Before you sell, it helps to know what you'll actually take home. These are the questions sellers ask about fees and costs, with straight answers.
How much do dealers and brokers charge to sell equipment?
Traditional consignment and brokerage commissions usually run 10–20% of the sale price, depending on the machine's value and the services included. Higher-value machines often get a lower percentage. Ask exactly what's included: marketing, storage, cleanup, inspections and paperwork.
What do auctions charge sellers?
Auction houses charge sellers a commission or flat lot fee, and sometimes extra for transport, cleaning, repairs or premium placement. Buyers pay a separate buyer's premium, which lowers what they're willing to bid. Read the consignment agreement closely for minimums, reserve fees and no-sale charges.
What does it cost to sell on EquipMarket?
- Free DIY listing: $0 to list and no commission when you sell it yourself.
- Managed listing: a 6–10% commission, charged only if the machine sells. It includes marketing, buyer screening, and a free Equipment Condition Report and Bill of Sale.
- Optional documents for DIY sellers: a Condition Report ($99), a Bill of Sale ($59), or both as a bundle ($149).
Details are on our Sell page.
What other costs should I plan for?
- Prep and cleaning. A pressure wash and small fixes such as lights, seats and leaking fittings often pay for themselves.
- Inspection. A third-party condition report builds buyer confidence.
- Transport. Who pays for hauling is negotiable. Settle it before you agree on a price.
- Lien payoff. If the machine is financed, the loan balance comes out of the proceeds. See selling equipment with a loan.
- Taxes. Selling business equipment can trigger depreciation recapture. Ask your tax professional.
How can I keep more of the sale price?
- Price from real data. Our Value Estimator keeps you from leaving money on the table.
- Show complete service records. Documented machines tend to sell faster and closer to asking.
- Advertise that financing is available, so more buyers can afford your asking price.
- Answer buyer questions ahead of time with clear photos, video and a condition report.
Is the lowest-fee option always the best?
Not always. A free listing nets the most if you have the time to handle calls and showings. If your time is better spent running jobs, a managed listing's commission can be worth it, especially when it brings in pre-qualified buyers who close faster.
How do I apply for equipment financing through EquipMarket?
Financing is built into EquipMarket for buyers and sellers. Buyers can pre-qualify through our lending partner, Southend Capital, with one short application. Terms run 24 to 72 months, and you can choose an Equipment Finance Agreement (finance-to-own), a traditional lease, a 10% fair-market-value lease or a $1 buyout lease. Sellers benefit too: a buyer who is already approved can close quickly and pay in full.
Apply for financing now → or compare financing options and estimate a payment. Rates and approval are set by the lender based on your credit, time in business and the machine.
Compare your machine with live inventory: excavators, backhoes, motor graders.
