With the 2023 planting season coming into view and already in motion in some states,
producers are focused on planter maintenance, repairs and evaluating other upgrades
to ensure their equipment is field-ready this spring.
“Given current market conditions, the main consideration for planter upgrades in 2023
is time,” says Chris Schimke, an AgDirect territory manager in South Dakota and
Nebraska. “If you’re looking for new planters its likely going to be 2024
before it gets manufactured. High quality used planters are available and are
likely your best option.”
Of course, with demand for new planters currently exceeding supply, quality used
planters are also in high demand, creating additional pricing pressure and competition
in the marketplace.
A majority of used planters hit the auction market each year between December and
March. According to Schimke, many producers are opting to pay cash for their
auction purchases, however financing activity remains strong.
Across other equipment buying avenues including dealerships and private party
purchases, Schimke says the most noticeable financing trend is producers opting
for a 72 or 84 month term rather than the 36 or 60 month terms most buyers are
accustomed to due to price increases.
Latest in planter tech
“Another consideration is whether to upgrade your current planter with the latest
technology,” says Schimke. “This may be the most cost-effective method of
upgrading, but again time is a factor as the shops that install these upgrades
are experiencing heavy workloads and parts availability can be limited due to
demand.”
Variable-rate technology at the individual row level, for example, continues to be an area of
interest for producers looking to maximize yields and their machinery investments.
Others have added the capability to apply more than just seed and fertilizer
with their planter pass.
“The planting window is limited, so the more you can accomplish with the planter
pass the better,” Schimke says. “Technology enables producers to divide their
fields into smaller zones than before, making it possible to manage each zone
more intensively, not only through population but also with multiple hybrids
and variable rate fertilizer application.”
All of the major equipment manufacturers now offer some variation of the “speed
tube” which allows for planting speeds of 10 mph or more, as well as adjustable
row cleaners, hydraulic downforce and adjustable furrow closing technology.
These products all focus on optimizing accurate seed placement and furrow
closing with the intent of achieving even emergence.
When it comes to planter technology the sky is the limit, but Schimke points out
many times a planter doesn’t need a complete retrofit.
“Only add the upgrades that will provide the outcomes you are looking for, and if you
choose to upgrade instead of buying new, make sure your current toolbar is up
to the task,” he advises. “It’s also a good idea to start the process early and
consult with your trusted advisors, such as your equipment dealer or
agronomist, to determine which technologies best fulfill your needs.”
“AgDirect offers a wide array of loans and leases on new and used planters, drills, air
seeders, air carts and more with terms ranging from 2 to 7 years,” Schimke
adds. “No matter where you buy planting equipment, we can match payments to you
cashflow with a variety of lease options, or lower the overall cost of
ownership with a loan that retains trade equity.”
Apply online, check rates, quote
payments and compare options with the free AgDirect Mobile application, or learn more about
AgDirect equipment financing by locating your nearest AgDirect territory
manager or contact the AgDirect financing team at 888-525-9805.