As the agriculture industry heads into the heart of the 2025 growing season, uncertainty around new equipment availability and pricing continues to shape the machinery market. According to the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM), U.S. sales of agricultural tractors fell 17.7% in February 2025, while combine sales dropped 48% year-over-year. These declines reflect continued caution among buyers and a softening of demand across major equipment categories.
In this environment, more producers are turning to online auctions as a smart alternative — particularly when sourcing high-quality used equipment. Buying at auction often provides faster access to well-maintained machinery at competitive prices, bypassing long lead times and premium price tags often associated with new equipment purchases.
April’s Top 10 Prove Strong Demand for Late-Model Used Equipment
At BigIron and Sullivan Auctioneers, we continue to see impressive results in the used market. In fact, April’s Top 10 Sales tell a clear story: buyers are still willing to invest in quality, well-maintained equipment when it's competitively priced and transparently sold.
Here’s a look at April’s top 10 sales:
- 2020 John Deere 8R 370 MFWD Tractor – $228,750
- 2019 Case IH Magnum 340 CVT MFWD Tractor – $220,000
- 2018 Case IH Magnum 340 MFWD Tractor – $215,250
- 2021 John Deere R4044 Self-Propelled Sprayer – $191,750
- 2018 Challenger 1050 MFWD Tractor – $190,250
- 2018 CLAAS Lexion 740TT 4WD Combine – $169,205
- 2018 John Deere 772GP AWD Motor Grader – $165,000
- 2004 Case IH STX500 QuadTrac Track Tractor – $161,000
- 2023 John Deere 6155M MFWD Tractor w/Loader – $156,250
- 2016 Massey Ferguson 8732 MFWD Tractor – $151,750
What Do These Numbers Reveal?
Buyers across the U.S. — and beyond — are staying active in the used market, prioritizing dependability and value over sticker-shock pricing on new models. Plus, with the global market opening more opportunities for international buyers and sellers, the reach of our online auction platform has never been more powerful.
Why Sellers Should Take Notice
If you're considering selling, now may be your moment. With equipment inventories still tight and prices holding strong, listing your assets on a trusted auction platform like BigIron and Sullivan Auctioneers puts your machines in front of thousands of motivated global bidders — no hauling, no hidden fees, just clear, competitive results.
Why Buyers Keep Showing Up
Buyers appreciate the transparency of online auctions and the opportunity to compare similar makes and models side-by-side. They can purchase on their own terms, without dealership pressure or delays. And with the variety of financing options available, buying at auction is more accessible than ever.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
Whether you're in the market to buy or sell, staying plugged into the latest equipment trends can help you make smarter, more profitable decisions. Visit bigiron.com to browse upcoming auctions and explore thousands of available listings across tractors, combines, sprayers, graders, and more.
Sources:
Association of Equipment Manufacturers. “U.S. Sales of Ag Tractors & Combines Decline in February 2025.” AEM Newsroom, March 11, 2025
