There is no single value for a machine without a purpose, premise and effective date. Insurance, financing, tax, litigation, orderly liquidation and a contemplated sale may require different work.
AppraisalA defined assignment for stated users, purpose, premise and date
Market briefCurrent and historical context for a commercial decision
Dealer offerA purchase proposal reflecting risk, margin and terms
Asking priceA source's stated price, not proof of a completed sale
Purpose controls the assignment
A lender, insurer, court, tax adviser, buyer and seller may ask different questions. State the intended use, intended users, subject asset, ownership interest, effective date and required standard before engaging an appraiser.
Market price is an observation
An asking price records what a seller requested, not what a buyer paid. A dealer offer can include margin, risk and convenience. An auction result can reflect time pressure, buyer premium, lotting and removal terms. Each is evidence with context, not a universal answer.
Inspect the exact asset
Configuration, control, options, hours, service, geometry, condition, location, removal and available records can affect relevance. A model-level estimate should be labeled accordingly when the exact machine has not been inspected.
Request the correct deliverable
If a formal appraisal is required, verify the appraiser's qualification, scope, standard, independence and report format. If the need is a current market decision, a documented market brief may be the more appropriate starting point.
Machine Blue Book is an independent information and research service. It does not replace a qualified attorney, accountant, appraiser, engineer, inspector, broker, auctioneer, lender, carrier, rigger, manufacturer or other responsible professional for the actual transaction.
