“We Needed to Move Fast”: How a Vietnamese Brickworks Boosted Output with Used Loaders

When a housing boom hit Hai Phong in mid-2025, Minh Tâm Brick Factory found itself in a bind: demand was spiking, but the yard’s old loaders were slowing down operations. “We had clay waiting, orders pending, and only one loader still working,” recalls Mr. Hùng, the site supervisor.

No Time for OEM Lead Times

New machines from local dealers required a 5–8 week lead time. “By then, we’d miss the entire building season,” says Hùng. They considered rentals, but monthly rates were high — and the available units were overworked.

Going Used — and Owning the Outcome

After reviewing photos and test videos of used wheel loaders from Japan, they decided to buy. Within 11 days, two Komatsu WA320 loaders arrived — fully serviced, repainted, and ready for work. "No delay, no drama," Hùng says. "We unloaded and went to work the next day."

What Changed on the Ground?

• Yard clearance time dropped by 28% within two weeks.
• Daily output rose from 85,000 to 110,000 bricks/day.
• Operators reported less fatigue and smoother handling.

Local Workers, Local Wins

What surprised them most? “Our operators were skeptical at first,” Hùng admits, “but they now say these loaders are the best machines on site.” The factory now runs three shifts — and is in talks to export bricks to Laos.

“We were nervous. But in the end, we got two solid machines, quick delivery, and control over our schedule. It paid off.”
— Mr. Hùng, Site Supervisor

Why This Matters

In fast-moving markets, timing can be everything. With the right used heavy equipment, small and mid-sized businesses can move quicker than the big guys — and win.