Buying guide

Buying a used CNC machining centre: the checklist

Published on October 12, 2026

Vertical, horizontal or 5-axis: the essential checks before buying a used machining centre, from the spindle to the geometry.

A well-maintained used machining centre can keep producing for many years. Yet its spindle and geometry account for most of its value, and a repair can be very expensive. Here is what to check, in order.

Capacities

X, Y, Z travels, table dimensions and maximum table load.
Vertical, horizontal (with pallets) or 5-axis (rotary tilting table or swivelling head).
Tool taper (for example SK40, BT40, HSK63) compatible with your existing tooling.
Spindle speed and power suited to your materials.
Number of pockets in the tool magazine.

The spindle, the most important point

Spindle hours and date of the last overhaul.
Gradual run-up in speed, without noise or vibration, then a check of the heating.
Runout measured on a test mandrel.
Correct operation of the tool clamping and of the through-spindle coolant, if fitted.

Geometry and axes

Axis backlash, the condition of the ballscrews and guideways, and positioning accuracy can all be measured. A circularity test (ballbar) or the measurement of a test part gives an objective picture. On a 5-axis machine, also check the accuracy of the rotary axes.

History and control

Known crashes: a crash can distort the geometry or damage the spindle.
Maintenance log and replaced parts.
Make and version of the CNC control, active options, parameter backup.
Recurring alarm messages in the control's history.

Peripherals and installation

Chip conveyor, pallet system, measuring probes, filtration unit: check their condition and whether they are included. Also note the required electrical power, compressed air consumption, and the weight and dimensions for transport.