Selling Valves from Closed Facilities: Complete Liquidation Guide
When an industrial facility closes — whether due to market conditions, consolidation, environmental regulations, or end of life — the valve inventory represents one of the most recoverable asset categories. Unlike specialized equipment that may have limited resale markets, industrial valves are universal and always in demand. Here's how to maximize your recovery.
Typical Valve Inventory in Closed Facilities
A medium-sized refinery or chemical plant typically contains:
- 500-2,000 gate valves (2"-24")
- 200-800 control valves with actuators
- 100-400 ball valves
- 100-300 check valves
- 50-200 safety/relief valves
- 50-150 butterfly valves
- Hundreds of small instrument valves
- 50-100 motor operated valves
Total recoverable valve value for a typical facility: $200,000 to $2,000,000+
Liquidation Strategy Options
| Method | Timeline | Recovery % | Effort Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Direct sale to buyer (ValveBuyer.com) | 2-4 weeks | 25-45% | Low — we handle everything |
| Industrial auction | 3-6 months | 15-35% | High — inventory, photos, catalog |
| Piecemeal sale (individual listings) | 6-24 months | 30-55% | Very high — ongoing management |
| Scrap sale (by weight) | 1-2 weeks | 5-15% | Minimal |
Why Direct Sale Maximizes Net Recovery
While auction or piecemeal sales may achieve higher gross prices on individual items, the net recovery after costs often favors direct sale:
- No auction commission (typically 15-25%)
- No storage costs during extended sale period
- No inventory management or listing labor
- No buyer's premium reducing demand
- Immediate cash flow vs. months of waiting
- Single transaction vs. hundreds of individual sales
Our Facility Liquidation Process
- Initial Assessment — Provide us with valve schedules, P&IDs, or a general description of inventory
- Preliminary Offer — We provide a range estimate based on available information
- Site Visit — Our team visits to inventory and assess condition (for lots over $50,000)
- Final Offer — Detailed offer based on actual inventory and condition
- Removal — We handle all removal, rigging, and transport logistics
- Payment — Wire transfer within 48 hours of agreement
What We Buy from Closed Facilities
- All valve types, sizes, and materials
- Actuators (electric, pneumatic, hydraulic)
- Control valve assemblies with positioners
- Safety and relief valves
- Instrument valves and manifolds
- Valve parts and spare components
- Pipe fittings and flanges (when bundled with valves)
Start the Conversation
If your facility is closing or you're managing a liquidation, contact ValveBuyer.com for a no-obligation assessment. The earlier we're involved in the process, the more value we can help you recover.
Call 954-488-0700 or email us through the contact form with any available inventory information.
Ready to Sell Your Surplus Valves?
ValveBuyer.com purchases industrial valves of all types, sizes, and conditions. Same-day quotes, free pickup nationwide.
Call 954-488-0700