be a headache. By leveraging a mix of specialized marketplaces, broad industrial platforms, brokers, trade associations, social media, and your own digital channels, you can reach the right buyers and sell your used plastic machines for the best possible price. Ready to get started? Choose the platforms that align with your timeline, price expectation, and desired level of hands-on involvement—and watch your idle equipment turn into working capital.