Finding Equipment Graveyards in the Northwest: What to Know

[MikePhua]

When searching for an equipment graveyard—an area where old, out-of-service machinery is stored—finding the right location can be a challenge, particularly in less populated regions. Equipment graveyards are places where construction, agricultural, and industrial equipment that has reached the end of its useful life is sent. These areas play an essential role in the lifecycle of heavy machinery, providing an opportunity for parts to be salvaged, recycled, or repurposed. If you're in the market for used parts, or simply curious about the industry’s past, knowing how to find these locations can be invaluable.
What is an Equipment Graveyard?
An equipment graveyard, also referred to as a machinery junkyard or salvage yard, is a site where decommissioned equipment—such as bulldozers, excavators, trucks, and more—are stored once they are no longer operational. Some graveyards specialize in a specific type of machinery, while others may be more general. These locations often house a range of machines that might be stripped for spare parts, refurbished, or dismantled for recycling.
In a typical equipment graveyard, you can expect to find:

• Old, out-of-service equipment: Everything from heavy machinery like backhoes and dozers to trucks and cranes.
  
• Salvageable parts: Many of the engines, hydraulics, tires, and other components can be used in repairs or upgrades.
  
• Recycling facilities: Some graveyards may have processes in place to break down metal and other materials for resale or reuse.
  

These graveyards serve multiple purposes: they are essential to the resale market for used parts, they help reduce environmental impact by recycling metals and components, and they also provide an affordable solution to fleet operators looking for cheaper parts.
Why Find an Equipment Graveyard?
Whether you are a fleet manager, a mechanic, or an individual enthusiast, there are several reasons to seek out an equipment graveyard:

• Access to Spare Parts: Many of the machines in these graveyards have components that are still valuable and can be used to repair operational machines. Hydraulic pumps, gears, and tires are just a few examples of parts that can be salvaged.
  
• Cost-Effective Repairs: Repairing heavy equipment can be expensive, and getting parts from a graveyard can significantly reduce costs. Parts are often available at a fraction of the cost of new ones.
  
• Sustainability: By reusing parts, you are contributing to a more sustainable approach to equipment management. It reduces the need for new materials and minimizes waste.
  
• Historical Insight: Graveyards also offer a glimpse into the past. Older models of equipment, which might no longer be in circulation, can often be found here. Collectors or those interested in vintage machinery may find historical models with unique features or design.
  

Challenges in Finding Equipment Graveyards
Locating an equipment graveyard, especially in a specific region like the Northwest, can be difficult. These sites are not always advertised or easy to find due to several reasons:

• Local Regulations: Equipment graveyards are subject to environmental and zoning laws. These regulations might limit where and how they can operate, making it harder to locate them.
  
• Limited Access: Many graveyards are private, and access to them may require permission or an existing relationship with the owner. Some sites may be restricted to commercial customers only.
  
• Lack of Advertising: Unlike dealerships or rental companies, many equipment salvage yards do not advertise publicly. Word of mouth or industry connections are often the best way to find them.
  

Where to Look for Equipment Graveyards in the Northwest?
While it can be tricky to locate an equipment graveyard in the Northwest, a few avenues can help make the search more manageable:

• Industry Contacts: One of the best ways to find a graveyard is through people in the industry. Mechanics, fleet managers, and other professionals in the heavy equipment sector often know where to find the best salvage yards.
  
• Online Marketplaces: Websites such as eBay, Craigslist, and specialized machinery forums can sometimes provide leads on locations or listings from salvage yards.
  
• Equipment Auctions: Some equipment graveyards may participate in auction events where they sell used parts or machines. Auction houses, particularly those dealing in industrial and construction equipment, could have valuable information.
  
• Local Equipment Dealers: Even if dealers primarily sell new machinery, they might have information on where to find used parts or decommissioned equipment.
  
• Social Media Groups and Forums: Many online forums and groups on platforms like Facebook and Reddit are dedicated to the heavy equipment community. These forums can be a great resource for getting recommendations for equipment graveyards.
  

Popular Northwest Locations for Equipment Graveyards
In the Pacific Northwest, a region known for its construction and forestry industries, there are a few prominent areas that may house equipment salvage yards:

• Washington: As a hub for the timber and construction industries, Washington has several equipment salvage yards, particularly in cities like Seattle and Spokane. There are also yards in more rural areas serving the agriculture and forestry sectors.
  
• Oregon: Portland and Eugene are notable cities with heavy equipment salvage yards, as the state is home to a number of construction and logging operations.
  
• Idaho: As an emerging center for mining and agriculture, Idaho may have a variety of salvage yards catering to those industries. Cities like Boise or Twin Falls could have salvage operations as well.
  
• British Columbia: For those in Canada, British Columbia has a number of equipment yards, especially in Vancouver, Abbotsford, and other industrial cities.
  

While these are some general areas where equipment graveyards are commonly found, it’s important to do research and contact local resources for more precise information.
How to Make the Most of an Equipment Graveyard
Once you find an equipment graveyard, you need to approach the experience wisely to get the best value:

• Know What You Need: Before you visit, make a list of the parts or machines you’re looking for. It helps to have specific information on part numbers, machine models, and any other details that can streamline the search process.
  
• Inspect Parts Carefully: Not all parts in a graveyard will be in good condition. Inspect the components carefully to ensure they meet the standards required for your repairs or refurbishments.
  
• Negotiate Prices: Since many parts in a graveyard are used, don’t hesitate to negotiate prices. These parts are typically priced lower than new ones, but there may be some room for further discounts.
  
• Check for Warranties: Some salvage yards offer warranties on their parts, while others may sell them as-is. Be sure to clarify these details before making a purchase.
  

Conclusion
Finding an equipment graveyard in the Northwest can be a rewarding process, whether you are looking for affordable parts, vintage machinery, or simply want to reduce the environmental impact of the construction and agricultural industries. By utilizing local contacts, online resources, and industry-specific knowledge, you can track down valuable equipment and components to keep your fleet running efficiently. It’s a treasure hunt for anyone who works with heavy machinery, offering a mix of practical solutions and fascinating historical insights.