Those who are not overinvested may save temporarily by delaying a planned purchase. Selling little-used equipment will bring in some cash while adding only minor management problems. Joint ownership of specialized equipment is another option. Also, there are many ways to hold down machinery operating costs. Proper engine tuning can reduce fuel use and routine maintenance can reduce repair costs.
Preventive maintenance is a particularly effective cost-saving technique.
In some cases leasing may be more economical than owning for those with cash-flow problems. Sometimes hiring custom operators to perform certain tasks might save money when compared to owning the equipment required to perform that task. Rates custom operators charge are often lower than the costs of using your own equipment. There are times when you may want to sell part of the farm assets and settle for a smaller operation that has a better chance of survival. This is not an alternative available to all financially distressed farmers because some equity must be left to achieve a partial liquidation.