John Deere warns about gray market machines

John Deere today re-emphasized that certain "gray market" machinery does not necessarily meet safety and customer requirements demanded in the U.S. market. In May, the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) moved to stop the importation of certain gray market machines.

Gray market machines are products designed for use in other countries but imported back to the U.S. without authorization of the manufacturer. Specifically for John Deere, third party representatives are selling Self-Propelled Forage Harvesters and Telehandlers originally designed for the European market to U.S. dealers, independent retailers, and end-users.

The ITC ruled that it is illegal for importers to sell these European-version machines to the U.S. market. Customs officials have been ordered to stop these machines at the border and not allow them to enter the U.S.

In addition, Deere said, because these products are not authorized for sale in the U.S., the machines do not qualify for warranty under U.S. guidelines. As well, these machines are designed with specific product features for the European market, making some parts and attachments unavailable in the U.S.

"John Deere and John Deere dealers have always valued customer safety and satisfaction," said Doug DeVries, Senior Vice President, Ag Marketing, Deere and Company. "Our customers rely on John Deere to manufacture equipment that provides great value, helping them to be more productive and profitable. Because gray market machines are not built to U.S. specifications, John Deere cannot endorse the importation of gray market machines to the U.S. We encourage customers to work with their local John Deere dealer for the right product to ensure the highest level of customer satisfaction, service and support."