If you’re looking to sell your vending machine, you’ll want to maximize your profit while ensuring a smooth transaction. Whether upgrading, downsizing, or exiting the vending business, following these steps will help you sell your vending machine quickly and efficiently.
1. Create a Compelling Listing
Your listing is the first impression buyers will have, so make sure it’s clear, professional, and informative.
Title: Be specific and highlight key features (e.g., “Fully Functional Snack & Drink Vending Machine – Cashless Payment Ready”).
Description:
- Include brand, model, and condition (new, used, or refurbished).
Example: “Seaga HY900 Combo Vending Machine – Used, fully functional, accepts cash and credit cards.” - Mention features such as a card reader, remote monitoring, or combo vending capabilities.
Example: “Equipped with Nayax card reader and remote inventory tracking.” - State if the machine is location-ready or requires servicing.
Example: “Currently operating in a gym, can be relocated or sold with the location.” - Be transparent about any minor issues to build trust with potential buyers.
Example: “Bill acceptor occasionally needs recalibration but works well overall.”
2. Take High-Quality Photos & Videos
Buyers are more likely to inquire about machines that have clear, high-quality images.
- Capture multiple angles, including the front, sides, and inside.
Example: “Upload pictures of the vending machine fully stocked and powered on.” - Take a close-up of the payment system (coin, bill acceptor, or card reader).
Example: “Show a clear image of the Nayax credit card reader and cash slot.” - Show the machine powered on and functioning (include a video of a product being dispensed if possible).
Example: “Record a short video of the machine dispensing a snack and drink.”
3. Price It Competitively
To attract buyers while maximizing your return, research similar machines for sale.
- Check prices on Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, eBay, and UsedVending.com.
Example: “A similar machine is listed for $2,500; I will price mine at $2,300 to stay competitive.” - Price slightly higher than your target amount to allow for negotiation.
Example: “Listing for $2,800, but willing to accept $2,500 after negotiations.” - Highlight extras like spare parts, inventory, or delivery options to add value.
Example: “Includes extra coin mechanism and $100 worth of inventory.”
4. Post in Multiple Locations
Maximize exposure by listing your machine in multiple places:
- Facebook Marketplace: Post in vending-related groups, business buy/sell groups, and local classifieds.
Example: “Posted in ‘Vending Business Owners’ Facebook group and local classifieds.” - Craigslist: List under “Business Equipment” or “For Sale – General.”
Example: “Listed under ‘For Sale – Business Equipment’ with clear pictures and contact info.” - OfferUp & Letgo: These platforms work well for local buyers.
Example: “Added my listing to OfferUp with a special discount for quick sales.”
5. Be Ready to Answer Questions
Serious buyers will likely have detailed questions.
- Have answers ready about machine dimensions, power requirements, and Wi-Fi capabilities.
Example: “Machine dimensions are 72” H x 39” W x 34” D, runs on a standard 110V outlet.” - If selling with an existing location, provide profitability details.
Example: “Currently generating $400/month in revenue at a high-traffic office location.” - Offer a demo to serious buyers to build confidence.
Example: “Meet me at the location to see the machine in action and test the payment system.”
6. Offer Delivery (If Possible)
Providing delivery can make your listing more attractive.
- If you have a way to transport the machine, mention it in the listing.
Example: “I can deliver within a 20-mile radius for an extra $100.” - If not, suggest local moving companies that specialize in vending machine transport.
Example: “I recommend ABC Movers; they charge $150 for vending machine transport.”
7. Avoid Scammers
Stay alert and protect yourself from common scams.
- Beware of buyers offering to send a check or money order.
Example: “Received an offer with a money order – declined and requested cash payment instead.” - Avoid “overpayment” scams where buyers send extra money and ask for a refund.
Example: “A buyer wanted to pay $3,000 for a $2,500 machine and have me refund the difference—ignored it.” - If meeting in person, choose a public place or bring a friend for safety.
Example: “Met a buyer in a well-lit shopping center parking lot with a friend present.”
8. Negotiate Smartly
Expect some negotiation, but know your bottom-line price.
- If multiple buyers show interest, let them know to create urgency.
Example: “Told Buyer A that Buyer B is also interested – encouraged a quicker decision.” - Consider bundling multiple machines or offering a discount for bulk purchases.
Example: “Selling two machines for $4,500 instead of $5,000 individually.” - Mention the option of selling the machine along with its current location for added value.
Example: “Selling with a gym location that earns $350/month – price is $4,500 including location rights.”
Coming Up Next: Selling Vending Machines with Locations
Now that you know how to sell a vending machine, next week we’ll dive into an even more valuable topic—selling vending machines on location. We’ll cover:
- Selling a single vending machine that’s already placed at a business.
- Selling an entire vending route with multiple locations.
- How to determine pricing using the 10-month net profit + machine value + inventory value rule.
Stay tuned for part two of this blog series to learn how to maximize your profits when selling a vending business with active locations!
