Beginning Farmer & Land Access
Used Equipment Inspection Checklist
A checklist for inspecting used farm equipment before purchase. Use it on the lot to spot wear, leaks, and safety issues and to record what you find.
ChecklistBeginning Farmer & Land AccessFree PDF
What is on this checklist
- Serial number and ownership papers
- Overall frame condition
- Leaks under the machine
- Tires or tracks wear
- Hydraulic hoses and fittings
- Guards and shields present
- Lights and controls working
- Maintenance records offered
- Test run results
How to use this checklist
Fill in the farm, date and your name, then walk the job with the sheet in hand. A habit of five minutes on this list tends to catch small problems early.
Where to check the details
This sheet is a general template, so confirm specifics with your own manuals, labels and local rules. For current official guidance, start with OSHA and eXtension.
For more in this area, see the farm finance explained. Between chores, farm.FM has farm humor, including Ranch Equipment for Sale Advertised as Like New Except for the Fire Damage and Missing Engine, and agribusiness farm stories.