Selling checkout counters and service desks
- Topic
- Retail and catering
- Reading time
- 3 minutes
- Last reviewed
On this page
A checkout counter can contain several separate assets: the furniture, till hardware, cash drawer, scanner, payment terminal and connected services. Define each boundary before offering the counter as one lot.
A buyer looking at a photograph may reasonably notice all those items. The description should say which are included, which belong to a provider and which the business retains.
Draw a counter boundary map
Sketch the counter from above. Mark each module, join, return and service opening. Give separate references to devices and any fixed equipment. Then make a simple inclusion record.
| Element | Record | Sale status |
|---|---|---|
| Furniture module | Dimensions, finish, condition and connection to adjacent units | Included by reference |
| Cash drawer and keys | Identity, keys and ownership | Included, retained or unresolved |
| EPOS screen, computer or scanner | Individual device reference | Subject to data and account release |
| Payment terminal | Provider and ownership evidence | Return or sale only as authorised |
| Conveyor or powered component | Model and safety records | Separate assessment and scope |
| Wiring or network equipment | Named equipment and connection boundary | Included only where agreed |
Do not classify every cable behind the counter as part of the sale. Some may serve retained devices or the building.
Check modules and dimensions
Measure each section and the overall assembled shape. Include projections, raised customer shelves and access gates. State whether joints can be separated based on actual construction evidence; do not promise flat-pack collection because a join line is visible.
The retail fittings guide covers shelves and loose components that may form part of the counter arrangement. Keep their counts tied to the correct module.
Photograph internal cupboards and drawers after checking for documents, keys and personal items. Record missing doors, damaged hinges or previous alterations that affect the unit's use.
Release the devices separately
Use the EPOS disposal checklist for customer information, accounts, software and provider-owned hardware. A counter can be physically ready while an attached terminal remains on hold.
The ICO asset-management guidance supports maintaining accurate hardware inventories and evidence of secure disposal. Reconcile device serials at removal so an uncleared spare computer does not leave with a cleared counter.
Do not assume software subscriptions transfer with the furniture or screen. Confirm the provider's process and describe hardware inclusions without promising account access.
Assign disconnection and preparation
List electrical and data connections in the contractor brief. Identify what must stay live for the remaining business and who will approve release.
The disconnection responsibility guide helps allocate the work. Under HSE's electrical guidance, work needs appropriate competence and planning. A carrier collecting furniture should not be expected to identify or alter unfamiliar wiring.
Allow time between final trading and collection for cash removal, document checks, device processing and service preparation. Avoid promising that a live checkout will be ready immediately after the last transaction.
Reconcile the final lot
At handover, compare the physical counter and devices with the agreed inclusion map. Record any changed module, removed terminal or missing key before release.
Send UK Auction Group the map, dimensions and device-clearance status. A clear furniture boundary lets the sale proceed while specific provider or data questions are resolved, without implying that every visible item is included.
Sources
- ICO asset management guidance Checked
- HSE work on electrical equipment Checked
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.