Equipment Appraisal Blog | Understanding Machinery Appraisals

Keep on top of changes in the market by appraising oilfield equipment

Posted by Equipment Appraisal Services on Tue, Jul 31, 2018 @ 02:41 PM

When you work in the oil and gas industry, you know that market fluctuations can have a strong impact on your bottom line. As prices change, you decide what equipment But did you know that appraising oilfield equipment can help you make smart decisions for your company's future? Here's a quick overview of why it's important to have your oilfield equipment appraised regularly and how this information can provide strong benefits for your business.

Keep on top of changes in the market by appraising oilfield equipment

When market prices change, you may choose to put assets into or out of use based on a wide range of factors that impact cost and price. But when you don't know the value of your equipment, it can be very difficult to determine when that machinery should be put into action or held back to preserve value. But that's not the only area where your machinery values should be considered.

What about when the next big oilfield is discovered and you're in a good position to take advantage of the situation? If you need to quickly take advantage of the situation,  what assets can you leverage to ensure you can secure the financing you need for fast growth? A financial institution may not see the full value of your equipment or may take time to determine the value, costing you valuable days or weeks before you can take advantage of the opportunity. However, having a valuation report already on hand from a certified equipment appraiser allows the financial institution to move more quickly in approving your loan, giving you more time to position your company and start production.

Another area where equipment valuation can help in a boom is by providing you with a solid value for that particular piece of machinery. Instead of being gouged by an equipment sales rep who is inflating prices to take advantage of the situation, you can come to the negotiating table with a firm grasp of exactly what the equipment is worth. This allows you to negotiate from a position of strength, even though you may end up paying a slightly higher price instead of waiting on equipment to arrive from across the country.

Once you're on the oilfield working, can you sustain your production levels or will equipment failures cost you your profits? Many people are not aware of a very helpful aspect of equipment valuation. When your equipment is appraised, its value is based at least partially on its condition. That means the appraiser, who spends their time inspecting equipment, can often provide you with a good idea of where the machinery is having issues such as excessive wear, pressure issues and similar problems.

By appraising oilfield equipment regularly, it's much easier for you to make smart decisions about your business, no matter what the market may bear. But who should you have perform the equipment valuation? Though it may be tempting to simply request one from your local equipment dealer or use your last property tax assessment, keep in mind that these sources will not provide you with a solid valuation report that will hold up in legal, financial, insurance and tax circles. Make sure that the appraiser you use is certified, which will provide you with an honest, independent report of your equipment values. 

Tags: appraising oilfield equipment