How to buy used disability equipment safely in Canada

Buying used disability equipment can save you a lot of money and keep good gear out of the landfill. A little care up front means you get something that is safe, works well, and actually fits your needs.

Why buying used makes sense

New mobility and accessibility equipment is expensive, and much of it is barely used before a person's needs change. A manual wheelchair, a portable ramp, or a shower bench that cost hundreds of dollars new often sells for a fraction of that secondhand, in great condition. Buying used also keeps sturdy, repairable equipment in circulation instead of being thrown out, which is better for your budget and for the environment.

Where to look

Able Gear is a free, Canada-wide place to find disability equipment for sale, for free, or wanted. You can also check local charities and equipment loan programs, hospital or Red Cross lending pools, community boards, and general classifieds. On Able Gear you can browse by category and province so you see what is available near you.

What to check before you buy, by category

Every category has a few things worth a close look. Inspect the item in person and try it out before you hand over any money.

• Wheelchairs and mobility aids: check the frame for cracks, bends, or rust, especially around welds and joints. Test the wheels and casters for wobble, and make sure the brakes grip firmly. On a power chair or scooter, ask how old the batteries are, how long a charge lasts, and whether the charger is included. Batteries are often the most expensive part to replace.
• Ramps: confirm the weight rating covers the user plus the device, and check that the surface is not slippery and the edges are not bent or cracked. For folding or threshold ramps, make sure they sit flat and stable with no rocking.
• Beds, lifts, and slings: test that motors raise and lower smoothly and quietly, check hand controls and any remote, and look closely at slings, straps, and hooks for fraying or damage. These items support a person's full weight, so anything worn is a reason to walk away.
• Daily-living aids: for items like commodes, shower chairs, and transfer benches, check for stable legs, secure rubber tips, and no cracks in plastic. Make sure anything that touches skin can be cleaned properly.

Questions to ask the seller

• How old is it, and how much was it used?
• Why are you selling it, and is everything included (charger, manual, parts)?
• Has it ever been repaired, and are there any known issues?
• What are the brand, model, and weight capacity?
• Can I see it working and try it before I pay?

Meeting safely

Arrange to meet in a busy public place in daylight, and bring someone with you if you can. Inspect the equipment and confirm it works before you pay. Cash or an in-person e-transfer is safest for local sales. Never send money by wire transfer, gift cards, or cryptocurrency, and be wary of anyone who rushes you or refuses to meet. Our safety tips go through the common scams in detail.

Check recalls and Health Canada status

Before you rely on a piece of equipment, look up its brand and model on the Health Canada recalls and safety alerts database, and check the manufacturer's site for any recall notices. This is quick to do and can flag a serious safety issue, especially with power chairs, lifts, and anything with batteries or motors.

Fit and professional advice

Equipment that does not fit can cause pressure sores, falls, or long-term strain. A wheelchair seat width, a cushion, or a walker height that suits one person may be wrong for another. If you are unsure, an occupational therapist or the original supplier can advise on the right size and setup, and many will help even with secondhand gear. When in doubt, ask before you buy.

Ready to look?

Browse what is available now, or if you have equipment of your own to pass on, post a listing for free. It only takes a few minutes and no account is needed.