Printing and converting equipment appraisals.
A printing equipment appraisal from Lukes & Lukes is an independent, USPAP-compliant opinion of value for the pressroom and bindery: offset, digital and flexographic presses, converting lines, and finishing such as cutters, folders and stitchers. The offset-to-digital shift drives value, and many digital presses sit under click-charge or lease agreements, so we confirm what is actually owned first. Each asset is valued by process, format, impressions or click count, condition and the resale market. Built to withstand lender, SBA, IRS, audit and legal review.
What we appraise
The pressroom and bindery.
We value the full print operation, from a single press to an integrated plant, and we confirm ownership and the click or lease model before valuing any digital equipment.
- Offset: sheetfed and web offset presses, by size, units and condition.
- Digital: production inkjet and toner presses and wide-format.
- Flexo and converting: flexographic presses, laminators, coaters and slitters.
- Bindery and finishing: cutters, folders, stitchers, perfect binders and die-cutters.
- Prepress and support: platesetters, RIPs and material handling.
What drives the number
Ownership first, then the offset-to-digital shift.
Many digital presses are placed under click-charge or cost-per-impression agreements where the manufacturer effectively owns the machine, so those are not the shop's assets and we confirm ownership before valuing them. On value, the shift to digital dominates: demand for older offset has fallen, so a sound sheetfed or web offset press may carry modest resale value, while a current production digital press holds more, subject to impressions or click count and print-head life. Format and unit count set the class; bindery and finishing are more durable and trade on a steadier market.
Which value applies
The right premise for the situation.
The same plant carries different numbers depending on why you need the appraisal. We determine and defend the premise your situation requires.
Common questions
Answers, up front.
Why is older offset equipment often worth so little?
Because demand has shifted to digital. An older sheetfed or web offset press can carry modest resale value even if mechanically sound, since fewer buyers want it. Current production digital presses hold more value, subject to impressions or click count and print-head life.
Do you appraise click-charge or leased presses?
Only what is owned. Many digital presses sit under click-charge or lease agreements where the manufacturer effectively owns the machine, so those do not belong in an appraisal of the shop's assets. We confirm ownership and the click or service arrangement first.
What about bindery and finishing equipment?
It is generally more durable and trades on a steadier used market than presses. Cutters, folders, stitchers and binders are valued on type, size, condition and demand for that platform.
Are these appraisals accepted by lenders, the SBA and the courts?
Yes. Reports are USPAP-compliant, prepared by a NEBB-certified Machinery & Equipment Appraiser (CMEA), and built to withstand lender, SBA, IRS, audit and legal review.