Need help! Vitamix on Craigslist - should I get this one?

[OnMyJourney]

Ok, I found this ad on my local craigslist and have sent an email regarding purchasing it, but thought I'd better come to the experts for feedback first. I searched here and didn't find anything (perhaps I didn't use the correct terms?) and I found limited info with a google search.

Here is the ad:



Just in time to give (or keep!) for Christmas--
VitaMix Super Total Nutrition Center. Used only once (turns out I don't like to cook), so you get a great deal! You're getting a new machine for only $300, while they sell for $550 or more retail. Variable speed dial plus High speed. White body. Comes with all the original items included: wet container and dry container (each is 64 oz) and two-part lid, Owner's Manual, Quickstart instructional DVD, Getting Started guide, Whole Grains Cookbook, Whole Food Recipes cookbook. Also an extra wet container I bought used.


My confusion is with the title of the machine - Super Total Nutrition Center...is this the same as the 5200? I see the Total Nutrition Center referenced as the "old 5000" in my Google searches. I want a Vitamix so badly and this seems like an awesome deal. Only I didn't want to buy an older machine by accident because I wasn't familiar with the difference in packaging or maybe an older machine isn't so bad...I just want to know what I'm getting - that is likely the best way to word this. Can someone advise me please??? I'd be forever grateful!

My heart is racing at the possibility of owning this machine and pouring such awesome goodness into my daughter's body...not to mention my own!!

[OnMyJourney]

Funny what you can find on Google when you manipulate your spelling. :o Ok, it appears that the Super TNC is the European version?? Am I understanding this correctly?

I'm beginning to think I should just order directly from VitaMix. That way I know what I'm getting and am sure of my warranty. I can't seem to make heads or tails of this Super Total Nutrition Center version.

[spicyfull]

Although it sounds like a Good Deal to me.........just call Vita-Mix and they will tell you where its from. It could be called "Super Total Nuet. Center" because it comes with EVERYTHING. The Dry Container cost app. $100-. It seems to have 3 Container total, 2 wet and 1 dry. I would get it. Others have found Great deals on ebay etc......Can you call them directly and talk to the Seller?

[OnMyJourney]

Spicyfull,
I was thinking the very same thing about the 3 containers, which got me really interested. There was no phone number for a direct conversation with the seller, however, he/she graciously responded with a full update that I found just now (upon checking my email).

Please tell me what you think.


The model I have is a VitaMix 5000 Super Total Nutrition Center. I purchased it in late 2006 when I visited the Optimum Health Institute in San Diego. I used it only once then decided that the raw food diet was not for me, and since I'm not much of a cook I never got around to needing it for anything else. It has been stored in its original box, but unfortunately I just got rid of the box a month ago to save closet space. It has been stored in the kitchen cabinet since then, so still in great shape. I just now fired it up to make sure it's working, and it definitely is. (Note to self: Make sure the lid is on before turning a blender on "High")

I have contacted the Customer Service Dept at VitaMix to see if it is still under warranty (I still have the receipt), but I notice that the website currently lists a 3-year warranty for that model, so I suspect that the warranty has expired. That being said, the comments you see online at various websites always talk about how dependable these machines are, lasting up to twenty years!

Hope this answers all questions. Thanks for your interest.


These machines are built incredible tough and I do know that they last for years and years on end, however, something about no warranty makes me so nervous. I'm thinking perhaps I should just go ahead and order from the company so I get a warranty...just in case. Anyone have thoughts that they would be willing to share with me on this? Please?

[lovenlife]

I always speak with the people on the phone. And to figure a way to exchange the money/item (if u cant pick it up in person).

I sold a cell phone once and trusted the person...GONE w no money.
Not that this would happen to you BUT craigslsit doesnt LIST all that warning about fraud for nothing.

I speak with them. Plus figure a good money/product exchange.

As far as the vita...sounds good. They run n run.

[OnMyJourney]

I always speak with the people on the phone. And to figure a way to exchange the money/item (if u cant pick it up in person).

I sold a cell phone once and trusted the person...GONE w no money.
Not that this would happen to you BUT craigslsit doesnt LIST all that warning about fraud for nothing.

I speak with them. Plus figure a good money/product exchange.

As far as the vita...sounds good. They run n run.


Thankfully, it's a local sell (with pick up) or I wouldn't dare risk it with craigslist! I've read of too many shady deals on there. I'll be picking this up form the seller's house, as they are right here in town so it'll be a face to face pick up.

So you think I should get it? I was worried about the difference between the 5000 and the 5200 and was considering ordering the 5200 refurbed to get the "newest" technology and the 7 year warranty. But those 3 containers have me salivating. LOL I just want to be sure, I was so stoked last night...now I'm nervous. But I trust the advice of you all because you know your stuff when it comes to the tools of the raw food kitchen!

[lovenlife]

Great you can pickup in person.

Dont trust US trust YOU.

Overall Vita is awesome, no matter what year...I would say.

Go with it if it feels right to YOU!

[OnMyJourney]

I'm getting excited!!! Oh how I NEED this machine in our life (my daughter and I)!!! I have been amping up her percentages of raw foods over the last few months and she made an observation just the other day. She said, "Mommy, by this time I'd usually be sick and I've been fine." I leaped into the air with joy and pointed out to her that it was the fabulous change in her diet. My heart filled with such joy! Oh and a few nights ago she REQUESTED that I prepare raw pasta for dinner! Oooh, you just don't know how insanely happy this made me!!


But I digress, I came back to share that I spoke with a lovely ladey at Vitamix that says this machine may very well indeed be under warranty still. So I just emailed the seller back and requested the serial number, explaining why and I think I might just have me a new Vitamix within the next few hours...or shortly after she replies to my email! :D I know these machines are durable...but it's just something about spending $300 without a warranty that makes me a bit uneasy. I'm praying that this all works out well. That it will be under warranty and this is MY time, OUR time to embark fully upon the healthy, vibrant lives we were born to have. I'm so excited!!!

I'll keep you all posted. Thank you all for the support, the encouragement and the advice! You all are the greatest! So send prayers, positive vibes and energy my way that this baby will be ALL MINE...OURS! :D

[lovenlife]

wooohoooo I am excited for you. I will have one of those babies at some point too. Happy day!

[OnMyJourney]

Thank you so much lovenlife! I'm watching my email like a hawk, just waiting for a reply! I can barely breath! :p:p I'm so out of my mind excited! But my daughter said to me, 10 years old with her infinite wisdom - man I love this kid, "I'd get the used one, but if you're that uneasy about the warranty go ahead and buy the new one. It'll make you feel better, that's what's important." I love my kiddo!

*goes back to praying* :D

[Conscious Midwife]

Sounds like a potentially awesome exchange.

However if for some reason you change your mind and decide to go directly through Vitamix (website/ phone order). Here's a coupon code you can use for free shipping
06-002140

Consider getting the RAW FOODIST Package
Includes all the upate books dvds that come standard plus:
Vita-Mix 5200 Raw Foodist Package

More elegant, updated package: Soft touch switches, designer label, beautiful shell, all new DVD and cookbooks!
SKU: 00
VALUE: $565.00
PRICE: $449.00


http://www.vitamix.com/household/Health/images/bullet_purple.jpgNut Milk Bag
100% hemp and highly durable, this nut milk bag does double-duty for raw food enthusiasts. The 12” x 12” bag is perfect for straining nut milk silky smooth and also for sprouting. It comes complete with easy-to-follow directions and special recipes for the mash. $14.95 Value
http://www.vitamix.com/household/Health/images/bullet_purple.jpgVitamix Market Bag
Insulated and foil-lined with a zip-top, this attractive tote is perfect for fresh and frozen food purchases. Made of recyclable non-woven polypropylene, it is tear-resistant, water-repellant and sports 17” straps for easy shopping. Handy front pocket is perfect for your shopping list and coupons. $19.95 Value
Also consider getting the RAw Foodist

;):)

[Green_Woman]

When it comes to Craigslist, my personal procedure is simple. I meet the person IN-PERSON, view the goods, and exchange cash with receipts if I decide to purchase. :)


I bought my Vitamix used ($200 for machine + both containers) over a year ago and it still runs like a dream. Knowing the high quality of these Blenders, I have NO doubts I will be using this same machine in 5 years, too. :D I LOVE Vitamix!!!

[OnMyJourney]

Yayyyy!! She got back to me, she seems like such a sweet person! I have the serial number and I called VitaMix back but got the lady's voicemail. I left a message and plan to call her back within 30 minutes. The seller told me that several other folks have expressed interest, naturally.

However, I've decided...if I don't get this, it's not a completely bad thing (although I TOTALLY want it!). But I was thinking, I could get this (and all the goodies) for $300 OR I get a new one on with the 3 payment plan and buy the dry container when I need it later on and then I could also go ahead and get my Excalibur dehydrator. And my kitchen would be complete. :p Either way, I'm about to completely SPAZZZ OUT! :D:p

[OnMyJourney]

Thank you lifeAgift and Green_Woman!! I didn't refresh my page before writing that last post so I didn't see your responses.

lifeAgift, thank you SOO much for that code! Free shipping is AWESOME! And that package looks awesome as well.

Green_Woman, May I ask which version of the VitaMix you purchased? You got a SUPER SWEET deal!! I will definitely be getting the receipts and all. Yolanda shared with me (lady at vitamix) that the warranty could be transferred to me (if it was in fact still active).

[lovenlife]

Thank you so much lovenlife! I'm watching my email like a hawk, just waiting for a reply! I can barely breath! :p:p I'm so out of my mind excited! But my daughter said to me, 10 years old with her infinite wisdom - man I love this kid, "I'd get the used one, but if you're that uneasy about the warranty go ahead and buy the new one. It'll make you feel better, that's what's important." I love my kiddo!

*goes back to praying* :D

YOU HAVE ONE AMAZING DAUGHTER!!!! Smart thinkin! I got an old champion juicer for ten dollars and it runs like it was new. These machines (vita)are built to last forever..or almost!

I have seen the coupon code before. Do people who do this also get a commision??? Like an affiliate program? I think I could have some of that....I shout Vitamix from the rooftops! And I dont even own one!

[Green_Woman]

Mine is the Vitamix Super 5000, I believe. It's an oldie goldie and man does it ever work like a dream. :D

I'll be starting a new Vitamix fund next year (at which time I'll probably sign on for the distributorship deal so I can pass free shipping on to friends, too) so that I can pass this one on to my Sweetie (he's using a crappy blender right now that really doesn't get the job done and likes my Vitamix better, of course) but I'll miss this one -- it has a special place in my heart and is ABSOLUTELY the #1 used appliance in BOTH our houses!

[Dimond]

I get a new one on with the 3 payment plan and buy the dry container when I need it later. You don't need the dry container so that saves you money right there.

You can get refurbished:

Vita-Mix 5200 Factory Reconditioned & Certified w/new container, 7 year warranty, DVDs, Recipe Book $349 Free Shipping code 06-003694.

You can buy it through the website or call.

[OnMyJourney]

YOU HAVE ONE AMAZING DAUGHTER!!!! Smart thinkin! I got an old champion juicer for ten dollars and it runs like it was new. These machines (vita)are built to last forever..or almost!

I have seen the coupon code before. Do people who do this also get a commision??? Like an affiliate program? I think I could have some of that....I shout Vitamix from the rooftops! And I dont even own one!

Yea, I think she's great...but I'm a little biased. ;) I often think I did something really right in a past life to deserve her!



Mine is the Vitamix Super 5000, I believe. It's an oldie goldie and man does it ever work like a dream. :D

I'll be starting a new Vitamix fund next year (at which time I'll probably sign on for the distributorship deal so I can pass free shipping on to friends, too) so that I can pass this one on to my Sweetie (he's using a crappy blender right now that really doesn't get the job done and likes my Vitamix better, of course) but I'll miss this one -- it has a special place in my heart and is ABSOLUTELY the #1 used appliance in BOTH our houses!

Oooh, this sounds like the same one I can potentially have right now.


You don't need the dry container so that saves you money right there.

You can get refurbished:

Vita-Mix 5200 Factory Reconditioned & Certified w/new container, 7 year warranty, DVDs, Recipe Book $349 Free Shipping code 06-003694.

You can buy it through the website or call.

:eek: Now, THIS makes me pause! I will concede that I'm pretty sure I won't need the dry container and though incidental, I do really want a black one. AND with a daughter with a birthday the week after Christmas, it might be nice to have a little more money in my pocket. Hmmm... So I can for sure get a refurbed for 349? Can I do the 3 payment plan with this?

[OnMyJourney]

You don't need the dry container so that saves you money right there.

You can get refurbished:

Vita-Mix 5200 Factory Reconditioned & Certified w/new container, 7 year warranty, DVDs, Recipe Book $349 Free Shipping code 06-003694.

You can buy it through the website or call.



I just called Vitamix and JP (who's not as friendly as the two ladies I've spoken to today, I might add) tells me that I can get the 5000 for $349 refurbed, and the 5200 for $399 refurbed. He states that they typically don't allow the payment plan on refurbed units, only on new machines...but that they would allow it if it was "the only way to get you into a machine." :rolleyes:

I heard back from my very nice local craigslist lady and she would like to hear back from me by 10pm or shortly after 7:30 am tomorrow letting her know. Not to rush me, just to let her know so she can make some decisions of her own...which I totally respect.

So here's the breakdown:

Choice A) $300 for the 5000, 2 wet jars, 1 dry jar, the dvd and recipe books and 4 years left on the warranty.

OR

Choice B) $222.46 down and $111.23 for two months for a brand new ('refurbed') machine from Vita Mix with 1 wet jar, all the "upgrades" in black, with the dvd and recipe books, and 7 year warranty.

[OnMyJourney]

:eek: I DID IT!! I DID IT!!! :eek: I bit the bullet! I just called my local seller and agreed to purchase!!! I'm going to her house at 9:30 am to pick up my new baby!!!! :D

I am so pumped right now!! Can you believe it?? I actually own a Vita Mix...well almost, I will in the morning! :p

And she is just the sweetest lady ever, we chatted for some time on the phone and I really like her. I can't imagine buying from a nicer person. She was so happy to hear about the changes to my health and that of my young daughter and was pleased to help us on our journey! This is just fabulous. Before I was a bit nervous about plunking down this kind of cash, but it feels right in my spirit. I thought on it, I prayed on it and it just feels right. When I hung up I didn't have an instant feeling of "Oh my God what did you just do?!", instead I was insanely happy...still am. I can't wipe this smile off my face and I was running around my house (LITERALLY) just the way my miniature dachshund does!! LOL

As SOON as I get back from her house in the morning I will update you all! Thank you ALL for talking me through this and helping me to be rationale and make a decision that was best for me and my family. I know I've been talking in circles in here, but I sincerely and whole heartedly thank you for your patience and support! *big hugs*


OH MY GOD, I'M GOING TO OWN A VITAMIX!!!!!!! *faints*

[Conscious Midwife]

Choice B) $222.46 down and $111.23 for two months for a brand new ('refurbed') machine from Vita Mix with 1 wet jar, all the "upgrades" in black, with the dvd and recipe books, and 7 year warranty.

They also have the brand new in a sleek red. Came out after I purchased my black vitamix, GAIA. Yes I named her. So whatever you do pick out a name for your vitamixer, it's so cool.

[OnMyJourney]

They also have the brand new in a sleek red. Came out after I purchased my black vitamix, GAIA. Yes I named her. So whatever you do pick out a name for your vitamixer, it's so cool.


So funny that you mention this, I name EVERYTHING! LOL All of my friends laugh at me, but I've already name my new baby. She will be Veeta....cheezy I know, but it just hit me earlier tonight. She is Veeta the VitaMixer. :p:p My Kitchen Aid mixer, that I am now going to sell, is named Miss Moxie. ...Let me stop sharing now before you all know just how silly I really am! :o:D

[lovenlife]

My Omega is named Oma and my daughter has the twin to it and hers is named Meg.

OmaMeg....get it? not so silly is it now. See alot of us do that! ????

[lovenlife]

I just saw your post and you are getting a Vitamix...yipeeeeeeee!!

woweeeeeeeee


the Vita Veeta Veggimen....like I love lucy sold...hahahah

[lovenlife]

I just saw your post and you are getting a Vitamix...yipeeeeeeee!!

woweeeeeeeee


the Vita Veeta Veggimen....like (that stuff) I love lucy sold...hahahah

Cant wait to hear how it goes tommorow. Glad it felt right. I knew you would know if it was or not!

[Dimond]

Enjoy your Vitamix. :)

[OnMyJourney]

My Omega is named Oma and my daughter has the twin to it and hers is named Meg.

OmaMeg....get it? not so silly is it now. See alot of us do that! ????


Hahahaha I love it!!!


I just saw your post and you are getting a Vitamix...yipeeeeeeee!!

woweeeeeeeee

the Vita Veeta Veggimen....like I love lucy sold...hahahah YESS!!!

EXACTLY!!! lol I'm so excited! I'm not going to be able to get a wink of sleep!




Enjoy your Vitamix. :)

Thank you Dimond!!!

[Conscious Midwife]

Congrats!!!

Both Gaia (my vitamixer) and Zeus (my dehydrator ) approve:D

[OnMyJourney]

Congrats!!!

Both Gaia (my vitamixer) and Zeus (my dehydrator ) approve:D


Thank you lifeAgift! I'm going to have to start thinking of a name for my not yet acquired dehydrator! I love your names!! :D You all are as crazy....er umm, I mean creative as I am! :D:p

[spicyfull]

This turned out to be Quite the Soap Opra...........I THINK YOU MADE THE RIGHT CHOICE.........CONGRATULATIONS, YOU GUYS WILL BE FRIENDS FOR A LONG TIME.....IN JOY.

[OnMyJourney]

This turned out to be Quite the Soap Opra...........I THINK YOU MADE THE RIGHT CHOICE.........CONGRATULATIONS, YOU GUYS WILL BE FRIENDS FOR A LONG TIME.....IN JOY.

LOL Yes it did! But now VEETA IS HOME!!! Yayy! I love her, she's so beautiful! I love her just as much as the black one I wanted! I went by Trader Joe's and loaded up on organic frozen vegetables and then went by Whole Foods for organic, local kale and now I'm all set!!

Yayyyyyy! I'm sooooooooo happy! Can you believe it?!?! We have a Vita Mix!!! :eek: *faints*


ETA: I'll be back with pictures!!!

[OnMyJourney]

Veeta!!! :D:D (Ignore the stuff on my counter :o:p )


ETA: She is still under warranty through 2013! Yippee!!

[Conscious Midwife]

Congrats she so beautiful.

I think she has her fathers blades.;)

[OnMyJourney]

Congrats she so beautiful.

I think she has her fathers blades.;)

LOL :p That tickled me!! Thank you so much, I'm very excited!!

I'm so excited, I don't know where to start. I've purchased apples to make apple sauce. Kale, frozen mango, frozen (organic) strawberries for green and fruit smoothies. I have bananas frozen for ice cream and bought more organic tomatoes so I can make more pasta sauce! Oh my! Where's a girl to start??? Right now I'm just playing with water in the container. :o:p Honest, I am! I know I should be ashamed. lol

[Conscious Midwife]

You will love Veeta

My Gaia has assisted me in
Releasing 12lbs since ReRAWING a week ago today
and 14 total since 12/11 when I realized I really need to Release 99lbs.

Transitional items include "RAW" Agave, Shoya, and Nutritional Yeast and I guess my "RAW" but not hand shelled Cashews. ~ All which mix well in a Vitamixer

I'm ecstatic for both you and me!:D

[OnMyJourney]

You will love Veeta

My Gaia has assisted me in
Releasing 12lbs since ReRAWING a week ago today
and 14 total since 12/11 when I realized I really need to Release 99lbs.

Transitional items include "RAW" Agave, Shoya, and Nutritional Yeast and I guess my "RAW" but not hand shelled Cashews. ~ All which mix well in a Vitamixer

I'm ecstatic for both you and me!:D


Congratulations!! That is AWESOME!! I'm so happy for you! You've got me super stoked even more so now!!! :p *gives Gaia a big hi five for being so awesome* :p

Thanks for the tips on the transitional items. I got the Whole Foods brand organic raw agave today...I'm not sure if it's really raw, but I got it. I forgot the nutritional yeast. I love the cashews but decided to go with goji berries today instead. Yumm! I love them both very much though. I have to look up the shoya not sure I know what that is. *runs off to google* I think that might be the stuff that's similar in consistency to soy sauce.