Farmers’ preference for the harvesting performance that is offered with flexing draper headers is being reflected in the valuations of used platforms and it shows that there is a definite draper depreciation advantage.
Below is a comparison of the present value of four types of 2015 model year grain headers of all makes and models. The three-year difference in depreciation reveals the growing popularity of draper headers vs. auger headers. The table illustrates that flexing drapers are holding their value 5% points better than the rigid auger headers.
2015 Combine Headers of all Widths
| Header Type |
Average New Selling Price in 2015 |
Used Cash Value in 2018 |
Percentage Depreciation |
| Flex Draper |
$81,151 |
$50,980 |
37% |
| Rigid Draper |
$73,152 |
$45,586 |
38% |
| Flex Auger |
$40,117 |
$24,356 |
39% |
| Rigid Auger |
$40,980 |
$23,676 |
42% |
When you look specifically at the widest headers (shown in the chart below), the same story plays out with average three-year depreciation of the flex draper at 37% vs. 41% depreciation of the rigid auger style. Obviously, the average new selling price goes up on these big platforms, as well. The price was as high as $88,973 for the average 40+-foot flexing draper back in 2015.
2015 Combine Headers 40′ and Wider
| Header Type |
Average New Selling Price in 2015 |
Used Cash Value in 2018 |
Percentage Depreciation |
| Flex Draper |
$88,973 |
$56,450 |
37% |
| Rigid Draper |
$82,144 |
$51,489 |
37 |
| Rigid Auger |
$72,724 |
$46,622 |
41% |
As you would expect, brand plays a part in depreciation. Take advantage of two free appraisals being offered by Iron Solution (see below) to find out how a particular make and model is valued today. You can also check out the
availability of platforms in your area by going to IronSearch.com.
Is the increased performance offered by draper headers worth the expense? Only you can answer that. The online community has some interesting perspectives on this question at
community.Agriculture.com.
And for information on what your equipment is worth visit
IronAppraiser.com
View the entire article on Successful Farming, under the Machinery Insider column.
What do you think? Have questions? Contact Us!
