looking to get in

[squatty]

New to forum and was wondering if someone could point me in right direction for becoming a seller of grey market tractors. Need to start small.

 

[DavesTractor]

Welcome to the forum. Tell us a little more about yourself, and perhaps fill out your profile as that helps in that regard as well. That will gain you more useful responses.

 

[squatty]

Sorry Dave filled this thing out on a whim. I have updated my profile. However there is not much to tell. Look forward to talking with you more.

 

[gbirky]

I imported twice, just because I thought it would be "neat" to do it. The first time I got guys I knew to go in with me to get a 20' container. I got two tractors on that load, and I still have them. The second time I did some soliciting on the internet and got enough to go a second time along with 4 for myself. I made a deal with a mechanic friend of mine to do any required repairs and sell them. We split the profits.

We did well, but man is it a headache! I can't tell you the number of hours I spent on the telephone and e-mailing. If I didn't have a full time job, and a family to care for, I might do it again. But things have changed in the year and a half since I last did it. I imported only Yanmars, but it has since become more difficult to get good tractors in small volumes, and it has become more difficult to get parts.

Look at it as an adventure/hobby first. Then you won't be disappointed with the amount of time it takes just to arrange things.

 

[DavesTractor]

You might try Rick at Best Used . He is an honest guy and can help.

Your best bet would likely be to contact an existing operation that is far enough away to not be direct competition, but close enough to not kill you in freight, and go buy 4 of them to start with. Then see how it works. There is a steep learning curve, so start small and test the waters to see if it is a fit for your talents.

 

[squatty]

Dave I appreciate your help and reply.

thanks,
Squatty, nc

 

[stnickstoys]

I couldn't agree with Dave more. Start small and test your market. Don't forget, if you sold it, these people will expect you to be their parts and repair expert or go-to person as well so be prepared to support your sale afterwards. If you do that you will soon have references sending additional customers your way.
Nick