Maximising machinery value: The role of farm sheds

Machinery is the backbone of farming operations, yet the elements pose a significant threat to their longevity and functionality.

Now Buildings Director, Nick Walker, shares why investing in a dedicated machinery shed can yield substantial cost savings for businesses: “Whether you’re looking to protect your machinery, maintain your equipment or maintain the value of your farming equipment for resale, a machinery shed is a no-brainer.”

Ready when you need it

Having machinery and equipment stored in a shed ensures it’s always ready for use when you need it.

Consider the financial implications of machinery downtime.

By housing your machinery in a dedicated shed, you gain the advantage of servicing and cleaning it even during bad weather.

When bad weather hits, and outdoor work comes to a standstill, your machinery remains protected, allowing you to utilise this downtime productively.

With regular maintenance, your equipment stays in optimal condition, ensuring seamless operation when duty calls.

Protection from the elements

Australia's climate can be unforgiving, ranging from scorching heat to torrential rain and everything in between.

Extended exposure to sunlight can lead to heat damage, causing overheating and premature wear on crucial components.

Conversely, rain, cold, and moisture can invite corrosion and rust, deteriorating machinery over time.

A dedicated machinery shed provides a shield against these elements, preserving the integrity of your equipment.

Extended maintenance intervals

Proper maintenance is essential for the smooth operation of machinery. However, when left outdoors, machinery is susceptible to accelerated wear and tear, necessitating more frequent maintenance and repairs. By housing your equipment in a dedicated shed, you mitigate these risks, allowing for longer intervals between maintenance, services, and replacements.

This translates to reduced downtime and lower upkeep costs in the long run.

Growing up on a farm himself, Mr Walker knows this from experience and adds “You will save significantly on replacement parts if you keep your machinery stored in a dedicated machinery shed, undercover and out of the weather."

Enhanced cleanliness

Cleanliness is not merely a matter of aesthetics; it is integral to the proper functioning of machinery.

Dirt and debris accumulated during operation can obscure signs of wear and impending issues, leading to unexpected breakdowns.

Storing machinery in a dedicated shed keeps it clean and free from external contaminants, facilitating easier inspection and maintenance.

Organisational efficiency

A cluttered workspace can impede productivity and increase the likelihood of accidents.

A dedicated machinery shed provides a designated space for equipment storage, fostering organisational efficiency.

With everything in its rightful place, locating and accessing machinery becomes effortless, especially in settings with multiple operators.

“If your business relies on the use of multiple machines and operators, it’s even more important to make sure your farming equipment is kept safe and organised in a dedicated machinery shed. This will save you valuable time on a day-to-day basis.”

Optimise resale values

There’s another compelling reason to invest in a dedicated machinery shed: the potential for increased resale value.

Machinery stored in dedicated sheds garner greater interest from prospective buyers due to superior condition and reliability.

Buyers on AuctionsPlus are discerning, seeking equipment that has been well-maintained and protected from environmental damage.

Machinery stored in sheds is more likely to meet these criteria, thereby commanding higher bids and achieving better resale values.

By safeguarding your machinery in a dedicated shed, you not only preserve its operational efficiency but also enhance its marketability in the competitive landscape of online auctions.

Mr Walker highlighted that the cost of depreciating farming equipment due to severe weather or prolonged exposure far exceeded the initial investment in a shed.

“It’s not uncommon for farmers to have hundreds of thousands of dollars of farming equipment wasting away, while a high-quality shed is just a fraction of the price,” he said.