How to compare condition, maintenance, features, documentation, and total value 

Used and pre-owned ambulance stretchers can help organizations replace aging equipment, add fleet capacity, and obtain powered patient transport equipment at a lower acquisition cost. The quality of the purchase depends on how the individual unit was evaluated and prepared. 

Buyer Trust Principle
Focus on the actual equipment, inspection, preventive maintenance, repairs, functional testing, documentation, and support. Labels alone do not establish condition or future performance. 

 

Define the Operational Need 

Start with the patient population, call or transport environment, crew workflow, ambulance configuration, fleet standardization goals, powered or manual preference, and available budget. 

Understand the Egotie USA Used Standard 

At Egotie USA, used and pre-owned mean the same thing. Units undergo inspection, preventive maintenance, functional testing, and necessary servicing. Repairs and component replacements are completed when the individual stretcher requires them. 

Review the Core Systems 

For powered cots, review lift and hydraulic operation, battery and electrical controls, mobility, brakes, frame, siderails, mattress and restraints, accessories, and loading-system compatibility. For manual cots, review the corresponding mechanical, locking, rolling, and patient-support components. 

Request Condition Information 

Ask for actual-unit photos, video where available, model and serial information, listed accessories, inspection details, known wear, repair information, warranty terms, and shipping expectations. 

Compare Total Cost and Value 

Account for immediate service needs, battery or charger requirements, missing accessories, freight, installation, preventive maintenance, future parts, and downtime risk. A prepared used stretcher may offer better value than an unchecked lower-priced alternative. 

Recognize Normal Wear 

Used equipment may show scratches, scuffs, finish wear, or label wear. Buyers should distinguish cosmetic evidence of prior service from mechanical, electrical, or structural concerns. 

Choose a Transparent Supplier 

A knowledgeable supplier should explain the condition of the actual unit, the work performed, what is included, applicable limitations, and available support without relying on vague claims. 

Questions Buyers Should Ask 

  • What is the model and serial number? 
  • What inspection and preventive maintenance were completed? 
  • What repairs or component replacements were performed? 
  • Which functions were tested after service? 
  • What accessories, records, warranty terms, and shipping arrangements are included? 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Why buy used? 

Used equipment may offer lower acquisition cost and faster fleet replacement or expansion. 

What makes a used stretcher trustworthy? 

Clear inspection, PM, testing, repair, documentation, and disclosure. 

Is refurbished required for reliability? 

No. Properly prepared used equipment may provide dependable service. 

What should be in writing? 

Condition, included items, price, warranty terms, freight terms, and any known limitations. 

Final Thoughts 

A confident equipment purchase begins with clear information. Buyers should evaluate the actual unit, the work completed before sale, its compatibility, included components, documentation, and continued maintenance needs. Egotie USA’s goal is to provide properly prepared used, pre-owned, and refurbished equipment with transparent information that supports an informed decision. 

About the Author 

Written by Emmanuel A. 

Owner, Egotie USA, a Division of Egotie Inc. 

Egotie USA specializes in used, pre-owned, and refurbished Stryker stretchers, Power-PRO XT stretchers, Power-LOAD systems, equipment inspections, preventive maintenance, repairs, and EMS equipment support throughout the United States. 

10220 Georgibelle Dr., Houston, TX 77043 | 832-598-4204 | emmanuel.a@egotieusa.com