A Look into the World of Used Pumps

Without pumps, there would be no dry construction sites, no controlled groundwater levels, and no properly functioning infrastructure. In a conversation with entrepreneur John van Tongeren, it becomes clear just how versatile and how dynamic the world of water pumps is, and why used pumps are becoming increasingly important.

John is the owner of Van Tongeren Trading, a company that specializes in the global trade of water pumps and related products. What began as a company with strong ties to the automotive sector grew within a few years into a business focused entirely on pumps. That focus didn’t come out of nowhere: John grew up in a family of well drillers and ground drillers and developed a deep understanding of the trade at a young age.

Reuse

A key element underlying his business is the long service life of pumps. While manufacturers focus primarily on selling new machines, John saw opportunities in reusing existing equipment. “Used pumps, provided they are properly overhauled and tested, can continue to function reliably for years to come,” he says. This approach thus aligns seamlessly with the growing demand for circular solutions within the construction sector.

Opinion

According to John, his company’s strength lies not only in sales, but above all in consulting. “A pump isn’t just a pump,” he emphasizes. “The right choice depends heavily on the application: well drainage, sewer work, irrigation, or industrial processes all require specific technical solutions. That’s why every project starts with a simple question: what’s the problem? Only then do we determine which pump is the best fit.” This customer-focused approach is reinforced by a brand-neutral approach. Van Tongeren Trading positions itself as ‘the Switzerland of the market’: not tied to a single manufacturer, but focused on the best possible solution. This makes it possible to provide objective advice and deliver customized solutions.

Manufacturer Specifications

Every pump that arrives at Van Tongeren Trading is thoroughly inspected, tested, and, where necessary, refurbished, John explains. “Performance is compared to the original factory specifications, taking normal wear and tear into account. This process ensures that customers worldwide can rely on properly functioning machines, whether they’re headed to Europe, Africa, or South America.” International trade is therefore a key part of the company’s operations. Thanks to a combination of technical expertise, inventory, and logistical capabilities, Van Tongeren can respond quickly. “In some cases, a pump is shipped within a few hours to resolve an urgent problem, such as in recent projects at amusement parks or mining sites.”

Speed

John has noticed a growing demand for used pumps in the market. “This is due, on the one hand, to the high investment costs of new machines, and on the other hand, to long delivery times. In many situations, speed is crucial: water management issues often arise unexpectedly and require an immediate solution. Used pumps offer an attractive alternative in such cases. Smart monitoring, telemetry, and more efficient energy use ensure that even older machines can meet modern requirements. At the same time, proper maintenance remains essential. In practice, many malfunctions turn out not to be technical in nature, but rather the result of improper use.”

Finally, the most important lesson John wants to share with us is: “Always start with the problem, not the solution. By carefully analyzing what’s needed, you can avoid misguided investments and ensure the efficient and sustainable use of equipment.” You can listen to the full interview with John van Tongeren by scanning the QR code.