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What to Know When Buying Used Header Carts

Before investing in a used header cart, farm operations should understand the key features, popular brands, inspection points, and cost expectations that impact field performance and hauling safety.

Shopping for a used Header Carts to keep your harvest moving and on schedule? Understand what you need to know before making your next used header cart purchase.

Understand Header Cart Sizing and Compatibility

The first priority is matching the cart’s length, axle spacing, and cradle system to the specific header and combine you'll be transporting. Carts are often brand/model-specific, so verify fit for draper, flex, or corn head widths (most common at 25–52 ft), and confirm mounting points are compatible with your header’s frame.

The Most Popular Header Cart Brands

Farms frequently rely on brands like Unverferth, Demco, J&M, E-Z Trail, Maurer, MD Products, Horst, and Dose for header carts. These manufacturers offer solid weld quality, adjustable cradles, and strong aftermarket parts support. Each of these brands will offer their own unique feature, so know which is best suited for your specific platforms or needs.

Know What to Inspect for Reliability and Safety On Used Header Carts

Checking the physical condition of a used header cart is essential for road and field safety:

  • Frame, Welds, and Axles: Inspect frame tubes, welds, cross-members, and the hitch or tongue for bends, cracks, or rust. Prior repairs are acceptable if done correctly.

  • Tires and Hubs: Look for straight axles, sound wheel bearings, and tires with good tread (esp. for road travel).

  • Lights and Safety Chains: Confirm that transport lights, reflectors, and chains are present and functioning—they are legally required during road moves.

  • Adjustability: Ensure adjustable saddles, width, and tie-down systems accommodate different header models and lock in place securely.

  • Paint and Rust: Clean paint and minimal rust help with longevity and overall appearance.

 Price Ranges and Value Factors For Used Header Carts

Header cart prices vary by length, brand, and condition, note that used cart prices listed below are guidelines and carts that above or below the prices shown does not mean a used header cart is improperly priced. Factors that boost value include adjustable cradles, good rubber, working lights, and documented repairs/upgrades.

  • Short/Basic Models (up to 30 ft): $2,500 to $8,000, used for most header types and includes various brands such as J &M, E-Z Trail, and more.

  • Mid-length (30–42 ft): $8,500 to $15,000 for most popular models like Unverferth AWS and Demco HT carts.

  • Extra-long/Specialty (up to 52 ft): $16,000 to $25,000 plus, with new or premium carts sometimes listing upward of $23,000 to $32,000.

Why Buy a Used Header Cart from Koenig Equipment?

Koenig Equipment ensures service-supported header carts so you can travel confidently between fields and farms:

  • Thorough Inspection: Carts are checked for weld integrity, axle condition, lights, and fit across popular header models.

  • Brand Selection: Extensive inventory of proven names such as Unverferth, Demco, J&M, Maurer, that are ready for various styles of combine platforms.

  • Dealer Support: Help with setup, sourcing replacement cradles, safety chains, and in-season transport needs.

  • Peace of Mind: Every purchase includes setup guidance and ongoing support, so your headers stay safe and usable season after season.

Next Steps to Finding Your Next Used Header Cart

Browse our current used Header Carts inventory or contact Koenig Equipment to find the right machine for your operation.