Guide to Buying Used Lab Equipment in Boston

Last Updated on 

March 3, 2022

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Excedr
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Boston is at the heart of the biotech and life sciences industries, home to renowned universities, research labs, and cutting-edge biotech companies. Its dynamic ecosystem makes it an ideal location for sourcing high-quality used lab equipment. Whether you’re running a startup or managing a well-established lab, Boston offers a wide range of opportunities to access reliable, cost-effective tools.

Purchasing used lab equipment in Boston can be done through a variety of channels, including local resellers, surplus warehouses, auctions, and financing or leasing programs. For labs in their early stages of development, however, joining an incubator or co-working space might be the most practical and resource-efficient choice. These facilities provide access to shared equipment, flexible terms, and a supportive community that fosters growth. This guide will help you navigate these options, from finding reputable sources to understanding the benefits of leasing or renting equipment as your lab evolves.

The Used Lab Equipment Market in Boston

Boston’s biotech and life sciences ecosystem makes it a thriving marketplace for used lab equipment. With an abundance of research institutions, biotech startups, pharmaceutical companies, and academic labs, the city offers continuous opportunities to access a variety of scientific tools, from refurbished centrifuges and incubators to specialized equipment like spectrometers and liquid handlers.

Where to Look for Used Lab Equipment in Boston

Boston provides several reliable options for acquiring used lab equipment, each suited to different needs and budgets:

  • Local Resellers and Refurbishers: Trusted resellers like Cambridge Scientific Products and Boston Industries specialize in refurbished equipment that is fully serviced, calibrated, and backed by warranties. These resellers provide a cost-effective way to acquire high-quality instruments with confidence.
  • Auctions and Surplus Sales: Local research facilities, biotech companies, and universities often hold surplus sales or participate in auctions. These events offer significant savings on well-maintained equipment but require buyers to inspect items carefully as they are sold “as-is.”
  • Incubators and Co-Working Spaces: For early-stage labs, joining an incubator or co-working space like LabCentral or LabShares Newton can be a game-changer. These facilities provide access to state-of-the-art equipment without the upfront costs of ownership. Members also benefit from networking opportunities, mentorship, and shared resources, making these spaces ideal for startups.
  • Core Facilities and Shared Resources: Universities and research institutions in Boston operate core facilities that provide short-term access to specialized tools. While not a long-term solution, these facilities are perfect for testing new equipment or completing specific projects without committing to a purchase.

These options are some of the best places to start. But which option is best for you?

If you’re just starting out, purchasing used lab equipment can be an excellent way to save money and stretch a tight budget. But while used equipment can help you get your lab up and running, it’s often a temporary solution. Over time, as your lab grows and funding becomes available—whether through successful fundraising or revenue generation—you may want to consider upgrading to more reliable tools.

If purchasing new equipment isn’t feasible, refurbished options provide a practical middle ground. Refurbished items offer the benefits of improved reliability and performance, often at a fraction of the cost of buying new. Leasing refurbished equipment through programs like Excedr’s can be especially advantageous, allowing you to access professionally restored tools without the upfront investment. It’s a smart, flexible solution to keep your lab moving forward.

Key Considerations When Purchasing Used Lab Equipment

Purchasing used lab equipment can be a cost-effective way to equip your lab, but it requires careful evaluation to avoid unexpected issues. A thorough assessment of the equipment’s condition, history, and compatibility with your lab’s needs is essential to making a smart investment.

Key Questions to Ask Before Buying

  • What is the equipment’s history? Understanding where and how the equipment was previously used can provide valuable insight into its condition. Equipment from a university research lab, for instance, may have experienced less wear and tear than equipment used in a high-volume industrial setting.
  • Are there maintenance records? Request detailed service and maintenance logs to ensure the equipment was properly cared for. Consistent maintenance history can indicate reliability and reduce the likelihood of costly repairs.
  • Is the equipment compatible with current technology? Verify the manufacture date and consider how well the equipment integrates with your existing lab protocols or newer systems. For example, older instruments may not support modern software or have replacement parts readily available.
  • Does the equipment have a serial number and warranty? A valid serial number allows you to verify the equipment’s authenticity and, in some cases, transfer an active warranty. Some refurbished equipment from reputable resellers may also come with a limited warranty.
  • Is the seller reputable? Whether you’re purchasing from a reseller, auction, or surplus sale, it’s critical to confirm the credibility of the seller. Look for reviews, ask for references, and verify their return or refund policies.

Evaluating the Total Cost of Ownership

While used equipment and lab instruments offer significant upfront savings, it’s important to consider the total cost of ownership over time. This includes maintenance, potential repairs, and the availability of spare parts. For high-usage equipment, investing slightly more in a newer refurbished model with a warranty may save money in the long run.

Example Scenario: Weighing Options for a Centrifuge

Imagine your lab needs a centrifuge but is working within a tight budget. You find two options: one is a 10-year-old model sold “as-is” from an auction, and the other is a refurbished 5-year-old model from a trusted reseller that includes a warranty and recent calibration. While the auction option is cheaper upfront, the refurbished model provides greater reliability and fewer risks, ultimately saving your lab downtime and repair costs. By weighing these factors, you ensure the best value for your investment.

Tips for Inspecting Equipment

When possible, physically inspect the equipment or request a video demonstration from the seller. Key areas to evaluate include:

  • Physical condition: Look for signs of wear, such as cracks, corrosion, or missing components.
  • Performance testing: Verify that the equipment functions as expected, particularly for precision tools like spectrometers or HPLC systems.
  • Calibration documentation: Ensure the equipment has been calibrated to manufacturer standards.

By asking the right questions, evaluating total ownership costs, and thoroughly inspecting equipment before purchase, you can minimize risks and make confident decisions for your lab.

Resellers & Equipment Suppliers Worth Checking Out

Boston is home to a variety of trusted resellers and suppliers specializing in used and refurbished lab equipment. These companies offer a wide selection of tools, ranging from basic lab essentials to high-tech analytical instruments, making them an excellent resource for equipping your lab affordably and reliably:

  • American Instrument Exchange: Specializes in buying, refurbishing, and selling high-quality used laboratory equipment across various sectors, including biotech, medical, and academic research. They maintain an extensive inventory and provide full testing and calibration before shipment. With decades of experience, they are a go-to option for labs needing dependable refurbished tools.
  • Cambridge Scientific Products: Offers a broad array of refurbished laboratory equipment, from centrifuges to spectrometers, and provides leasing and rental options for short- or long-term projects. They are known for their excellent customer service and support, including tailored recommendations for your lab’s specific needs.
  • Boston Industries: Focuses on high-tech scientific instruments, including liquid handlers, HPLC systems, and microscopes. Their refurbishing process ensures optimal performance, making them a preferred choice for labs requiring precision equipment at a fraction of the cost of new.
  • The Lab World Group: Provides reliable, used lab equipment such as ultra-low temperature freezers, incubators, and centrifuges. Every piece is fully tested and verified to meet industry standards before being sold, ensuring you receive tools you can rely on.
  • Marshall Scientific: Known for its commitment to quality, Marshall Scientific offers refurbished lab equipment with a 180-day warranty. Their team provides detailed service records and ensures each instrument meets OEM standards, giving labs confidence in their purchases.
  • American Laboratory Trading: Supplies tested and serviced refurbished lab equipment, including centrifuges, analytical balances, and spectrophotometers. They also offer consignment services for labs looking to sell surplus equipment, making them a great option for both buyers and sellers.

What Sets Resellers Apart?

Reputable resellers like these don’t just sell equipment—they provide added value through quality assurance, calibration, and warranties. For example, if you’re purchasing a refurbished spectrometer from Cambridge Scientific Products, you can expect it to be tested for accuracy and recalibrated to ensure it functions as if it were new.

Maximizing Your Search

When working with resellers, it’s helpful to:

  • Request detailed specifications: Ensure the equipment meets your technical requirements.
  • Ask about warranties and service plans: Many resellers offer warranties or extended service agreements, reducing long-term risks.
  • Compare options: If a reseller doesn’t have the exact item you need in stock, they may suggest alternative models that still meet your lab’s requirements.

These resellers represent just some of the options for sourcing reliable laboratory instruments in Boston.

Surplus Warehouses, Auction Events & Sites

For labs looking to stretch their budgets further, surplus warehouses and auction events provide excellent opportunities to acquire quality used lab equipment at competitive prices. These resources are especially valuable for finding well-maintained surplus items from universities, biotech companies, and research institutions. However, buyers should be prepared to inspect or request condition details, as items are often sold “as-is.”

Top Options in the Boston Area

  • Surplus Solutions LLC: Specializes in laboratory and biotech equipment sales through online and on-site auctions. Their events feature a wide variety of tools, from centrifuges to HPLC systems, with items inspected and clearly listed for buyers. They offer nationwide shipping, making them accessible for labs outside of the immediate Boston area.
  • Heritage Global Partners: Holds online and live auctions for lab equipment sourced from biotech companies and research labs, including those in the Boston area. Their detailed catalogs and live online bidding make it easy to participate, whether you’re looking for precision instruments or general lab tools.
  • LabX: An online platform that aggregates auction listings for new, used, and refurbished laboratory equipment. LabX collaborates with auction houses and sellers to provide detailed equipment descriptions, condition reports, and photos, ensuring transparency for buyers.

Tips for Navigating Auctions and Surplus Sales

  1. Research the seller: Make sure the organization hosting the auction or surplus sale is reputable and provides accurate descriptions of the equipment.
  2. Inspect before purchasing: If possible, attend in-person previews or request video demonstrations to evaluate the condition of the equipment.
  3. Set a budget: Auctions can be competitive, so determine your maximum bid beforehand to avoid overpaying.
  4. Understand terms of sale: Some items may not include warranties or service agreements. Be clear about return policies and post-sale support.

Incubators & Co-Working Spaces to Consider

Boston’s thriving biotech and life sciences community includes a robust network of incubators and co-working spaces tailored to startups and growing labs. These facilities offer more than just physical space—they provide access to high-quality lab equipment, shared resources, and support systems designed to accelerate innovation. For labs with limited budgets or short-term needs, incubators and co-working spaces are a smart solution.

Leading Incubators and Co-Working Spaces in the Boston Area

  • LabCentral: Located in Cambridge, LabCentral is a non-profit organization offering over 225,000 square feet of laboratory and office spaces designed for early-stage biotech startups. Members gain access to fully permitted labs, shared high-tech equipment, and common areas. LabCentral also provides networking opportunities, mentorship programs, and support services that help startups scale their operations efficiently.
  • LabShares Newton: This co-working lab space in Newton, MA, is tailored for small biotech and life sciences startups. LabShares offers private lab benches, shared office spaces, and access to state-of-the-art equipment. Facilities are meticulously maintained, ensuring members have reliable tools to conduct experiments and advance their research.
  • Tufts Launchpad | BioLabs: Based in Boston, this shared lab and co-working space offers startups access to infrastructure, high-end lab equipment, and technical support. Powered by BioLabs, the facility fosters a collaborative environment where entrepreneurs can focus on achieving key milestones while minimizing overhead costs.
  • ABI-LAB: Located in Natick, MA, ABI-LAB provides modular, move-in-ready lab spaces ranging from 500 to 1,000 square feet. Designed for startups and small companies, the facility offers flexible leasing terms, on-site support, and access to shared lab resources, making it an ideal choice for growing labs.
  • C2I Accelerator: Situated in Woburn, MA, just outside Boston, C2I Accelerator offers a 20,000-square-foot space with chemistry, biology, and tissue culture labs. Their mission is to support life sciences entrepreneurs by providing the resources and community needed to bring ideas to life.
  • The Engine: Founded by MIT, The Engine focuses on "tough tech" startups, including biotech and life sciences. With cutting-edge lab spaces, specialized equipment, and access to industry experts, The Engine helps companies transition from prototype to commercialization.
  • Southline Boston Labs - Portal Innovations: This modern facility offers over $2 million worth of wet and dry lab spaces, co-working areas, and shared equipment. Located in Boston, Southline Labs is ideal for startups emerging from local universities or seeking short-term access to high-quality instruments.

Benefits of Incubators and Co-Working Spaces

  1. Access to shared equipment: Many of these spaces provide access to specialized tools like centrifuges, microscopes, and spectroscopy systems, reducing upfront costs for members.
  2. Flexible terms: Short-term leases and pay-as-you-go models allow startups to adapt their space and resource usage as they grow.
  3. Supportive ecosystem: Incubators and co-working spaces often include mentorship programs, funding opportunities, and networking events that connect members with industry leaders and investors.

Incubators & Co-Working Spaces to Consider

  • ABI-LAB: Located in Natick, MA, ABI-LAB is a life science campus comprising multiple incubator buildings for biotech companies of all sizes. Their state-of-the-art facilities are designed to support startups and small companies with move-in ready, private lab spaces ranging from 500 to 1,000 square feet. They also offer modular designs and flexible terms to accommodate growing companies.
  • C2I Accelerator: Situated in Woburn, MA, just 15 miles from Boston/Cambridge, C2I is a life science incubator and accelerator offering 20,000 sq ft of lab and office space, including chemistry, biology, and tissue culture labs. Their mission is to foster the next generation of life science entrepreneurs by providing a nurturing community and resources to support their challenges.
  • Tufts Launchpad | BioLabs: Based in Boston, this fully equipped co-working and shared lab space provides startups with the infrastructure and equipment they need to build their biotechs. Powered by BioLabs, it offers an entrepreneur-centered ecosystem where biotechs can test new ideas and reach milestones faster.
  • LabShares Newton: Located in Newton, MA, LabShares is a co-working laboratory space designed for life science startups. They offer state-of-the-art equipment, impeccably maintained and calibrated, along with a top-notch management team that works around the clock to support innovation.
  • LabCentral: Situated in Cambridge, MA, LabCentral is a non-profit organization offering over 225,000 sq. feet of fully permitted laboratory and office spaces for biotech startups. It provides a unique, entrepreneur-centered ecosystem where companies can test new ideas and innovate in the face of complex challenges.
  • The Engine: Founded by MIT and located in Cambridge, MA, The Engine supports startups working on scientific and technological innovations. It offers access to specialized equipment, labs, and a network of experts to help bring ideas to market faster.
  • Southline Boston Labs - Portal Innovations: Located in Boston, Portal Innovations' Southline Labs serves as a destination for startups emerging from local universities. The space includes over $2 million of modern equipment, wet and dry labs, and co-working spaces, ideal for biotech and medtech startups.

Used vs. Refurbished Lab Equipment: What’s the Difference?

When purchasing lab equipment in Boston, understanding the difference between "used" and "refurbished" can help you find reliable tools while staying within budget. Both options are widely available from Boston-area suppliers and auctions, but each has its strengths and considerations.

Used Lab Equipment

Used lab equipment is often sold "as-is" without repairs or testing after its previous use. While this is the most affordable option, it requires buyers to thoroughly evaluate the equipment’s condition before purchase.

Key Considerations:

  • Affordability: Used equipment is typically the least expensive option, ideal for labs with limited budgets.
  • Risk: Without recent servicing, the equipment may have wear and tear or outdated features.
  • Local Sources: In Boston, surplus sales from universities or local auction houses like Surplus Solutions LLC often include used equipment at competitive prices.

Refurbished Lab Equipment

Refurbished equipment has been serviced, repaired, and tested to meet manufacturer standards. Boston-based resellers like Cambridge Scientific Products and American Instrument Exchange specialize in refurbishing tools to ensure reliability.

Key Considerations:

  • Reliability: Refurbished equipment is less likely to malfunction and often comes with warranties.
  • Cost-Effectiveness: Though more expensive upfront, refurbished tools offer long-term value by minimizing downtime and repair costs.
  • Local Sources: Resellers in the Boston area provide warranties and calibration services, ensuring you receive equipment that performs like new.

Choosing the Best Option in Boston

For precision instruments like HPLC systems or spectrometers, refurbished tools from trusted Boston resellers are often the safest choice. However, for general-purpose equipment like balances or centrifuges, a well-maintained used option from a surplus sale may suffice.

Benefits of Leasing vs. Buying Used Lab Equipment

For Boston-area labs seeking flexibility, leasing can provide an appealing alternative to buying used or refurbished equipment. Leasing allows labs to access high-quality tools without the upfront costs of purchasing, offering unique benefits for startups and smaller teams.

Why Leasing Might Be Right for Your Lab

  • Lower Upfront Costs: Leasing requires minimal initial investment, preserving cash flow for other priorities like staffing or consumables.
  • Flexibility to Upgrade: Leasing enables labs to upgrade to newer models as technology evolves, which is particularly advantageous in Boston’s innovation-driven biotech scene.
  • Reliable Maintenance Plans: Many leasing agreements include maintenance and support, ensuring labs avoid unexpected repair costs.

Boston-based labs can explore leasing programs offered by providers like Excedr, which specialize in flexible terms for scientific equipment. This option works particularly well for labs requiring cutting-edge tools without committing to long-term ownership.

Conclusion

Boston’s vibrant biotech and life sciences ecosystem offers unmatched opportunities for sourcing high-quality lab equipment. From resellers and auctions to incubators and leasing programs, the city’s diverse resources cater to labs at every stage of development.

Early-stage labs can benefit from joining incubators or co-working spaces, gaining access to shared equipment and a supportive community without the financial burden of ownership. For established labs, trusted resellers and surplus sales provide cost-effective solutions for expanding operations or upgrading tools. And for labs seeking long-term flexibility, leasing programs like Excedr’s offer access to cutting-edge equipment with minimal upfront costs.

By strategically assessing your lab’s unique needs and leveraging Boston’s extensive network of resources, you can secure reliable, cost-effective tools that drive your research forward. Whether you’re just starting out or scaling up, Boston has the solutions to help your lab thrive.

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