Used Wheelchairs: Save money buying a pre-owned wheelchair!
By
Go-Wheelchairs
Used wheelchairs can be a great way to get around on the cheap, but like used cars - there are good ones and bad ones, so it behooves you to be careful with what you decide to buy: Caveat Emptor! These days, many new wheelchairs are available at surprising affordable prices, so be sure you compare your new and used options to ensure you're getting the best value for your dollar.
Buying a used wheelchair can present a number of challenges: Finding a used wheelchair for sale, assessing it's condition, negotiating a price, and delivery of the eventual purchase are just some of the concerns to consider. If you buy a pre-owned chair from a well-known wheelchair dealer in your area these factors may not be of great concern, but if you're buying from a private party it pays to be aware of them.
Finding a used wheelchair: The first challenge is where to find a chair. Ebay is one great online resource listing hundreds of chairs, lifts, batteries and other supplies, both new and used. Your local city paper and Thrifty nickel may be another source of supply. You can always check with wheelchair stores, hospitals and online resources for used, discontinued, floor-model or slightly damaged wheelchairs which you may be able to buy at a discount.
If you end up buying the wheelchair locally, delivery will probably not be a problem. Most likely the previous owner of the wheelchair will have a vehicle capable of transporting it in the event that you do not. If you buy from a dealership, they will also have delivery services available. If you need to arrange for transportation from a distant private party, check with parcel delivery services like UPS or FedEx to find out what types of arrangements they can make to facilitate your transaction.
If you do end up buying from a private party, especially one a distance away, make sure you check with them to see what their return policy is before ordering. You should be able to get a full refund (minus shipping costs) if you are dissatisfied with the quality or condition of the chair once you buy it. When your used wheelchair arrives, I would recommend taking it in to a local wheelchair repair/service company to look it over for any problems which could lead to malfunction and possible injury for you.
The primary strategy to remember when shopping for a pre-owned wheelchair is to take your time and do your homework. You want to invest in something that will last a long time and keep you safe in the meantime. Don't be in a rush, proceed with caution, and make sure you develop a good relationship of trust with the person selling you the chair before you give them any money. If you're counting on guarantees or a trial period to test the chair, be sure you get that in writing to reduce the chances of being stuck with a lemon!
1 Comments
October 14th, 2009 at 12:51 am
[...] told you should use a wheelchair then you should consider several things before deciding to buy a used wheelchair. It is not usually recommended that you buy a wheelchair that has been owned and used by another [...]