Setting up a laboratory in San Diego, one of the world’s top biotech hubs, requires careful planning and smart investments—especially when it comes to acquiring lab equipment. With so many research facilities, life science startups, and established biotech companies, the market for lab equipment in San Diego is highly competitive, and the demand for cost-effective solutions is ever-present.

For researchers, buying used lab equipment can offer significant savings while maintaining access to high-quality instruments. However, it’s important to approach the purchasing process with care, as buying used equipment comes with risks, such as equipment malfunctions, outdated technology, or missing warranties. Understanding the market and the available options will help you strike the right balance between cost savings and ensuring your lab’s efficiency.

In this guide, we’ll explore the key considerations when buying lab equipment in San Diego, including practical tips for purchasing new and used equipment, top resellers in the region, and how to validate and test equipment before making a final decision.

Overview of the Lab Equipment Market in San Diego

San Diego is home to one of the largest biotech and life science communities in the world, making it a prime location for both purchasing and selling lab equipment. Whether you're outfitting a new lab or upgrading an existing one, the diverse ecosystem of academic research labs, life science startups, and established biotech companies provides multiple avenues to source quality lab equipment.

San Diego’s life science and biotech industries are robust, with a growing number of research facilities, pharmaceutical companies, and startups. This makes the city a hotbed for laboratory equipment demand. Whether you’re a small startup looking for cost-effective solutions or a large research facility seeking state-of-the-art instruments, San Diego’s market has something for everyone.

With many research labs regularly upgrading their equipment, there are numerous opportunities to purchase used laboratory equipment from resellers, auctions, or directly from other facilities. Both new and refurbished lab equipment are readily available from local providers, making it easy to find everything from centrifuges and microscopes to incubators and HPLC systems. Startups and established companies alike can benefit from sourcing used equipment that still offers high functionality and reliability but at a fraction of the cost of brand-new equipment. This market flexibility helps research labs of all sizes to get the equipment they need without blowing their budgets.

Some Key Considerations Before Buying

Before making a purchase, it’s important to evaluate several key factors to ensure you’re investing in equipment that meets your lab’s needs.

Assess Your Specific Needs

What equipment is essential for your lab’s operations? Do you need specialized instruments like HPLC systems or centrifuges, or are you outfitting a general-purpose lab with microscopes, incubators, and ovens? Understanding the specific requirements of your lab can help narrow down your options, whether you’re considering new or used equipment.

Balance Budget & Long-Term Value

While buying used lab equipment can save money upfront, make sure to assess the long-term value. Is the equipment in good working order? Will it require frequent repairs? Balancing immediate cost savings with future maintenance and functionality is crucial when considering used equipment. In some cases, it may be worth investing in newer models with warranties and support services, especially for high-usage items.

Check Warranties & Certifications

When purchasing used lab equipment, warranties and certifications are essential. Check if the seller offers a limited warranty or if the equipment comes with a manufacturer-backed warranty. For high-risk items or those requiring precise calibrations, ask for any available certifications or validation reports to ensure the equipment is functioning as intended.

New vs. Used Lab Equipment

When deciding whether to purchase new or used lab equipment, there are several pros and cons to consider:

New Lab Equipment

• Pros: New equipment comes with full warranties, the latest technology, and validation/certification guarantees. For labs requiring top-tier precision, this is often the best option.
• Cons: The main drawback is the cost. Brand-new lab equipment can be a significant financial investment, especially for smaller labs and startups.

Used & Refurbished Lab Equipment

• Pros: Used laboratory equipment offers cost-effective solutions. Resellers often sell refurbished lab equipment that’s been restored to full functionality at competitive prices. This is an excellent option for research labs needing to stretch their budgets while still acquiring quality equipment.
• Cons: Buying used equipment comes with risks. Equipment might lack updated features, or it could break down more frequently, resulting in downtime. You’ll also need to verify that the equipment’s serial number matches maintenance records and ensure that it has been calibrated and serviced appropriately.

Where to Buy Lab Equipment in San Diego

When sourcing lab equipment in San Diego, it's essential to consider reputable local resellers and suppliers. Here are some options to explore:

Resellers & Suppliers

• Conquer Scientific: A leading global supplier of refurbished and used lab equipment, offering a wide range of instruments including HPLCs, GCs, and mass spectrometry systems.
• American Laboratory Trading (ALT): Provides high-quality refurbished lab equipment with a 90-day parts and labor warranty, and optional 1-year warranty upgrades. Locations in San Diego and around the US.
• Marshall Scientific: Offers quality refurbished lab equipment, fully tested and serviced, with a 180-day parts and labor warranty.
• The Lab World Group: Supplies a variety of used lab equipment, including biosafety cabinets, centrifuges, and ultra-low temperature freezers, all fully tested and validated.
• Lab Cycle Partners: Specializes in buying, selling, and recycling used laboratory equipment, providing cost-effective solutions for startups and small businesses.
• R&D Laboratory Equipment: Reseller of quality tested used lab equipment, including incubators, fume hoods, and centrifuges, offering local pickup and nationwide shipping.

Auctions & Surplus Sales

San Diego’s academic and research institutions like UC San Diego and San Diego State University, often hold surplus equipment auctions, or have warehouses you can check out. Auction events can be a good opportunity to buy used lab equipment at competitive prices, though items are usually sold “as-is,” so be sure to inspect the equipment thoroughly. Be sure to check out UC San Diego's Surplus Warehouse to see if any of the items you need are available. It might end up being a very affordable option to getting your operations and research off the ground.

That said, used equipment won't be ideal as you grow. Depending on how you fundraise, you'll want to consider upgrading your equipment after securing more funding. That way, you ensure your research is reproducible, accurate, quick—and scalable, as your operations are sure to expand.

Leasing Companies & Financiers

If purchasing used or new lab equipment doesn’t suit your needs, leasing lab equipment from providers like Excedr can be an excellent alternative. Our leasing program is dedicated to scientists, and can support a wide range of equipment needs. By leasing the equipment you need, you can extend cash runway thanks to low upfront costs and reduce budget constraints through low monthly payments. You can also layer in flexibility to your lab operations by leasing, allowing you to upgrade to newer models over time without the upfront costs associated with buying.

How to Navigate the Used Lab Equipment Market in San Diego

Buying used lab equipment in San Diego can save you significant costs, but it’s essential to approach the process strategically to avoid potential risks. With a competitive biotech hub like San Diego, there are multiple channels for sourcing quality equipment. Here’s how you can maximize your success:

Research Reputable Resellers

Focus on trusted local resellers like Prodigy Scientific or Myriad Industries, which specialize in refurbishing and selling high-quality lab equipment. Look for companies that provide:

• Detailed maintenance and calibration histories.
• Warranties or return policies.
• Documentation for compliance with industry standards.

Explore Auctions & Surplus Sales

Academic institutions like UC San Diego frequently hold surplus sales or auctions. While these events offer competitive prices, items are sold “as-is,” making inspection critical. Before participating:

• Visit the site in advance to inspect equipment in person.
• Understand auction terms and conditions.
• Set a budget to avoid overpaying for unverified items.

Prioritize Validation & Testing

Used equipment requires thorough testing to ensure functionality. Request:

• Validation reports to confirm equipment accuracy.
• Serial numbers and maintenance records to verify proper servicing.
• On-site testing, if possible, to assess how the equipment performs in a real-world lab setting.

Build Relationships with Local Suppliers

Building relationships with local suppliers and resellers can give you an edge. Many sellers prioritize repeat customers and may notify you of new inventory or provide discounts on bulk purchases.

Balance Cost with Maintenance and Long-Term Needs

While saving on upfront costs is appealing, consider the long-term impact. Assess:

• Whether the equipment’s lifespan aligns with your lab’s goals.
• Potential repair costs and downtime.
• If warranties or service agreements are available to reduce future risks.

Always Validate & Test Equipment Before Purchase

Purchasing used lab equipment can be a cost-effective solution, but validating its functionality is essential to avoid costly mistakes. Whenever possible, follow these steps to minimize risk, ensure the equipment you're acquiring will work correctly, and is suitable for your lab's needs:

• Calibrate and validate: Confirm that the equipment has been calibrated to the manufacturer’s standards. For precision instruments like HPLC systems, centrifuges, and spectrophotometers, proper calibration is crucial for accurate and reliable results. Request documentation to verify compliance.
• Check serial numbers and maintenance history: Check the serial number to review the equipment’s maintenance and service records. This information can help you determine whether the equipment has been properly maintained or if it has a history of frequent breakdowns.
• Test equipment functionality: Whenever possible, test the equipment in a real-world lab setting to ensure it performs as expected. If on-site testing isn’t an option, request a demonstration video or validation report from the seller to confirm functionality.
• Inspect for wear and tear: Examine the equipment for visible signs of wear, such as damaged components or corrosion, which might indicate potential issues.

Final considerations: balancing budget, maintenance, and long-term value

When buying lab equipment—whether new or used—it’s important to weigh upfront costs against long-term value. Here’s how to make a balanced decision:

• Budget considerations: For startups and small labs, purchasing used or refurbished equipment can be a smart way to stretch limited budgets. However, avoid focusing solely on cost savings; poorly maintained equipment may lead to higher repair expenses and downtime over time.
• Maintenance and servicing costs: Factor in the costs of regular maintenance and potential repairs when evaluating used equipment. High-usage tools may benefit from warranties or service agreements, which are often included in leasing options.
• Consider leasing as an alternative: Leasing equipment can provide additional peace of mind, as many lease agreements include maintenance and repair services. This ensures your lab remains operational and eliminates the risk of unexpected expenses. Leasing also offers the flexibility to upgrade to newer models as your lab’s needs evolve.

Balancing immediate savings with long-term value will help you make smarter procurement decisions, keeping your lab efficient and cost-effective over time.

Here’s Our Bid

Tapping into the used lab equipment market in San Diego can help you acquire the equipment you need through cost-effective means, but used equipment comes with its risks, including equipment age and condition. Whether you decide to purchase used or lease new equipment, it’s essential to prioritize quality, maintenance history, and compatibility with your lab’s needs.

Here's our bid: leasing with Excedr offers a low-risk, high-flexibility solution for labs looking to acquire high-quality equipment without the financial and operational risks associated with buying used. By choosing to lease, your lab will have access to the latest technology, with the added security of maintenance services built into your lease.

Get in touch with us today to learn more about how our leasing program can support your lab’s success.