Trade vs. Sell: What’s the Best Option for Your Old John Deere Equipment?
3/20/2025
Caleb Hennington
When it’s time to upgrade your farm equipment, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is whether to trade or sell your old machinery. At Tennessee Tractor, we’ve helped countless farmers across West Tennessee and beyond navigate this decision, and we know how important it is to weigh your options carefully.
Whether you’re looking to trade tractors for a newer model or sell tractors outright, understanding the pros and cons of each approach can help you maximize the value of your equipment. Let’s look at which option works best for you: trade versus sell.
The Case for Trading Your Equipment
Trading in your old John Deere equipment is often a more convenient option than selling. Tennessee Tractor offers trade-in opportunities that allow you to apply the value of your current machinery toward the cost of new or used equipment. This process can save you time and effort compared to selling outright.
One key advantage of trading is simplicity. When you trade tractors or other equipment, Tennessee Tractor handles much of the work, including appraising your machinery and applying its value directly to your next purchase. For example, if you’re upgrading from a 2012 John Deere 8310R to a newer model like the 2023 John Deere 6155M, trading in can streamline the process and reduce upfront costs.
Another benefit is tax savings. In many cases, sales tax is only applied to the difference between the cost of the new equipment and the trade-in value. This can result in significant savings, especially when purchasing high-value items like combines or compact tractors.
However, trading may not always yield the highest return on your old equipment. While Tennessee Tractor offers competitive trade-in values, selling privately could potentially bring in more cash if you’re willing to invest extra time and effort.
The Case for Selling Your Equipment
Selling your old John Deere equipment usually gives you a higher payout than trading it in. This option gives you full control over pricing and allows you to target buyers who are looking for specific features or models.
If you own a 2022 John Deere S780 combine or a 2019 John Deere XUV 835R utility vehicle, for example, selling directly might get you buyers who are willing to pay premium prices for well-maintained, high-demand models. Platforms like online marketplaces or local auctions can help you connect with interested buyers.
Selling also provides flexibility. You’re not tied to purchasing new equipment immediately, which can be helpful if you’re still deciding on your next investment. And selling outright allows you to negotiate terms directly with buyers, giving you more control over the transaction.
However, selling on your own comes with challenges. It requires more time to list, market, and show your equipment. You’ll also need to handle negotiations and how you receive payment. For busy farmers, these tasks can be a burden rather than trading your equipment at Tennessee Tractor.
What to Consider When Deciding
1. Equipment Condition: The condition of your machinery plays a large role in determining whether trading or selling is a better option. Well-maintained equipment with low hours often gets you a higher price in private sales.
2. Market Demand: Certain models are more desirable than others. For example, compact tractors and zero-turn mowers are highly sought after due to their efficiency on small farms or residential properties.
3. Time Constraints: If you need new equipment quickly, trading might be the better option.
4. Financial Goals: If you want to maximize your cash, selling outright could provide a better return on investment.
5. Tax Implications: Don’t overlook potential tax benefits when trading in at Tennessee Tractor!
Why Choose Tennessee Tractor?
Whether you decide to trade or sell John Deere equipment, partnering with Tennessee Tractor gives you a hassle-free experience backed by expert support. With locations across West Tennessee—including Jackson, Dyersburg, and Union City—we specialize in helping farmers find solutions that meet their needs.
Our inventory includes everything from new models like Gator Utility Vehicles and Z700 Series Zero-Turn Mowers to pre-owned options like the 2021 John Deere Z930M mower. We also offer financing options and extended warranties to help you get the most out of your investment.
We understand that every farmer’s situation is unique. That’s why we take pride in offering personalized guidance as you decide whether to trade tractors for an upgrade or sell them outright.
Trade or Sell at Tennessee Tractor
No matter which route you choose, Tennessee Tractor is here to support you every step of the way. With our extensive selection of new and used John Deere equipment—including compact tractors, combines, and specialty attachments—you’ll find everything you need to keep your operation running smoothly.
Visit us today at one of our West Tennessee locations or explore our inventory online at TennesseeTractor.com to start your journey toward upgrading your farm equipment!