Resources

The sales comparison approach (SCA) estimates equipment value by analyzing recent sales of comparable machines and adjusting those prices to account for differences between the comps and the subject. It is the default valuation method for heavy equipment categories with active resale markets: Lenders, attorneys, and fleet owners rely on SCA-based appraisals because the method…

The cost approach determines equipment value by calculating replacement cost new (RCN) and subtracting all 3 forms of depreciation: It is 1 of 3 standard approaches in the machinery and equipment appraisal process, and the primary method when an asset has no active secondary market. Because the math always produces a number, credibility depends on…

A heavy equipment appraisal is a certified, written opinion of the value of machinery used in construction, agriculture, transportation, or industry, produced by a credentialed professional following the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP). The value an appraiser reports depends on the purpose: a lender sizing loan collateral needs a different value standard than…

Heavy equipment is a serious investment. If you’re in construction, agriculture, mining, or other industries, you already know this firsthand. Because these machines are the backbone of your operations. But have you ever stopped to think about what they’re really worth? That’s where people in my line of work…equipment appraisals…come into play. An appraisal is…

A working appraiser’s reference. Each category below covers what the machine does and what people call it. Where we’ve inspected the type on a real contractor fleet, you’ll see a field note with the year, model, hours, and value we appraised. Three fleets anchor most of the notes: Field Note Across three contractor fleet appraisals…