How Should You Price and Sell a Dressta TD-8H Dozer

[MikePhua]

Quick Answer
To sell a 2003 Dressta TD-8H dozer effectively, list it on professional equipment platforms, provide detailed specs and photos, and set a price based on verified market data. Craigslist alone won’t reach serious buyers, and auction sites like IronPlanet may offer better exposure and true market value.
Dressta TD-8H Background and Market Position
The Dressta TD-8H is a mid-size crawler dozer originally developed under the Dresser brand before being rebranded by HSW (Huta Stalowa Wola) in Poland. By 2003, the TD-8H was widely used in forestry, construction, and land-clearing operations. It features a 6-way PAT (Power Angle Tilt) blade, hydrostatic transmission, and a compact footprint ideal for tight terrain. Dressta machines are known for mechanical simplicity and ruggedness, though resale value can vary due to brand recognition.
Key Specifications for the 2003 Model

• Operating weight: ~17,000 lbs
  
• Engine: Cummins 4BT or equivalent, ~80–100 hp
  
• Undercarriage: 17" track shoes, 65% remaining life
  
• Attachments: Rear ripper, front sweeps, roller guards
  
• Protection: Forestry exhaust, vandalism covers
  
• Hours: ~3,600
  

These features make the machine suitable for forestry and land management, especially with the added guarding and ripper setup.
Pricing Strategy and Market Data
The seller paid $17,000 and hoped to recover that amount. However, pricing must reflect current market conditions:

• Auction averages: $22,000–$25,000 for similar units in good condition
  
• Dealer listings: $24,000–$28,000 depending on hours and undercarriage
  
• Private sale range: $16,000–$21,000 if sold locally without dealer markup
  

Factors affecting price:

• Undercarriage wear: 65% remaining is decent, but buyers will want verification
  
• Hours: 3,600 is moderate for a 2003 unit
  
• Attachments: Rippers and sweeps add value
  
• Brand: Dressta has lower recognition than CAT or Deere, which may affect resale
  

Where to List the Machine

• MachineryTrader: Industry standard for equipment resale
  
• IronPlanet: Auction-based, often yields true market value
  
• MyLittleSalesman: Good for contractor visibility
  
• EquipmentTrader: Broader audience, includes rental fleets
  
• Craigslist: Low conversion rate, but worth maintaining for local buyers
  

Avoid relying solely on Craigslist. Professional platforms attract serious buyers and offer better exposure.
Improving the Listing

• Use correct terminology: “6-way blade” or “PAT blade”
  
• Clarify undercarriage rating: Is 65% remaining or 65% worn?
  
• Include high-resolution photos of blade, tracks, cab, and engine
  
• Offer service history or mechanic inspection reports
  
• Mention if the machine is original or has rebuilt components
  

Auction vs Direct Sale

• Auction benefits: Fast sale, market-driven pricing, wide exposure
  
• Risks: No control over final price unless reserve is set
  
• Direct sale benefits: Higher potential return, more negotiation control
  
• Risks: Longer time to sell, more effort required
  

If the machine is paid off and not generating income, auctioning may be preferable. Otherwise, listing with a firm price and waiting for the right buyer can yield better returns.
Field Anecdote
A seller in Louisiana listed a similar TD-8H with 4,500 hours and an enclosed cab for $28,500 AUD. It sold within weeks, showing that niche buyers value forestry-ready machines. The key was clear photos, verified specs, and listing on multiple platforms.
Conclusion
Selling a Dressta TD-8H dozer requires strategic pricing, professional listings, and clear communication. With the right exposure and accurate specs, sellers can recover their investment or even exceed expectations. Persistence, platform choice, and presentation are the pillars of a successful sale.