Selling Used Cisco Routers and Switches
There are a few important tips to remember when selling used Cisco Routers, Switches and other networking equipment. The following professional guidelines will help you get the most out of your used networking equipment, so that you can use the proceeds to fund future upgrades.
Tip # 1: Do your Homework! – Having an accurate inventory of your used Cisco equipment is essential. Cisco routers and switches often have slots for accessory interfaces and modules, WAN cards, etc …. get a complete inventory, writing down part numbers (and serial numbers if possible) of both your Cisco router and switch chassis, as well as the accessory interfaces which are installed in the units.
Tip # 2: Take Photos! – Having a photo inventory of your used Cisco gear is helpful in marketing it. Most buyers like to see photos so that they can verify the model, accessories and cosmetic condition of the used Cisco equipment you are selling.
Tip # 3 – Test your equipment! – If you have the staff and time to do so, test your used equipment so that you can declare, and perhaps warrantee it, as being in good known working condition. Buyers will pay a premium for used Cisco equipment that is fully tested and guaranteed, as opposed to Cisco equipment that is offered « As Is ».
Tip # 4 – Beware of Scam Artists – Used Cisco equipment is particularly attractive to scammers. Because of its relative high value, portability and worldwide market …. Cisco equipment is a potentially lucrative target for scammers. Make sure you fully vet your buyer before you do business. Also try to get your payment in advance. Dealing with a reputable buyer will mitigate any risk of a scam artist taking advantage of you when selling your used Cisco equipment.
Tip # 5 – Keep a Record of Serial Numbers – Another popular scam occurs when a dishonest buyer purchases a piece of used Cisco equipment from you, perhaps a router or switch …. and upon receiving it, notifies you to tell you that it is broken or somehow malfunctioning. Little do you know that the buyer intends to swap the working unit he / she purchased from you with a non-working unit that had in their possession already. If you have a record of the serial number of the unit you sold, you can compare it against the serial number of the unit they claim they want to return to you, and you can sniff out this scam.
Tip # 6 – Work with a Professional! – By working with a professional remarketing firm, you can avoid most of the potential pitfalls of successfully selling your Used Cisco equipment.
