You’ve probably heard the old argument about buying old vs. new cars. Older cars are often cheaper, but newer cars are less likely to have mechanical issues.
Purchasing small forklifts works the same way. There are pros and cons to buying older models vs. newer ones.
But we’re not here to discuss the advantages or disadvantages of buying an old or new forklift. We want to focus on what you should consider when buying pre-owned models.
Below are five things you should keep in mind when purchasing used lift trucks for your forklift operations. Keep reading to learn more from this handy guide.
1. Should You Buy a Used Forklift?
First, consider if a refurbished model is right for you. Older forklifts may not last as long as their newer counterparts and may need extra maintenance.
A new forklift might work best if your project has low downtime and high productivity. But, newer small forklifts are more expensive.
The difference in price makes sense; you’re paying for advanced technology and safety features. Buying older models can be risky, but their cheaper rates often work better for budgeting.
2. Make Sure You Can Trust the Seller
Be sure you can trust the seller whether you’re buying an old or new lift truck. Do your research on your chosen seller.
Check that they’re not cheating you on the forklift cost, and ask (or read reviews) if they repair their products. For example, 99Lifts inventory has a stringent refurbishment process before cleaning and painting.
They carry many types of forklifts and put them through their paces before sale. Don’t be afraid to ask your chosen company’s refurbishment process before buying from them.
3. Do a Visual Inspection
Trusting companies is fine, but you should still visually inspect equipment in person if possible. Spotted issues are often fixable but may indicate misuse, which may mean the machine is unreliable.
Don’t be fooled by the forklift brand. More expensive modes can be rendered unreliable by previous misuse. Pricey repairs can waste all your savings from purchasing a used forklift.
4. Ask About Previous Forklift Applications
Ask the seller about the prior usage of the forklift. You may find this out from the previous owner. Lift trucks used near salt water and colder areas may suffer corrosion and brittle seals respectively.
Humid environments can introduce moisture to electrical systems. Small forklifts used for heavy-duty work may have extreme wear and tear.
5. Find the Forklift’s Age
The perfect age for used forklifts is around half a decade. But a lift truck’s age also depends on its lifetime usage. A slightly used seven-year-old, forklift may be better than a two-year-old one stored in a cold area.
What to Know About Buying Used Small Forklifts
There is much to consider when buying used small forklifts. First, consider if a used forklift is right for you.
Ensure the seller is trustworthy, inspect the lift truck, and ask about previous applications. Finally, you should find out how old the forklift is.
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