Which Machinery Brands Hold Their Resale Value Best?

Resale value is the part of total cost of ownership most buyers ignore — and it can swing the real cost of a machine by tens of thousands. Here is what holds value and why.

What drives resale value

• Brand — CAT, Komatsu, JLG and Genie hold value because the name carries a parts and support guarantee.
• Machine type — high-demand types like mid-size excavators and scissor lifts hold better than niche machines.
• Condition and documentation — a machine with a signed inspection report and service history resells far easier.
• Market — what is common in your region resells; what is exotic sits.

Buying with the exit in mind

When you buy, ask not just “what does it cost” but “what will it be worth in three years.” A premium brand that costs 20% more up front but holds 30% more at resale is often the cheaper machine. The flip side: a discounted machine in a thin market can be hard to sell at any price — so match the brand and type to what your local market actually trades. See the brand comparison and used vs new ROI.

Bottom line: resale value is set by brand, type and documentation. Buy brands and machines your market recognises, and keep the inspection report — it is your resale asset.