Fertiliser spreaders: be specific about controls and corrosion
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A fertiliser spreader description should tell a buyer which machine and controls are offered, what materials it has handled and what is known about its condition. "Some surface rust" is a conclusion that may go beyond the available evidence.
Record the model and serial number first. Then identify the fitted spreading components and controls from the applicable records. Keep any loose spare discs, vanes or other parts separate until their association is confirmed.
Photograph condition by location
Create a photo map so the description can refer to precise areas:
| Photo group | What it should show | What to record alongside it |
|---|---|---|
| Overall machine | Current configuration and identity | Date and asset reference |
| Hopper and accessible interior | Safely visible surfaces | Location of deposits or corrosion |
| Frame and mounting area | Accessible structural areas | Repairs or observations requiring assessment |
| Fitted spreading components | Identifiable parts without disturbance | Markings and documented configuration |
| Controls and cables | Included items arranged clearly | Model, reference and known association |
| Specific concern | The exact area named in the condition note | Observation or specialist finding |
Only take photographs from safe access. Do not enter, dismantle or reposition equipment to expose a hidden area without the appropriate arrangements.
Describe what can be seen: location, extent visible in the image and whether an assessment exists. Avoid guessing the depth of corrosion or the strength of an affected component.
Match the control equipment to the machine
List the control box or terminal, any included cables and relevant instructions. State whether the equipment is dedicated to the spreader or shared.
The seed drill control sheet offers a useful inventory method, but its component list does not establish what this spreader requires. Ask the maker or dealer about an uncertain association.
Where a connected display is included, use the precision farming handover guide to separate hardware from data, account access and services. Do not promise a function solely because an icon appears on the screen.
Keep material history and cleaning evidence together
Record known previous materials and the source of the information. Preserve product documents where relevant to a specialist's assessment. If a cleaning or service provider has supplied records, retain the date and actual scope.
An apparently empty hopper does not prove that every part is free of residue. Avoid substituting appearance for evidence.
HSE's agricultural maintenance guidance explains why cleaning and maintenance require planned safe work. Ask an appropriate provider what assessment or preparation is needed; this article does not provide a cleaning method or rate-setting instructions.
Link old repairs to current observations
A useful condition note might say: "Corrosion is visible around the area in photograph 7. The owner reports a repair in 2021; the available invoice does not identify the work area." That is more useful than choosing a reassuring condition grade.
If the spreader has remained unused, include the storage history and identify the last known operation. A previous calibration or service result should retain its date and configuration, without a claim about current spread performance.
Send the photo map, controller list and material history to UK Auction Group's agriculture service. Identify the areas needing specialist assessment so the proposed description and sale route can be based on the evidence available.
Sources
This guide gives general information. Equipment-specific, legal, tax and safety decisions may need a qualified adviser or competent specialist. The guides do not promise sale prices, fees or results.