Q: Why Lely Pre-Owned systems?
A: Whether making the switch to automation for the first time, or adding to your existing stable of robots, Lely Pre-Owned systems offer dairy producers access to the benefits of the Lely Advantage™ at significant savings from new pricing. The impact of advantages like improved efficiency, reduced waste, greater cost & yield predictability are compounded when the capital investment on equipment is reduced.
Q: What is the difference between New, Certified Pre-Owned and Used?
A: The most appropriate analogy comes from the automotive industry. Much like buying a car, there are three simple categories. New Lely robotic milking systems are “off the lot” and brand new to their owner, carrying a full factory warranty. “Certified Pre-Owned” systems, have been inspected, sanitized and reconditioned and certified back to the original standards set by the manufacturer. In the case of Lely CPO systems, these units come with the same Lely-backed, limited 12-month warranty as a new system. “Used” systems are sold “as-is” with variable levels of refurbishment by a Lely Center. The below chart details the differences between new, CPO and Used Lely robotic milking systems.
Q: What is the difference between Reconditioned, Refurbished and Used?
A: The quick answer is Reconditioned is best. The detailed answer is in how thoroughly the system has been inspected, cleaned, repaired, upgraded and whether or not this process results in certification by the original equipment manufacturer. Lely Certified Pre-Owned systems are reconditioned to the high standards set by Lely, either at their North American headquarters or by Authorized Lely Centers only. Because this process was developed in house and meets the extremely strict performance and quality standards of new systems, Lely certifies CPO systems performance like new, supplied with upgraded components which improve the performance of the product over the original A4. The reconditioning process, which was developed in house, meets the strict performance and quality standards of new systems. Lely even goes as far as to offer the same Lely-backed limited 12-month warranty as on a new system. As a result, they also have the greatest projected usage lives.
Refurbished systems may have undergone a limited inspection and restoration process but typically are not restored to factory new performance like CPO systems are. As a result, these units do not carry the same “new performance” certification from the original manufacturer. Warranties, if available, will be dependent on the age and condition of the system. Refurbished systems are a good solution for producers interested in a “medium-term” investment.
Used systems are sold in their current or “as-is” state, commonly without repairs or testing and without a warranty. They are ideal for producers looking for the lowest capital investment
Effectively when you see “Reconditioned” it indicates the highest degree of trust, confidence, performance and usage life.
Q:How long were Pre-Owned units in service?
A: Every Lely CPO system starts as a field-proven robot, with varying levels of usage. Regardless of time in the field or pounds milked, every Lely CPO system undergoes the same rigorous reconditioning and certification process to ensure it arrives in the hands of its new owner, performing at factory new standards, supplied with upgraded components which improve the performance of the product over the original A4. Effectively, the reconditioning process is so complete, a system with one year of service and one with seven would be virtually indistinguishable to the end user in their performance.
Q: Can I trust a Pre-Owned unit? How reliable are they?
A: Trust is the foundation Lely Certified Pre-Owned systems are built on. The reconditioning of every Lely Astronaut robotic milking system is performed either by Lely at our North American headquarters, in Pella, Iowa or by Authorized Lely Center only. With a Lely Certified Pre-Owned system, you can rest assured the reconditioning quality and performance standards are set with the dairy producer in mind. It is our mission to provide premium and reliable used equipment at a competitive price point.
Q: What does Lely’s reconditioning and certification process entail?
A: Reconditioning a Lely Astronaut robotic milking to performance certified to meet new equipment standards is a lengthy process, involving multiple technicians and continuous inspection. Every Lely CPO system undergoes a comprehensive reconditioning process including: sanitization or replacement of all milk contact components, inspection & verification of all electrical and mechanical components, installation of over 100 factory new parts, select hardware upgrades which exceed original equipment specification, and more. See the final inspection checklist for full details.
Q: What does support look like? Will I be able to get parts? What about software updates?
A: With Lely Certified Pre-Owned systems, you can count on the same level of support you would get buying new. Lely is so confident in the quality of CPO systems, they come standard with a Lely-backed 12-month limited warranty, fully eligible for service and support agreements from your local Lely Center. Technical Service Support technicians and Farm Management Support advisors at your Lely Center can help you get the most ROI out of your CPO system by establishing preventative maintenance routines, continuous improvement processes and recommending the appropriate cleaners and consumables. Additionally, all current and previous generation Lely CPO systems are eligible to receive the newest software updates as they become available.
Used systems are sold “as-is” and their eligibility for service and support agreements will be variable depending on their age, condition and refurbishment capabilities of the dealer offering the equipment.
Q: Who should consider Lely Pre-Owned systems?
A: The easy answer is, any dairy producer who wants to benefit from legendary Lely performance, reduce their labor, improve efficiency and target feed through the Lely Astronaut robotic milking system to optimize cow performance and feed costs, all at a lower price point. More specifically, Lely Pre-Owned systems are ideal for curious producers considering a switch to automation for the first time. Lely CPO systems are suited for any sized dairy, and can be a great way to expand or retrofit your existing dairy operation.
Q: Is financing available for Lely Pre-Owned systems?
A: As automated dairy systems have matured, become more common, and proven their worth over the last 30 years, private institutions have become increasingly willing to provide capital for their purchase. As Lely Certified Pre-Owned systems carry the same Lely-backed, limited 12-month warranty as a new system, it is also eligible for the same financing considerations as new equipment through Lely Finance. This includes the option of leasing Lely Certified Pre-Owned equipment.
Lely Finance offers unique and attractive in-house financing opportunities which provide producers a number of clear advantages over traditional financing. As an asset-based lender, Lely Finance offers several solution leveraging equipment, not your farm.