When it comes time to automate, companies have the choice buying a brand new robot or a used robot. While the option of a brand new robot may be tempting, it may not always be the best choice or easily available. Factors such as pre-existing robotic equipment and robot cost, greatly influence whether a company should buy a new or used robot. The increased demand for robotic automation has also created another factor in the new vs used robot debate and that is lead time. Many new robots have long lead times with some taking several months. High demand and supply chain disruptions have made it difficult for robotic manufactures to deliver new robots, making them less available.

Fortunately, there are many excellent alternatives on the second-hand robot market. Buyers can find high-quality used robots from the top robotic brands including KUKA. KUKA’s signature orange KR robots are some of the most advanced and innovative which is why they are quite popular, especially for automotive manufacturing. Their articulated robots are incredibly durable and well-built making them an excellent investment as used robots. Used KUKA robots provide many of the same benefits as new robots with the major advantage of a lower upfront cost. A used Kuka KR6 R900 can save buyers between 40% to 60%. Companies can automate for significantly less while still capturing benefits such as higher productivity, lower production costs, improved product quality, and faster cycle times.

Buying a used KUKA robot is a cost-effective way to automate without sacrificing on quality. There are many used KUKA robots for sale that are in good or refurbished condition. KUKA robots can operate for several years to decades. Often used KUKA robots are sold for reasons other than those related to the robot’s condition. Sellers may list their second-hand KUKA robot due to system upgrades, no longer having use for the six axis robot, or due to production changes.

Not only is investing in a used KUKA robot more affordable but it can also be easier to integrate and be familiar to your robot technicians. A used KUKA robot will integrate easily into a pre-existing robotic system. Companies can replace their KUKA KR-16 with another KR16 or the similar KR10 R1100. Replacing a robot with the same or similar model preserves the other equipment of a robot system as new robots may not be compatible. Additional training is not needed as your techs will already be familiar with the programming, operation, features, and maintenance, minimizing any system downtime.

Used KUKA robots can be purchased through Robots Done Right. RDR sells used KUKA KRC2 and KRC4 industrial robots. Popular KRC2 robots we sell include the KUKA KR6 and KR16. Used KUKA robots compatible with KRC4 controls available through RDR include the KUKA KR6 R900 and KR 10 R1100.

Robots Done Right also sells used KUKA robot parts. Buyers can purchase replacement KUKA teach pendants or spare parts to have on-hand for their used KUKA robot. In addition, Robots Done Right buys used KUKA robots and offers trade-ins. If there is a specific used KUKA robot you are looking for we can also help locate it for you.