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Are Used Drawn Planters Worth It? What to Know Before You Buy

Choosing the right used drawn planter for fields is a decision that impacts seed placement, efficiency, and season success. Before making a purchase, review these key factors, inspection tips, and market price expectations to ensure you invest confidently.

Understand what you need to know before making your next used drawn planter purchase.

Match the Drawn Planter to Farm Needs

The best drawn planter is the one that matches your acres, crop rotation, tractor horsepower, and yield goals. Most growers should consider row count , central-fill vs. box units, method of fertilizer placement, and whether precision ag compatibility (variable rate, monitors, clutches) is needed for maximum ROI.

Specifically for row counts, farmers should consider the following size of planter based on the breakdown of acres below. 

  • Up to 400 acres: Ideal for smaller fields 6 to 8 rows are flexible for odd shaped fields and planting is completed in 7-10 good working days.
  •  400 to 1,200 acres: Good for medium-sized farms 12 row planters have a balance of speed and maneuverability.
  • 1,200 to 2,000 acres: 16 row planters are most efficient for larger farms wanting to complete planting in 5-7 days.
  • 2,000 to 2,800 acres: 24 Row drawn planters matches the needs of high-acre, large field operations for finishing in a 5 to 10 day planting window.
  • 2,800+ acres: 32+ Row drawn planters are designed for very large farms or custom operators who must complete planting rapidly. They provide the lowest timeliness cost at scale but requiring higher horse-power tractors to draw.

General Rules of Thumb for Drawn Planter Size:

    • About 100–120 acres per row is a common target for timely planting with moderate labor and field moves.

    • Odd-shaped or small fields may benefit from smaller row counts for easier maneuvering.

    • Labor and weather windows are critical, choose the largest planter manageable for field layout and tractor size to maximize efficiency in unpredictable planting conditions.

What to Inspect for Precision and Reliability for Used Planters Drawn

Thorough inspection of drawn planter components is essential before purchasing a used drawn planter, you should check:

  • Row Units: Check for excessive wear on seed meters, opener disks (should be above recommended diameters), gauge wheels, and closing wheels. Look for cracks, play, and adjustability.

  • Frame and Markers: Ensure the frame is free of weld repairs, rust, and that folding/unfolding operates smoothly.

  • Drive Systems: Review chains, shafts, and gearboxes for rust, stretching, or noisy operation. Hydraulic and electrical components should be leak-free and all sensors/cabling functional.

  • Seed and Fertilizer Delivery: Central-fill hoppers/tanks and tubes should be clean, smooth, and free of pitting or patching; distribution should work consistently across all rows.

  • Calibration and Electronics: If equipped, test monitor, rate controller, clutches, and control systems for setup and data display.

  • Maintenance Records: Units with detailed histories, recent rebuilds, or documented upgrades offer the greatest long-term value.

Understand Price Ranges and Value Factors for Used Drawn Planters

Used drawn planter prices vary by brand, rows, and condition. Note that used planter prices listed below are guidelines and drawn planters that above or below the prices shown does not mean a used drawn planter is improperly priced. Central-fill, high-row-count, and monitor-equipped units command higher prices. Value is boosted by precision upgrades, low acre count, and strong service records.

  • Small Drawn Planters (6–12 row, basic): Older small used drawn planters typically range in price from $8,000 to $28,000 with newer, late models with advanced features range in price from $28,000 to $45,000.
  • Mid-Size Drawn Planters (16–24 row, central fill, monitors): Older mid-sized used drawn planters are common and typically range in price from $35,000 to $95,000 with newer, 16 to 24 row late models with advanced features range in price from $105,000 to $225,000+. The larger range of pricing is primarily based on what features are included or available to the planter.
  • Large Drawn Planters (High-Tech/Precision, 32+ rows): Large used drawn planters that are older model years range in price from $80,000 to $190,000+ with newer late models with advanced features range in price from $190,000 to $290,000+. The larger range of pricing is primarily based on what features are included or available to the planter.

 

Why Choose Koenig Equipment for a Used Planter: Drawn

Buying your drawn planter from Koenig Equipment means expert pre-sale inspection, setup support, and season-long parts and service backup. Koenig’s technicians understand field demands and help match planters to local crop needs, tractor size, and technology budgets. With deep inventory of used drawn planters and calibration guidance, Koenig keeps your operation field-ready and planting with confidence.

Next Steps to Buying a Used Drawn Planter

Browse our current used Planters: Drawn inventory or contact Koenig Equipment to find the right machine for your operation.