The costs of owning a tractor in the Philippines
Tractors are essential machines for small scale farmers as they help to plow and cultivate land. However, the price tag on tractors is undoubtedly high, and farmers need to invest a lot of money to own one. In the Philippines, purchasing a tractor requires a considerable amount of capital. The cost of the tractor depends on several factors, including the brand, model, fuel type, and the size of the tractor. Let's have a look at some of the factors that affect the cost of tractors in the Philippines.
Factors that affect the cost of tractors in the Philippines
One of the biggest factors affecting the cost of owning a tractor in the Philippines is the brand and model. The price range for new tractors is usually between Php 840,000 ($16,500) to Php 2.6 million ($51,000). The prices vary depending on the brand, model, and the features they come with. For instance, a John Deere tractor model can cost around Php 1.2 million ($23,500), while a Kubota tractor can cost around Php 840,000 ($16,500).
Another factor that affects the cost of owning a tractor is the fuel type. Currently, the Philippines has two primary types of tractors running on either diesel or gasoline. Diesel tractors are usually cheaper compared to gasoline tractors. This is because diesel is cheaper and more accessible in the country compared to gasoline. Also, diesel tractors are easier to maintain, making them ideal for small-scale farmers who cannot afford high maintenance costs.
The size of the tractor also affects the price tag. Smaller tractors with less horsepower tend to be less costly than larger tractors. Small tractors with a horse-power below 50 can cost around Php 840,000 ($16,500), while larger ones with a horsepower of above 75 can cost up to Php 2.6 million ($51,000). Farmers should consider buying tractors according to their farming needs, size of the land, and the terrain.
Purchasing a second-hand tractor in the Philippines
For small-scale farmers who cannot afford to purchase new tractors, buying second-hand tractors can be a viable option. The cost of a second-hand tractor depends on the model, the number of hours used, and the current state of the tractor. Buying a second-hand tractor in the Philippines can cost around Php 400,000 ($7,850) to Php 800,000 ($15,700). Before purchasing a used tractor, farmers should inspect the machine thoroughly to identify any defects that need urgent attention.
Conclusion
Tractors are essential machines for modern-day farming in the Philippines. The cost of buying and maintaining a tractor can be expensive, and farmers should look for ways to cut down on costs. Factors such as brand, model, size, and fuel type influence the cost of purchasing a tractor. Second-hand tractors can be an affordable alternative for small scale farmers who cannot afford to buy new tractors. Farmers must always ensure that they purchase tractors that meet their specific farming needs and that the machine is in good working condition to avoid costly repairs.