| 1 | Drilling method and application fit | Confirm whether the rig is designed for the intended method, such as rotary drilling, down-the-hole hammer drilling, or a combination. Match it to the ground conditions and well purpose. | Model-specific technical data, method description, recommended applications, and references for comparable ground conditions. | A rig suitable for one formation or drilling method may not perform well in another. Application fit should be established before comparing price. |
| 2 | Documented operating specifications | Review the stated drilling depth, borehole diameter range, feed force, rotation speed, torque, and operating weight. Check how each figure is defined. | A current datasheet and operating manual for the quoted configuration, including stated test conditions and optional equipment. | Specifications can vary with tooling, formation, and configuration. A maximum figure alone is not a guarantee of performance at a particular site. |
| 3 | Power system and fuel requirements | Check engine or motor type, rated power, fuel requirements, emissions documentation where applicable, and compatibility with local service practices. | Engine or motor documentation, emissions certificates if required, fuel and maintenance guidance, and a list of compatible service parts. | Power-system suitability affects operating costs, regulatory compliance, service access, and the buyer’s ability to keep the rig running. |
| 4 | Mobility and site access | Assess the chassis type, transport dimensions, operating weight, ground clearance, setup requirements, and access constraints at the worksite. | Dimensioned drawings, shipping weight and dimensions, transport instructions, and setup procedures. | Transport limits, terrain, and site access can determine whether a rig can be delivered and operated safely at the intended location. |
| 5 | Safety features and compliance | Check guarding, emergency stops, operator controls, warning labels, stability provisions, and documentation required for the destination market. | Risk and safety documentation, applicable conformity documents, operator instructions, and photographs or inspection records for the quoted model. | Requirements differ by jurisdiction and application. Buyers should verify applicable rules with the relevant authorities or qualified advisers. |
| 6 | Build quality and quality control | Ask how fabrication, assembly, inspection, and testing are controlled. Clarify which components are standard and which are sourced or optional. | Quality-management documentation where available, inspection checklists, test records, component specifications, and a factory inspection option. | Consistent inspection and traceable component details help buyers assess manufacturing control without relying solely on sales claims. |
| 7 | After-sales service and spare parts | Confirm warranty terms, technical support channels, service coverage, parts availability, and the process for diagnosing and resolving faults. | Written warranty terms, parts catalogue, support response process, recommended spare-parts list, and details of any local service arrangements. | Downtime and parts lead times can affect the total cost of ownership, especially when the rig operates far from the manufacturer. |
| 8 | Operator training and documentation | Check whether operating, maintenance, and safety instructions are available in a language the crew can use and whether training is included or available. | Sample manuals, training syllabus, delivery handover checklist, and details of remote or on-site training options. | Clear instructions and proper handover support safe operation and routine maintenance by the buyer’s team. |
| 9 | Export, delivery, and installation readiness | Clarify the delivery basis, packing method, lead-time assumptions, export documents, installation scope, and responsibilities for transport and commissioning. | Written quotation with a defined Incoterms® rule and named place, packing list, estimated schedule, and a document checklist for the destination. | Clear allocation of shipping, insurance, customs, and commissioning responsibilities reduces avoidable delays and cost disputes. |
| 10 | Total cost and commercial transparency | Compare the complete delivered configuration, including tooling, pumps or compressors if needed, taxes and duties where applicable, consumables, and service costs. | Itemized quotation, list of inclusions and exclusions, payment terms, warranty scope, and written confirmation of any performance commitments. | The lowest equipment price may not represent the lowest ownership cost. Comparing equivalent configurations makes quotations more useful. |