What to Look for When Buying Secondhand Power Tools Online

If you're a DIY enthusiast, a weekend warrior, or a professional contractor, power tools are essential to getting the job done. But brand-new tools can be expensive — especially when you need more than one. That’s where secondhand power tools come in. At Die Skatkis, we stock quality used power tools at affordable prices, giving you the best of both worlds: performance and value.

Before you dive into the world of used tools, it’s important to know what to look for. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to shop smart when buying secondhand power tools online in South Africa.

Why Buy Secondhand Power Tools?

There are a few key reasons why buying used tools is a smart move:

Cost savings: Secondhand tools are significantly cheaper than new ones — sometimes more than 50% off.
Proven durability: Older tools were often built to last. Some secondhand brands outperform newer, cheaper alternatives.
Sustainability: Buying used reduces landfill waste and supports a circular economy.

But not every used tool is a good buy. Let’s explore how to separate the diamonds from the duds.

1. Buy From a Trusted Source

The first and most important tip is to buy from a reliable seller. At Die Skatkis, we inspect all incoming power tools to ensure they’re in working order. Avoid buying from unverified individuals on classifieds platforms unless you’re able to test the tool yourself.

Look for sellers that:

Offer product photos from multiple angles
Describe the tool’s condition clearly
Are transparent about wear, missing parts, or defects
Have customer reviews or return policies

2. Check the Brand and Model

Not all power tool brands are created equal. When buying secondhand, stick to reputable brands known for their durability, such as:

Makita
DeWalt
Bosch
Ryobi
Milwaukee
Hilti

Search for reviews on the specific model number. Some older models are known for their reliability, while others might have common defects or lack replacement parts.

Tip: At Die Skatkis, we often list the brand, model number, and condition in the product description — always take a moment to Google them!

3. Inspect for Physical Damage

When you buy in person or receive your order, inspect the tool carefully. Watch out for:

Cracks or dents in the housing
Excessive rust on metal parts
Worn-out power cords or exposed wiring
Missing parts like guards, batteries, or blades

Even if the tool powers on, structural damage can make it unsafe to use. Make sure everything feels solid and secure.

4. Test It (If Possible)

If you’re buying locally or picking up your order, test the tool before taking it home. Check that:

The motor runs smoothly without strange noises
There’s no excessive vibration or overheating
All switches and settings are working
Attachments lock in place properly
Cordless tools include functional batteries and chargers

Note: Some wear and tear is normal for secondhand tools — what you want to avoid is mechanical failure or safety risks.

5. Evaluate Battery Condition (For Cordless Tools)

Batteries are one of the first components to degrade in cordless power tools. Here’s what to look for:

Battery life: Ask how long the battery holds a charge.
Charger included: Always make sure the charger is part of the deal.
Compatibility: Replacement batteries should still be available if needed.

Keep in mind: even if the tool is in great shape, replacing a dead battery can cost nearly as much as buying another used tool — so factor that into your decision.

6. Check for Spare Parts Availability

Can you find replacement parts if something breaks later? This is especially important for older tools. Brands like Makita, DeWalt, and Bosch often have long-term support for spare parts and accessories.

You can do a quick online search for:

“[Tool Model] replacement parts South Africa”
“[Brand] service centre near me”

Die Skatkis aims to list popular, well-supported tools to make your repairs easier and more affordable down the line.

7. Consider the Price vs. New

Used tools are a bargain — but only if the price makes sense. Before buying, compare the secondhand price to:

The price of a brand-new tool (check Takealot, Builders Warehouse, etc.)
Similar secondhand tools listed online
The cost of potential repairs or battery replacements

If the tool is 70–80% of the price of a new one and doesn’t include a warranty, it might not be worth it. But if it’s in great condition and priced well, it’s a solid investment.

8. Look for Safety Certifications

Most quality power tools will have safety markings like CE, UL, or SABS approval. These show that the tool met manufacturing safety standards.

Although this is more important for new purchases, it’s still worth checking on secondhand gear. Lack of certification doesn’t automatically make a tool dangerous, but it’s something to consider — especially if it’s an unknown brand.

9. Ask Questions

Don’t be afraid to ask the seller:

“How old is this tool?”
“Has it been serviced before?”
“Why are you selling it?”
“Has it been used professionally or just at home?”

At Die Skatkis, we aim to provide all the information you need upfront. But if you have questions, our team is always here to help!

10. Trust Your Gut

Finally — trust your instincts. If something feels off, smells burnt, or the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Buying secondhand is about balancing value with peace of mind.

When in doubt, browse our power tools collection — carefully selected, inspected, and priced fairly to make your secondhand shopping stress-free.

Ready to Grab a Bargain?

Shopping for secondhand power tools doesn’t have to be risky — especially when you know what to look for. At Die Skatkis, we make it easy to buy quality used tools online with confidence.

Visit our Secondhand Tools collection to see what’s in stock today — you never know what gems you’ll find!