We Buy Variable-Frequency Drives (VFDs)

How we review VFDs for purchase

We review qualifying variable-frequency drives for possible purchase. Submitting a drive starts a purchase review; it is not a sale, purchase order, inspection, or authorization to ship. To evaluate efficiently, we need clear, verifiable identification and straightforward condition information so we can determine commercial interest and any next steps.

This page outlines the scope of equipment we commonly review, the identification fields and photos that speed evaluation, how to describe condition without implying performance, and what to include about firmware and data. Following these guidelines reduces back-and-forth and supports a timely, consistent assessment of lot value.

Typical VFD scope — what we consider

We most often review manufacturer-marked AC variable-frequency drives designed for industrial, commercial, or HVAC motor control. Drives with legible part numbers and rating plates — including general-purpose units, regenerative models, and medium-voltage VFDs — may be submitted for review. Manufacturer-identified equipment from common industrial brands and legacy lines is frequently encountered, but submission does not guarantee purchase.

We also consider a range of physical formats and enclosures: panel-mount modules, enclosed panels, and floor-mount cabinets. Drives intended purely for consumer electronics, single-function soft starters that lack adjustable-frequency capability, or equipment missing essential identification may be difficult to evaluate and could be excluded from review unless additional documentation is provided.

• Typical form factors: chassis modules, enclosed panels, floor cabinets
• Common application classes: industrial motor control, HVAC, pumping, conveyors
• Considered across varied voltage and power ranges, subject to verifiable ratings

Exact identification fields we need with every submission

Provide the printed or stamped manufacturer name, full model or part number, and the drive’s serial number or date code. Include nameplate ratings such as nominal input voltage (V), phases (single/three), input frequency (Hz), output voltage, maximum continuous current (A), and rated horsepower or kilowatts. If the nameplate is missing or unreadable, include any other stamped tags, drawings, or purchase records that help verify identity.

Record option codes and accessory cards that can affect capabilities or market value: communication modules, braking resistors, input harmonic filters, enclosure ratings (NEMA/IP), and any installed I/O or control option boards. If a firmware or software version is visible on a label, include it as an identification field only; do not make claims about current support, compatibility, or licensing.

• Manufacturer and full model/part number
• Serial number or date code
• Input voltage, phases, and frequency
• Output current, output voltage, rated HP/kW
• Enclosure rating (NEMA/IP) and cooling type
• Installed options or communication modules
• Visible firmware or PCB revision labels

Describe condition honestly and with consistent terms

Use straightforward, verifiable condition language. Common tags that help sort inventory include: New/Factory-sealed, New/Uninstalled, Excellent (used, minimal wear), Good (used, moderate wear, fully intact), Fair (works but cosmetic or accessory issues), Repairable/For parts, and Unclassified (needs inspection). Avoid subjective marketing adjectives without supporting photos or documentation; objective descriptions reduce confusion and speed appraisal.

When describing operational status, be precise without providing technical instructions. Examples include: “untested,” “power-up status unknown,” “previously installed and removed; no run-time confirmation provided,” or “powered on by seller without load.” Do not provide energized testing procedures, replacement instructions, or safety steps. If a drive was removed from service, you may note whether removal was performed by qualified personnel and whether the unit was associated with process- or safety-critical systems.

• Use one of these tags: New, Excellent, Good, Fair, Repairable/For parts
• State operational status factually: “untested,” “power-up confirmed by seller,” or “no run-time data”
• Note if removal was by qualified technicians and whether documentation accompanies the unit

Photos and lot organization that speed evaluation

Include clear, focused photos of the drive nameplate, front view, terminal or access areas (only if safe and fully de-energized), accessory cards, and any visible damage. Nameplate images are the highest priority because they show the exact part and rating evidence used to match market demand. If options or communication cards are present, photograph their labels and connectors so we can identify aftermarket or factory modules. Aim for legible, glare-free images that capture the complete label.

Organize like items into logical lots and label them consistently. For example, group identical part numbers with contiguous serial numbers into a single lot and provide a simple inventory count. Mixed lots are acceptable; list each part number, condition tag, and quantity in a single inventory sheet attached to your submission. Clear loting reduces processing time and helps determine whether a purchase review will proceed.

• Photo priorities: nameplate, front view, option cards, damaged areas
• Show terminal blocks only when unit is fully de-energized and removed from service
• Group identical drives into lots with part number, serial ranges, and quantity

Firmware and data-handling policy — what we require and why

VFDs may contain parameter sets, PLC-style recipes, event logs, or program data that can represent intellectual property or process control information. Treat drives as data-bearing devices. Do not assume drives are free of stored parameters or process settings; identify and disclose whether the drive contains any customer-specific program data, logs, or parameter backups. If you cannot or will not disclose data content, say so explicitly when submitting.

We do not access or alter firmware or stored data on submitted equipment without a mutually agreed process. If you want drives cleared prior to evaluation, note whether your organization will perform a factory reset or data purge, or whether you can supply documentation showing that a purge occurred. Please ensure your statements about stored data are accurate; submission alone does not confirm that data has been sanitized.

• Disclose presence of parameter sets, custom programs, or historical logs
• State whether drives have been factory-reset or if a documented purge will be provided
• Do not send drives with attached media containing confidential recipes without disclosure
• No firmware/data access or modification without a mutually agreed process

Safety limits and how to submit equipment

Stop and get professional help if a drive shows signs of fire damage, melted wiring, strong odors, arcing marks, or exposed live conductors. Follow the manufacturer’s removal and handling instructions and use appropriately qualified electrical professionals and the authority having jurisdiction for any energized work or lockout procedures. We do not advise on removal or installation and cannot accept submissions that request removal guidance.

To start a review, submit the required identification fields, condition tags, and photos through our inquiry form. A submission initiates a review only; it is not an offer, appraisal, inspection, purchase order, shipping authorization, or payment commitment. If a purchase review proceeds, we may request additional documentation or clarification needed to continue evaluation. Providing complete, accurate details up front generally shortens the review cycle.

• Do not handle live terminals — use qualified personnel for de-energized removal
• Submit nameplate photos, part/serial numbers, condition, and firmware/data disclosures
• A submission is the start of a review, not a purchase or inspection