How To Avoid Buyer’s Remorse When Buying A Portable Rollformer

Thinking about buying a portable rollformer? Here’s how to avoid buyer’s remorse and make the right investment for your business. Hey, this is Rick from New Tech Machinery. If you’re in the market for a portable rollformer, there’s a lot to consider before making that purchase. In this video, we’ll walk you through what to think about ahead of time so you can avoid regret and make sure the machine you choose actually works for your business.

First, actually read the machine materials. One NTM customer almost bought the wrong machine, thinking the SSR could run a 20-inch panel, when it actually maxes out its 16 inches. His account manager caught the mistake and steered him to the SSH instead. The specs were on the quote and the website, but he didn’t take the time to read them carefully. The takeaway: don’t skim. Read the brochures, quotes, and spec sheets carefully and ask questions if you’re unsure. We provide everything you need, but it’s up to you to use the resources, whether it’s information on our website, videos and articles in our Learning Center, or quotes from account managers.

Next, ask questions early and often. We’d rather answer 100 questions upfront than hear from you months later that the machine doesn’t do what you expected. Whether it’s coil width, profile compatibility, accessories, or power needs, don’t leave details unchecked. There are no bad questions. We want you to know exactly what you’re getting and what you’re not.

Next, read what you’re signing. It sounds obvious, but many people skip this step. Read what you’re signing, quotes, contracts, warranties, and purchase orders, including key info like lead times, payment terms, what’s included, what’s not, and our cancellation policies. Take five or 10 minutes to double check the price, profile, voltage, and accessories. If something’s unclear, don’t guess, ask.

Next up, make sure it’s the right rollformer. Make sure the machine fits your needs, both now and later. Buying a five-inch gutter machine just as six-inch gutters take off in your area, that’s buyer’s remorse. Study your market and consider what profiles will you run? How often will you use them? Does the machine need to be mobile or stay in one place? Do you have trained operators and service capability? Not every contractor needs the most advanced machine, and not every job suits a basic model. If you’re unsure, talk to an account manager. They’ll help you match your machine to your business.

Next, understand the accessories and setup. Accessories like reel stands, run out stands, coil cradles, and shears can make a big difference in your workflow, but not all accessories will work with every machine or profile. Be sure you know what’s included, what you’ll need to buy separately, and how you want your machine configured before it ships. Getting it right up front means less downtime and more production when it arrives.

Next, have a plan before you buy a portable rollformer. Like the segue launch in the early 2000s, hype doesn’t guarantee success. Without a clear market need, even great products can fall flat. So ask yourself, do you already have a customer base? Is there a demand for metal roofing or gutters in your area? Where do you want your business to be in a few years? If you’re planning to expand into siding, you’ll need more than just a standing seam roofing machine. If you expect heavy chop and drop volume, you may want a machine with a hydraulic shear, like the SSH or SSQ2. Don’t underbuy or overbuy. Match your machine to your current and future business goals.

Finally, portable rollformer training. Would you fly a plane without taking lessons first? Owning a machine you don’t know how to use is no different. It takes training to properly load coil, run the controller, make adjustments, and maintain your investment. All new machine owners can receive free training at our facility in Aurora, Colorado, or pay for onsite training. Bring your whole crew, it’s worth the flight and hotel to ensure your team is ready to run the machine right.

So what’s the takeaway? Buying a portable rollformer is a big investment, and making the right choice comes down to knowing your needs and goals and training your crew. Take the time to research your options, ask the right questions, and partner with a manufacturer that will support you after the sale.

To learn more, check out the full article, linked right here. Thanks for watching, and we’ll see you in the next video.