The next time someone tells you new equipment is “on the way,” ask them how long. Because these days, the answer is usually months, not weeks. We’re constantly hearing reports from developers in new construction that lead times for new transformers regularly exceed six months. In some cases, especially for medium voltage or custom builds, it’s closer to a year. Electric motors? Same story. A basic 200 HP motor that used to be in stock everywhere is now showing 20 to 30-week delivery timelines. And if you need something over 500 HP, good luck. You’re not just ordering a motor anymore, you’re entering a queue. So what’s going on? First, global supply chains never really recovered from the pandemic. A lot of raw materials, especially copper and silicon steel, are still tight. Those materials are critical to power distribution … [Read more...] about Used Equipment Beats the Clock
Industry News
How Tier 5 Emission Standards Impact the Industrial Diesel Engine Market
As environmental regulations continue to evolve, Tier 5 emission standards are poised to bring the next wave of change to the industrial diesel engine market. Although not yet finalized, discussions surrounding Tier 5 suggest even stricter limits on particulate matter (PM), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and greenhouse gas emissions—likely pushing manufacturers toward advanced aftertreatment systems, cleaner fuels, and hybrid-electric technologies. These changes are expected to impact everything from engine design and maintenance to equipment costs and market availability. Understanding the potential impact of Tier 5 regulations is critical for manufacturers, dealers, and end users alike. With increased compliance costs and new technology requirements on the horizon, businesses that plan ahead will be better positioned to remain … [Read more...] about How Tier 5 Emission Standards Impact the Industrial Diesel Engine Market
The On-Going Tariff War Against China
Over the past several months, the tariff landscape between the United States and China has been in a constant state of flux. What started as a dramatic escalation in early April dubbed “Liberation Day” by President Trump saw tariffs spike to unprecedented levels. At the peak, US duties on Chinese imports reached 145%. China responded with levies as high as 125% on American goods. The tension sent shockwaves through global markets and created headaches for manufacturers trying to plan around the uncertainty. After a few volatile weeks, both countries agreed to dial things back. Today, tariffs on Chinese goods have been reduced to 30%. Chinese tariffs on US exports now sit at 10%. That’s still historically high, but it marks a notable de-escalation from the brink of a full-blown trade freeze. Even with this softening, the tariff … [Read more...] about The On-Going Tariff War Against China
Perils of Renting Equipment: Hidden Fees & Long-Term Commitments
When a project calls for specialized machinery or heavy equipment, renting can seem like a smart, flexible solution. After all, why purchase a large asset for short-term use? But while rentals offer some upfront convenience, they’re often riddled with drawbacks that can cost your business time, money, and efficiency in the long run. From hidden fees to misaligned timelines and frustrating auto-renew clauses, equipment rentals come with plenty of pitfalls. Before you sign that rental agreement, make sure you're aware of the risks. That’s not to say rentals are never appropriate—but many businesses jump into rental agreements without fully understanding the fine print or the true cost of being locked into someone else’s schedule. What starts as a short-term solution can quickly spiral into long-term headaches, especially when … [Read more...] about Perils of Renting Equipment: Hidden Fees & Long-Term Commitments
The Quiet Boom in Industrial Auctions
If you have been around this industry the past few years, you already know what is happeningwith industrial auctions. This is not some brand new trend. The shift really started back in 2020 when COVID shut down in-person events and forced everything online. Since then, online auctions have not only filled the gap but have taken over. And five years later, the momentum has not slowed down. We are seeing more auctions, more listings, and a lot more bidders. Whether it is metalworking equipment, process machinery, or power systems, people are showing up ready to buy. The ease of bidding from your office or phone has brought a whole new wave of end users into the mix, and that is changing the game. At Surplus Record, we are seeing this play out daily. Auctioneers and dealers who post their sales and do eblasts with us are getting more … [Read more...] about The Quiet Boom in Industrial Auctions
