Euro Auctions reveals European access buying habits

The recent Euro Auctions sale in Dormagen, Germany, held 27-29 August, was a clear indicator of how disposals in the lifting and access market is evolving, using auctions.

Confidence is high, stock availability remains strong, with operators and OEMs increasingly turning to auctions, according to Scott McCall, Euro Auctions, Lifting and Access Sales Manager.

Booms line up at Euro Auctions site. (Image: EuroAuctions).

More than 400 pieces of lifting and access equipment were consigned to the sale, including some highly niche models. Among the standout consignments was a significant release from Genie, comprising over 20 unused electric rough terrain man lifts, machines from 2022 through to 2025 machines.

“Such consignments demonstrate the growing trend among OEMs to work with Euro Auctions to dispose of aged inventory in volume, reaching a global buyer base in over 100 countries rather than relying on fragmented local sales, a strategy is paying off,” said McCall. 

“One clear example of market confidence was the sale of a 2025 Genie Z62/40 for €62,000 effectively matching its new, retail price, underlining the acceptance of auction as a trusted, mainstream disposal channel for even the newest stock.”

Competitive bidding 

Even specialist and niche models sold strongly, with consignments also routed to Abu Dhabi where demand continues to be equally robust. McCall added, “Bidding in Dormagen was competitive across the board, with low-hour machines in particularly high demand, with even 2017 and 2018 models fetching excellent prices, reflecting a notable uplift in values compared with earlier in the year. A substantial proportion of stock continues to flow into Eastern Europe, where demand for reliable, well-maintained lifting and access equipment remains buoyant.”

A defining market shift in Europe has been the cooling appetite for Chinese-manufactured access equipment, according to Euro Auctions. Once attractive for their lower purchase prices, EU tariffs and pricing pressures have now eroded their cost advantage, leaving EU buyers to favour established Western brands.

Regional variations 

McCall providres his observations on the experiences of different countries and regions.

Germany: “The demand for electric and hybrid access platforms is rising sharply, driven by tightening emissions regulations and site restrictions. Electric scissor lifts and hybrid booms are increasingly prioritised over diesel units, especially for urban construction projects,” 

Europe and Global: “The strongest resale values are currently seen in low-hour booms (40ft – 60ft) and compact electric scissors, reflecting demand across logistics, warehousing, and data centre construction.”

Eastern Europe: “Continued appetite for cost-effective, used access platforms, with operators seeking reliable mid-life equipment.”

Middle East and Gulf: “Strong demand for rough terrain booms and telehandlers, fuelled by large-scale infrastructure and leisure projects.”

North America: “Supply shortages are keeping values high for late-model JLG, Skyjack and Genie units.”