Let’s be honest—starting or growing a coffee business isn’t cheap. Between the green beans, packaging, shop rent, and that all-important equipment, it adds up fast. And if you’re serious about roasting your own beans, you’ve probably already sticker-shocked yourself looking at new industrial roasters.
That’s why buying used sounds so appealing. You could save tens of thousands of dollars upfront—and maybe even get your hands on a machine that’s already proven itself in the roasting world. But before you jump on that Craigslist deal or lightly-used listing, let’s slow down for a second. A used roasting machine can be a total win… or a total headache.
In this guide, we’ll break down what you really need to know before buying a pre-owned roaster: the perks, the pitfalls, and the must-ask questions to make sure you’re getting a machine that works as hard as you do.
Why Buy Used? Let’s Talk About the Upsides
No surprise here: the biggest reason to buy used is saving money. Industrial coffee roasters aren’t exactly cheap—new models can easily hit $50,000 or more. Going pre-owned? You could pay half that, or even less, depending on the brand and age. That’s a serious budget breather, especially if you’re launching a small roastery or scaling up without deep-pocket investors.
But it’s not just about price. New machines often come with long lead times—you might be waiting months before it even ships. A used roaster? It’s ready when you are. That faster turnaround could get you roasting and selling weeks (or even months) sooner.
And here’s something a lot of folks don’t think about: sometimes, older machines are built like tanks. Some pros even prefer certain vintage models because of their craftsmanship or roasting profile. A well-cared-for classic can still crank out top-quality beans, no bells and whistles needed.
But… There’s a Catch
Okay, now for the flip side. Buying used isn’t all sunshine and savings. Just like buying a used car, you’re inheriting whatever wear, tear, and quirks the previous owner left behind.
Did they stay on top of maintenance? Did they push that roaster to its absolute limit every day for years? Are there any past repairs you should know about? These are the kinds of questions you’ll need answers to.
And don’t forget about parts and support. Some older machines are out of production, meaning replacement parts could be tricky—or impossible—to find. If something breaks, you might be stuck waiting weeks for a custom-fabricated part or hunting through secondhand suppliers.
Also, depending on where you live, older roasters might not meet today’s environmental or safety standards. Upgrading to meet codes could be pricey, so check your local requirements before signing anything.
How Big Do You Really Need?
Here’s where a lot of buyers trip up: they either go too big, thinking they’ll “grow into it,” or too small, assuming they’ll never roast more than a few batches a day. Both approaches can backfire.
A roasting machine that’s way too large for your daily output wastes energy and might even roast worse at small batch sizes. On the flip side, if you underestimate demand, you’ll end up roasting nonstop just to keep up—and burning yourself (and the machine) out in the process.
Take a realistic look at your current production and where you want to be in the next couple of years. Are you roasting for one café? Supplying a few wholesale clients? Selling retail bags online?
Finding that sweet spot in capacity is key. It’s tempting to go bigger “just in case,” but bigger isn’t always better if it means higher operating costs or inconsistent small-batch roasts.
See It in Action—Not Just on Paper
If there’s one piece of advice you follow, make it this: don’t buy blind. Try to see the roaster in person before you buy. Watch it run. Listen to it. Smell it. (Yes, really.)
Here’s what you want to check:
- Drum condition: Is it warped? Does it spin smoothly?
- Motors and bearings: Any weird grinding or squealing sounds?
- Controls: Do all buttons, knobs, and sensors work?
- Cooling tray: Does it cool beans fast and evenly?
- Chaff system: Any leaks or clogs?
If you’re not super familiar with the mechanics, bring along a tech who knows roasting equipment. Spending a few hundred bucks on a pro inspection now could save you thousands later.
Don’t Overlook Ventilation
It’s easy to get wrapped up in the roaster itself and forget the stuff around it—like ventilation. But trust me, you won’t forget once that first smoky roast sets off your building’s fire alarms.
A roaster without proper exhaust isn’t just annoying—it can violate health and air quality codes. Some used machines come with their original venting, but most will need a custom install. And if you’re moving it to a new space, plan on hiring pros to design a compliant system.
Don’t assume you can “just hook it up.” Every building is different, and cutting corners on venting can cause expensive (and dangerous) problems down the road.
Service History Is Everything
If the seller can’t hand you a maintenance log, that’s a red flag. A well-loved machine should have records of regular cleanings, repairs, and part swaps. No records? That doesn’t automatically mean trouble—but it does mean you’ll need to inspect extra carefully.
Also ask: how many owners has it had? Was it used in a boutique roastery or a giant factory setting? Has it had any major parts replaced? The answers can clue you into how hard it’s been worked—and how much life it might still have left.
And be upfront: why are they selling? Are they upgrading? Downsizing? Closing shop? Knowing the backstory can help you spot potential issues they might not be saying outright.
Upgrades: Worth It or Waste?
Depending on the machine’s age, you might want to budget for a few upgrades. Some older roasters can be fitted with modern digital controls, data logging, or better airflow systems. These add-ons can improve precision and consistency, especially if you’re roasting for specialty markets.
But not every machine is worth retrofitting. Some models don’t play well with modern parts, or the cost to upgrade might rival just buying a newer machine. Do your homework on what’s possible (and practical) before committing.
What About Warranties and Support?
Most used roasters are sold as-is, meaning no warranty from the manufacturer. But if you’re buying from a reputable refurbisher or dealer, they might offer a short-term warranty or support package. That can be a nice safety net, especially if you’re not a roaster tech yourself.
Ask:
- Will they help with installation?
- Do they offer phone support if something breaks?
- Are replacement parts readily available?
A little backup in those first few months can make a huge difference if you hit a snag.
Delivery and Installation: Don’t Skip This
A roaster isn’t something you just wheel into the shop. These machines are heavy, bulky, and tricky to move. Delivery could mean forklifts, rigging, or cranes depending on the location.And once it’s in the building, you’ll likely need an electrician and HVAC crew to get it wired and vented. Don’t forget to include these costs in your budget—it’s easy to underestimate just how much it takes to install a commercial roaster safely and legally.
Final Thoughts: Take Your Time
At the end of the day, buying a used industrial coffee roaster can be an awesome way to stretch your budget while still getting a solid machine. But it’s not something to rush.
Take your time. Ask questions. Compare options. And don’t be afraid to walk away if something feels off. The right roasting machine won’t just save you money—it’ll help you build the kind of quality and consistency that keeps customers coming back.
Pick wisely, and you’ll be roasting great coffee (and great stories) for years to come.