Bargain Bites: Where to Buy Used Commercial Pizza Ovens
Why Used Commercial Pizza Ovens Are Smart Business
A used commercial pizza oven can save your startup thousands while delivering the same professional results as new equipment. Here's what you need to know:
Top Places to Buy Used Commercial Pizza Ovens:
- Restaurant equipment dealers - Certified used with warranties (90+ days typical)
- Online marketplaces - eBay, Facebook Marketplace (widest selection)
- Auction houses - Restaurant closures and liquidations (best deals)
- Classified ads - Kijiji, Craigslist (local pickup options)
Price Range: $1,000 - $20,000+ (30-70% less than new)
Top Brands: Bakers Pride, Blodgett, Lincoln, Middleby Marshall, Garland
Starting a pizzeria means every dollar counts. The research shows that used commercial pizza ovens offer significant cost savings - often 30-70% less than new equipment - while still delivering professional-grade performance. Whether you're looking at a Bakers Pride deck oven for artisan pizzas or a Lincoln conveyor oven for high-volume operations, the used market gives you access to premium brands that might otherwise be out of reach.
The used commercial pizza oven market is thriving, with many businesses choosing pre-owned equipment to manage startup costs or expand operations without major capital outlay. From certified refurbished models with 90-day warranties to auction finds from restaurant closures, there are options for every budget and risk tolerance.
I'm Sean Kearney, and my sales background - from baseball cards to Amazon - has taught me that smart buyers know when to invest in quality used equipment. Having helped countless restaurant owners find the perfect used commercial pizza oven for their operations, I've seen how the right equipment can make or break a new pizzeria's success.
Know your used commercial pizza oven terms:
The Smart Pizzeria's Checklist: What to Look for in a Used Commercial Pizza Oven
Shopping for a used commercial pizza oven is like dating - you want to look beyond the pretty exterior and make sure there's substance underneath. We're not just hunting for the cheapest price tag; we're looking for a reliable partner that'll help us serve perfect pizzas for years to come.
Think of this as your protection plan. When you're dealing with private sellers or "as-is" sales, doing your homework becomes absolutely critical. The goal? Finding a used commercial pizza oven that's been loved, not abused.
This checklist will walk you through every key consideration, so you can shop with confidence. And once you've got your oven sorted, don't forget about the prep work - check out our guide on Used But Not Abused: Finding Quality Pizza Prep Tables on a Budget.
Key Features to Look For in a Used Commercial Pizza Oven
Before we even talk dollars, let's talk needs. A cozy neighborhood joint in Boston has completely different requirements than a high-volume delivery operation in Los Angeles.
Size and footprint matter more than you might think. Commercial kitchens are notorious for tight spaces. That gorgeous double-deck Garland or Lincoln triple conveyor might pump out pizzas like nobody's business, but it won't help if it can't fit through your door. We've seen everything from compact countertop models at $750 CAD to massive 118" x 54" units that need their own zip code.
Capacity planning is where the math gets real. How many pizzas will you need during your Friday night rush? A single-deck oven handles a few dozen per hour, while a large conveyor oven can churn out hundreds. That Blodgett 1048 double-deck we mentioned earlier? It's built for volume, with some models baking four 15.75" pizzas simultaneously.
Fuel type is a game-changer for both your wallet and your workflow. Natural gas ovens like the Middleby Marshall 74" model heat up fast and keep operating costs low - but you'll need proper gas lines and ventilation. Electric ovens are plug-and-play friendly, though you'll want to check those power requirements carefully. Some need 220V three-phase power, not your standard kitchen outlet. Wood-fired ovens like the Bakers Pride wood-burning models create amazing flavor but require serious ventilation and skilled operators.
Speaking of power requirements, don't get caught off guard. Many commercial electric ovens need 208V, 220V, or three-phase power. That Omcan 40643 electric countertop model? It demands 220V three-phase and 18kW. Always confirm your kitchen can handle the electrical load before you buy.
Ventilation needs can't be ignored. Gas ovens especially need commercial hood systems. Some newer electric models boast ventless designs with catalytic converters, which can be a lifesaver in tight spaces. But always check your local codes first.
For more details on outfitting your pizza operation, our guide on Must-Have Commercial Pizza Oven Supplies for Perfect Pies covers all the extras you'll need.
Condition, Maintenance, and Top Brands
This is where buying used gets interesting. We want value, not a money pit that'll haunt our dreams.
Physical inspection is non-negotiable. Look for excessive wear, dents, rust, or warped parts. Check inside for carbon buildup - it tells the story of how well the oven was maintained. For deck ovens, examine those stones for cracks. For conveyor models, inspect the belt for damage or sagging.
Testing the operation is crucial if possible. Fire it up and check if the thermostat reads accurately with an external thermometer. Make sure all burners or heating elements work properly. Listen for weird noises. Test those door gaskets - a leaky seal wastes energy and ruins your cooking consistency.
Service records are gold when you can get them. Professional dealers sometimes provide maintenance history, giving you insight into major repairs and care patterns.
The refurbished versus as-is decision shapes everything. Certified used equipment from professional dealers comes cleaned, serviced, and tested by technicians. You'll often get a 90-day warranty too - like buying from a certified car dealer. As-is sales on marketplaces offer the deepest discounts (we've seen ovens as low as $200), but you're flying solo. When listings mention "needs some work" or "bottom door requires minor servicing," proceed with caution. eBay's condition definitions can help you understand what you're getting into.
Brand reputation matters in the resale market. Bakers Pride builds bombproof deck ovens. Blodgett dominates the deck and convection space. Lincoln leads conveyor technology. Middleby Marshall rules high-volume operations. Garland offers reliable across-the-board performance. These names hold their value because they deliver results.
Essential Questions to Ask the Seller
Don't be shy about asking questions. The more you know, the better your decision.
Previous usage history tells you everything. Was this oven grinding away in a busy chain or gently used in a small café? How many hours daily? Heavy-use equipment ages differently than occasional-use gear.
The reason for selling reveals a lot about the seller's honesty. Someone upgrading their kitchen, closing their business, or inheriting restaurant equipment after an acquisition usually has straightforward motives. Vague answers should raise red flags.
Included accessories can add serious value. Oven stones, baking pans, paddles, timer switches - these extras add up quickly when bought separately.
Warranty coverage varies wildly. Certified used often includes 90-day protection. Private sales typically offer nothing, but asking never hurts.
Return policies protect your investment. Professional dealers usually have exchange options. Private sellers rarely accept returns, as many listings explicitly state.
These questions help you build a complete picture of what you're buying. For deeper insights into commercial oven selection, read our article Commercial Pizza Ovens That'll Make Your Dough Rise (Literally).
Know Your Ovens: Deck vs. Conveyor
When you're shopping for a used commercial pizza oven, understanding the difference between deck and conveyor ovens can make or break your pizzeria's success. It's not just about finding a good deal – it's about choosing the right tool for your pizza vision and business model.
Think of it this way: a deck oven is like a skilled craftsman's workshop, while a conveyor oven is like a well-oiled factory line. Both make excellent pizza, but they serve very different purposes. Your choice will shape everything from your bake style and output volume to the skill level you'll need from your staff.
For a comprehensive look at different oven types and their capabilities, check out our guide Brick by Brick, Slice by Slice: Commercial Pizza Ovens Reviewed.
The Artisan's Choice: Deck Ovens
Deck ovens are the traditionalists of the pizza world. They feature thick stone or ceramic surfaces where pizzas sit directly on the hot deck, creating that authentic pizzeria experience your customers crave.
The crispy crust you get from a deck oven is best. That direct contact with the blazing hot stone creates a beautiful bottom crust that's crispy outside and chewy inside. The thick stone deck also provides incredible high heat retention, so even when you're slinging pies during the dinner rush, each pizza gets the same intense heat.
Radiant heat is the secret weapon here. Heat radiates from both the hot deck below and the oven chamber above, creating an even bake with those coveted charred spots that add authentic flavor. This is why deck ovens are the best choice for Neapolitan and NY-style pizzas – they deliver that artisan quality that sets your pizzeria apart.
But here's the reality check: deck ovens require a skilled operator. Your pizzaiolo needs to know when to rotate pizzas, how to read temperature changes, and how to manage multiple pies at different stages. This means higher labor costs and the challenge of finding experienced staff.
Deck ovens also have slower bake times compared to conveyor models. While that Bakers Pride 73″ Electric Single Pizza Oven might be perfect for a boutique spot in San Francisco, it could struggle during peak hours at a busy Chicago joint.
Popular used commercial pizza oven brands in the deck category include Bakers Pride (like the 73″ Electric Single Pizza Oven) and Blodgett (such as the 1048 Refurbished Double Deck Pizza Oven).
The High-Volume Hero: Conveyor Ovens
If deck ovens are artisan workshops, conveyor ovens are precision machines built for speed and volume. Pizzas ride a moving belt through a heated chamber, emerging perfectly cooked with minimal human intervention.
Consistency is their superpower. Once you dial in the temperature and belt speed, every single pizza comes out identical – whether it's made by your most experienced cook or the new hire on their first day. This consistency is gold for chains or any business with multiple locations across Dallas or Phoenix.
The speed factor is incredible. Conveyor ovens can pump out pizzas continuously, making them perfect for busy lunch rushes or delivery-focused operations. Models like the Lincoln Impinger 1116 Conveyor Triple Pizza Oven are built to handle serious volume without breaking a sweat.
Ease of use translates directly to lower labor costs. Your staff simply loads pizzas at one end and pulls them out at the other. No rotating, no temperature guessing, no years of training required. This can save thousands in labor costs compared to deck oven operations.
Many conveyor ovens use impingement cooking technology, where hot air shoots through specialized nozzles directly onto the pizza. This speeds up cooking time and creates surprisingly crispy results – perfect for the fast-casual market.
These ovens are ideal for chains and delivery operations where speed and consistency matter more than artisan flair. If you're planning a ghost kitchen or high-volume delivery service, a conveyor oven is probably your best bet.
Top used commercial pizza oven brands in the conveyor world include Lincoln (like the Lincoln Triple Conveyor Pizza Oven Model: 1600) and Middleby Marshall (such as the PS670G Gas Conveyor Pizza Oven). XLT conveyor ovens also show up frequently in the used market, known for their reliability and efficiency.
Where to Find Your Perfect Used Commercial Pizza Oven
Finding the right used commercial pizza oven is like treasure hunting - you need to know where to look and what to watch out for. The good news? There are more options today than ever before, from professional dealers who'll hold your hand through the process to online marketplaces where you might snag an incredible deal.
The key is matching your comfort level with risk to the right buying channel. Want maximum peace of mind? Go with a certified dealer. Feeling adventurous and want the best prices? Dive into the auction world. Let's explore your options.
Top places to search for your perfect used pizza oven:
- Online restaurant equipment retailers (safest, warranties included)
- Online marketplaces like eBay and Facebook (widest selection)
- Auction houses and liquidation sales (best potential deals)
- Local classified ads (inspect before you buy)
Online Restaurant Equipment Retailers
These folks are the gold standard when you're buying your first used commercial pizza oven. Think of them as the certified pre-owned car dealers of the restaurant world - you'll pay a bit more, but you're getting professional backing.
Certified used equipment from these retailers has been through the wringer in the best way possible. They've cleaned it, tested it, and often replaced worn parts. When you see "refurbished" or "certified used" on the listing, that's your signal that professionals have given it their stamp of approval.
The warranty protection alone makes these dealers worth considering. Most offer a 90-day parts-and-labor warranty, which means if your oven decides to take a vacation during your grand opening week, you're covered. That peace of mind is priceless when you're just starting out.
Professional support extends beyond just the sale. These companies often help with financing, shipping logistics, and even installation guidance. They understand that a pizza oven isn't just equipment - it's the heart of your business.
You can often find listings for specific models like a Used Montague 24P Double Deck Pizza Oven or a USED Lincoln Impinger 1116 Conveyor Triple Pizza Oven on these sites. These retailers build their reputation on quality used equipment.
Online Marketplaces and Classifieds
Welcome to the wild west of used commercial pizza oven shopping. These platforms offer incredible variety and potentially amazing deals, but you need to bring your detective skills.
eBay is like the world's largest restaurant equipment garage sale. You'll find everything from a small countertop unit to massive conveyor systems. Prices vary wildly - we've seen everything from a few hundred dollars to $15,999 for a Valoriani Commercial Pizza Oven. The wide selection means you can find almost any brand or model, often with detailed photos and descriptions.
The pros include competitive pricing and eBay's buyer protection programs for many listings. The cons? Most items are sold "as-is" with no warranty, and you'll need to carefully check seller feedback and ask detailed questions. Shipping costs for heavy equipment can be substantial.
Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and local classifieds are perfect for finding deals in your area. You can actually see and touch the oven before buying, which is huge. Check out pizza ovens on Craigslist in New York to see what's available locally.
The beauty of local marketplaces is direct communication with sellers and no shipping headaches. You might find incredible deals from restaurant owners who are upgrading or closing. However, these sales are almost always final with no recourse if problems arise later. Always meet in safe, public locations and never pay without inspecting the equipment first.
Auction Houses and Liquidation Sales
If you enjoy a bit of adrenaline with your equipment shopping, auctions might be your perfect match. This is where restaurant closures turn into your opportunity - their loss can literally become your gain.
Online auctions have made this market accessible to everyone. You can bid from your couch on a Garland Double-Deck Bakery/Pizza Oven or check out specialized auction sites like Absolute Auctions & Realty for restaurant equipment liquidations.
The potential for deep discounts is real. We've seen high-quality ovens sell for 50-80% below retail value. But auctions move at their own pace, and you need to be prepared for quick decisions.
Fast-paced environment means doing your homework beforehand. Understand the buyer's premium (usually 15-18% added to your winning bid), know the pickup requirements (often 24-48 hours), and remember that everything is typically sold "as-is, where-is."
The thrill of winning a fantastic used commercial pizza oven at auction price makes all the preparation worthwhile. Just make sure you've set a firm budget and stick to it - auction fever is real, and it can blow your equipment budget faster than you can say "going once, going twice."
Frequently Asked Questions about Used Ovens
Let's be honest – buying a used commercial pizza oven can feel overwhelming. It's a big investment, even when you're getting a great deal on pre-owned equipment. I've helped countless pizzeria owners steer these waters, and the same questions keep coming up. Let's tackle the most common concerns so you can move forward with confidence.
These are smart questions to ask! After all, this oven will be the heart of your operation. For broader insights on managing your restaurant's financial needs, check out our guide on Restaurant Equipment Financing for Startups.
What is the typical price range for a used commercial pizza oven?
This is always the first question, and I get it – you need to know what you're working with budget-wise. The truth is, used commercial pizza oven prices vary as much as used car prices. I've seen everything from a beat-up countertop model for $200 to a pristine Lincoln conveyor system for over $20,000.
Here's what drives the price differences:
Brand reputation matters tremendously. Names like Lincoln, Middleby Marshall, Bakers Pride, Blodgett, and XLT hold their value because they're built to last. You'll pay more, but you're getting proven reliability.
Oven type plays a huge role too. Conveyor ovens typically cost more than deck ovens, especially the high-capacity models that can pump out hundreds of pizzas per hour. Specialty wood-fired ovens can also command premium prices due to their unique construction.
Condition is everything. An "as-is" oven from a closing restaurant might cost $1,000, while the same model professionally refurbished could run $8,000. That refurbished unit comes with peace of mind, though – it's been thoroughly inspected and tested.
Age and features round out the equation. Newer models with digital controls or ventless operation will cost more than older analog units.
General Range: Most pizzeria owners end up spending $1,000 to $20,000+ for a quality used commercial pizza oven. The beautiful part? You're typically saving 30-70% compared to buying new. That's thousands of dollars you can put toward other startup costs or marketing your grand opening.
Can I get financing for a used commercial pizza oven?
Absolutely, and don't let anyone tell you otherwise! This is one of the biggest myths in the restaurant equipment world. Financing options for used commercial pizza ovens are everywhere if you know where to look.
Traditional equipment loans work just like they do for new equipment. You'll typically need a down payment and then make fixed monthly payments. Many banks and specialized lenders understand that used equipment can be just as valuable for your business as new.
Leasing programs offer another smart path. Instead of a large upfront purchase, you make regular payments over time. At the end, you might have options to buy, upgrade, or return the equipment. It's particularly appealing if you want to preserve cash flow.
Rent-Try-Buy options are game-changers for new businesses. These programs let you make manageable weekly rental payments while you test the equipment. Often, 60% or more of your rental payments can be credited toward purchase if you decide to buy. Plus, rental payments are usually 100% tax deductible – that's money back in your pocket come tax time.
At Pizza Prep Table, we understand that every dollar counts when you're starting or growing a pizzeria. That's why we offer flexible financing solutions designed around your needs, not ours. For detailed information about your options, visit our guide: Pizza Oven Financing Made Easy: Get Cooking Without Cash Stress.
What kind of warranty can I expect with a pre-owned oven?
The warranty situation depends entirely on who you're buying from, and this is absolutely critical to clarify before you hand over any money.
Certified used equipment from reputable dealers often comes with solid protection. The industry standard is typically a 90-day parts-and-labor warranty. This means if something breaks within 90 days, they'll fix it at no cost to you. These dealers have inspected, cleaned, and tested the equipment – they're confident it'll work properly.
Private sales are a different story entirely. Whether you're buying from someone on Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or a local classified ad, expect zero warranty protection. These are almost always "as-is" sales, meaning once you drive away, any problems become your problems. I've seen listings that explicitly state "seller does not accept returns" – they mean it.
Auction purchases fall into the same category as private sales. Everything is typically sold "as-is, where-is" with no recourse if issues arise. The excitement of potentially getting a great deal at auction needs to be balanced against this reality.
My advice? Always ask about warranty terms upfront, and factor the answer into your decision. If there's no warranty, budget for potential repairs and make sure your inspection is extra thorough. A used commercial pizza oven without warranty coverage isn't necessarily a bad deal – just make sure the price reflects that additional risk.
Conclusion: Fire Up Your Pizzeria Without Burning Your Budget
Finding the perfect used commercial pizza oven doesn't have to feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Whether you're opening your first pizzeria in Philadelphia or expanding your successful operation in San Diego, we've shown you exactly how to steer this market like a pro.
The numbers don't lie – used commercial pizza ovens can save you 30-70% compared to buying new, while delivering the same mouth-watering results. That's real money you can put toward marketing, ingredients, or hiring great staff. Plus, you'll gain access to premium brands like Bakers Pride and Lincoln that might otherwise blow your budget.
We've walked through everything together: matching your oven's size and fuel type to your kitchen's needs, spotting the difference between a well-maintained gem and a potential headache, and understanding whether a deck oven's artisan appeal or a conveyor oven's high-volume efficiency fits your vision better.
The marketplace is yours to explore. Certified used equipment from reputable dealers offers peace of mind with warranties. Online marketplaces like eBay and Craigslist provide incredible selection and bargain prices. Auction houses can deliver those "pinch me, is this real?" deals when restaurants close their doors.
Don't forget that financing options exist for used commercial pizza ovens too. From traditional equipment loans to innovative rent-try-buy programs, there's a payment plan that won't stress your cash flow.
Here's our golden rule: inspect before you buy. Ask every question that pops into your head. If possible, see that oven fire up and bake a pizza. Trust your instincts – if something feels off, keep looking. The right used commercial pizza oven is out there waiting for you.
At Pizza Prep Table, we're cheering you on every step of the way. Your oven is just the beginning of your pizza empire. Now that you're ready to start baking those perfect pies, complete your setup with our extensive collection of commercial pizza prep tables. We're here to help you build a kitchen that works as hard as you do, from New York City to Los Angeles and every hungry town in between.