Tips for Buying a Used Forklift?

Answer 1

Companies that need to control costs should consider purchasing a used forklift rather than a new one. Factors to consider when making the purchasing decision include how much money you have available to spend, how much time your forklift will be in use daily, the type of forklift you need, and how many people you need trained to use it.

Cost is a major factor that prompts a business to purchase a used forklift, but it is not the only consideration. As with buying anything used, a certain amount of risk comes with purchasing a used forklift. Even if the unit is inspected before purchase and even if a factory reconditioned model is purchased, warranty coverage is usually limited and the time in service before failure is unpredictable. Still, used forklifts represent an opportunity for major savings, with prices often hovering around half the price of a new forklift.

Total cost of ownership (TCO) is a factor to consider when determining whether to buy a used forklift. The general rule is if that the machine is heavily used, a new forklift is preferable. Under light use (four hours or less every day), a used forklift makes more sense. This is a general rule, however, and is meant only as a guideline. Whenever possible, get the used forklift inspected by a professional who can alert you should there be any obvious defects in the equipment.

A factor that should also be considered by a company that needs a forklift is the number of people who need to be trained to use it. With the purchase of a new forklift, manufacturers or dealers will include free or discounted training for employees who need to use the equipment. This represents a major cost that can influence the purchasing decision. If only one or two employees need certification for forklift use, a used forklift might make more sense than if ten or twenty employees need training.

Laws and regulation governing the use of forklifts vary by locality, so businesses should be careful to make sure that a used forklift meets all current safety and workplace requirements prior to purchase.