Does all Equipment Require a Bill of Sale?

Although you are not necessarily obligated to produce a bill of sale when selling equipment, utilizing one to transcribe the arrangement is wise when transferring anything with more copious than usual sale amounts. When taking the extra precaution to furnish a written record of the transaction, many legal repercussions that could arise will have sufficient proof of sale terms and transfer of ownership to adequately demonstrate to a court should a dispute come up. Doing so will protect the seller from any liability involved with the equipment sold after it changes hands and spelling out the agreement for both parties to inspect before signatures are endorsed and money exchanged. There are many different types of equipment in which you could employ this particular bill of sale to ensure proper documentation:

• Home Appliances include refrigerators, dishwashers, stoves/ovens, clothes washers/dryers, and smaller kitchen appliances.
• Outdoor Equipment – Lawn maintenance equipment, agriculture machinery, outdoor grills.
• Power Tools – Generators, air compressors, power saws, hand tools, and storage solutions.
• Business or Office Electronics – Photocopiers, printers, scanners, binders, filing cabinets, and fax machines.
• Audio/Visual Equipment – Receivers, speakers, staging equipment, DJ equipment, and musical instruments.
• Hobby Implements – Sports, camping, hiking, fishing, and diving equipment.

How to Sell Used Equipment

Step 1 – Inspect the Item

Thoroughly examine the piece of equipment for any issues that may need to be repaired or touched up. Depending on the item, the visible condition may require slight improvements or repairs. What may be acceptable for the appearance of a lawnmower or other outdoor working tools may not be as presentable for a refrigerator to a potential buyer. You will want to double-check that the device is in satisfactory working order and make necessary repairs before advertising the equipment.

Step 2 – Develop a Viable Advertisement

Compose an in-depth description of the sale item, listing all identifying information such as the year it was manufactured, the manufacturer, model, and serial number. You also want to list all specs associated with the equipment, dimensions, and any issues or defects it may have. Take 5-10 quality photos of the item in a well-lit environment, focusing on several angles while taking close-up shots to highlight various components or features. Research similar items for sale to evaluate a realistic listing price; you can check your local classifieds for comparable equipment. You can also check online for related listings on Craigslist or eBay to establish pricing that is competitive with your regional market. Ensure to include updated contact information in your ad so that possible buyers can inquire.

Step 3 – Where to List Your Promotional Material

Publicize your advertisement locally in print via area newspapers and regional classifieds circulars. Distribute flyers on bulletin boards where possible buyers may frequent. For example, if you are attempting to sell fishing equipment, you can post flyers at bait shops where those who attend may be interested. Promote your listing on online resources such as Craigslist or eBay. This can attract more potential buyers from near and even slightly outside your market area.

Step 4 – Finalize the Purchase

Once you receive an interest in the equipment purchase, you will want to schedule a visit to inspect the item and close the sale. If possible, arrange to meet in a safe public place convenient for both the buyer and yourself. If the purchase requires large amounts of money to be exchanged, insist that you meet at the buyer’s bank or credit union to make the exchange to avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Once an accord has been made, you fill out the bill of sale, endorse the document, and exchange the funds for the purchased equipment.

Equipment Bill of Sale Form