The market for pre-owned planters is experiencing a contraction, with inventories on Tractor Zoom dropping by 20% this year alone, leading to a staggering 50% decrease over the last two years. This trend is primarily driven by inflationary pressures affecting planter prices, which have in turn dampened retail demand. While asking prices and auction values for these used planters have stabilized, prospective buyers may need to act swiftly due to the potential for scarcity.
It has become increasingly challenging to find late-model used planters. Locating a model with specific desired features now requires more time and effort. The trend of enhancing existing planters with cutting-edge technology is gaining traction. Components such as electric drives and precision technology are becoming significant factors that affect the valuation of used planters, complicating price comparisons among similar models.
In a recent discussion, industry experts Dave Mowitz and Andy Campbell explored the elements that influence the value of used planters. They emphasized that integrating the right technology can greatly enhance success in seed placement, bed preparation, pre-emergence fertilizer application, and data connectivity. The robust steel construction of modern planters not only extends their usable lifespan but also offers numerous opportunities for upgrades with the latest technological innovations.
Meet Andy Campbell
Andy Campbell serves as the director of insights at Tractor Zoom. With a background as an engineer, professor, and entrepreneur, he is dedicated to connecting data with actionable insights for farmers, dealers, auctioneers, and agricultural lenders. He remains actively involved in his family farm in Iowa.
Meet Dave Mowitz
Dave Mowitz has a rich history with Successful Farming, where he worked from 1982 until 2022, covering equipment trends across various platforms. Now retired, he continues to contribute as an editor and podcast host. Mowitz has roots in a family farm in Nebraska, of which he is now a co-owner.
Tractor Zoom was founded in 2017 with the mission of providing farmers and decision-makers access to current equipment values, enabling them to make informed, data-driven choices regarding heavy machinery.
