9 Things To Consider When Buying Used Forklifts

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Purchasing used forklifts can be a cost-effective solution for businesses looking to expand their fleets without breaking the bank. By purchasing pre-owned equipment from a legitimate forklift truck dealer, you can save significantly compared to buying new and then allocate the savings to other crucial areas of your business. However, to ensure that your investment delivers long-term value, it’s essential to approach the purchase with a clear checklist of considerations.

To that end, here are a few significant factors that you should evaluate before buying a used forklift:

Assess Your Operational Needs

Before you start shopping for used forklifts, define your operational requirements and determine what the forklift will be used for. Consider the type of loads you’ll be handling, the maximum weight capacity required, and the height you need to lift materials. Also, think about the environment in which the forklift will operate as well, be it indoors or outdoors, and whether specific features like compactness or high manoeuvrability are necessary. Taking stock of your daily tasks beforehand can help you select used forklift models that are built to handle these activities efficiently.

Inspect the Forklift’s Condition

The physical and mechanical condition of a used forklift is one of the most critical factors to evaluate while shopping for one. Before making the final decision, conduct a thorough inspection of the vehicle. This means paying attention to key components such as the mast, forks, tyres, engine, and hydraulics. Also, check for signs of wear and tear, rust, leaks, or cracks that could indicate underlying issues and impact the unit’s performance.

If you’re not confident in assessing the forklift yourself, hire a professional technician to conduct an inspection. This way, you can be sure that you won’t overlook potential problems that could lead to costly repairs down the line.

Review the Unit’s Maintenance and Service Records

A well-maintained forklift will perform better and last longer, so it’s in your best interest to buy a unit that was well-cared for by its previous owner. You can check for this by requesting the equipment’s service history. This allows you to assess whether or not the unit has undergone routine maintenance, major repairs, and parts replacements.

Consistent servicing is a good indicator of reliability, while gaps in the maintenance history may indicate that the unit did not receive proper upkeep. A detailed service record can also provide insights into potential future maintenance and replacement costs and help you assess the forklift’s overall value.

Verify the Hours of Operation

Forklifts, like other types of vehicles, experience wear and tear over time. However, their lifespan is often measured in hours of use rather than mileage. When shopping, make sure to check the hour meter to see how many hours the forklift has been in operation. High usage hours can indicate significant wear on the engine and transmission, which means that you should prepare for additional repairs or replacements should you choose to purchase the unit.

Do note that hours alone don’t determine a forklift’s condition, but they do provide a useful benchmark. Combine this information with the maintenance records and a physical inspection to gauge the equipment’s remaining lifespan and whether it’s worth its current price.

Evaluate Its Safety Features

Safety should never be compromised, especially in material handling operations. Keeping this in mind, make sure the used forklift is equipped with all necessary safety features. This includes seatbelts, lights, mirrors, and warning alarms. Confirm that these features are all in good working condition. In addition, check whether the forklift complies with current safety regulations. If upgrades or modifications are required to meet standards, factor these costs into your budget.

Consider the Brand and Model Reputation

Certain forklift brands and models are known for their durability and reliability, while others have cultivated a reputation for ease of maintenance. Research the reputation of the used forklift brands and models in the market to understand how they perform in real-world applications. It’s a good idea to look for reviews from other businesses and see how they rated the specific forklift that you’re thinking of purchasing.

Evaluate the Cost of Ownership

While the initial purchase price of a used forklift is a key factor when making a purchasing decision, it’s also important to consider the total cost of ownership. Think of the expenses related to maintenance, repairs, fuel, insurance, and potential downtime. Then, calculate these costs to ensure that the forklift remains a financially viable option in the long term. A slightly higher upfront cost for a well-maintained second-hand forklift with lower operating expenses may prove more cost-effective than a cheaper but poorly maintained unit.

Test Drive the Forklift

A test drive is an invaluable step in the buying process to evaluate its performance and responsiveness, as well as assess whether your operators will find the unit easy to handle. During the test drive, pay attention to the engine’s sound, brake functionality, and steering accuracy. Ensure that the controls are intuitive and responsive, too. It’s smart to test the forklift in conditions similar to your daily operations, as doing so can reveal issues that might not be apparent during a stationary inspection.

Check for Warranty or After-Sales Support

Some used forklifts may come with a limited warranty or after-sales support. While this isn’t always the case, having a warranty provides added peace of mind and protection against unexpected repairs. If the seller doesn’t offer a warranty, consider negotiating for one or at least seeking an extended service plan. It’s also critical to find a seller that offers after-sales support, such as access to spare parts and servicing.

 

Buying used forklifts can be a smart and economical choice for the discerning buyer. By practicing due diligence and thoroughly evaluating your options, you’ll be able to invest in equipment that meets your needs and supports your success for years to come.