If you own a warehouse or workhouse, you already know that forklifts are an integral part of your operations.
You need it to lift and transport items, and in a busy environment, you might need more forklifts to ease the workload. However, forklifts definitely don’t come cheap, and if you are not aiming to spend a grand chunk of money at the moment, buying second hand forklifts can be one of your best options.
Rather than spending a huge amount on a brand-new model, you can invest in a previously owned forklift truck to enjoy great deals and offers. You can choose a used forklift from any brand of your choice from a trusted dealer in your local area.
Top Things to Look for When Buying Used Forklifts
Now, a used forklift can definitely save you money, but you need to do a thorough inspection and research before buying them. This ensures you get a quality-tested product, suitable for your business operations.
If you are in the market for a second hand forklift for your company, this article is a must-read. We have provided top details that will help you when buying a used forklift; here’s what to consider:
Understand Your Needs
Knowing what you need the forklift for is the first phase in making a smart purchase.
How do you plan on putting that forklift to work? Do you plan on utilising it occasionally in a warehouse, or will it be subjected to harsh conditions 24/7?
Before you go out and start looking for a used forklift, consider the following questions. Knowing where you’re willing to make sacrifices and where you need to prioritise quality while developing an application.
Conduct a Visual Inspection
The logic and clarity of this are very straightforward and make perfect sense.
Generally speaking, you should always visually inspect any significant purchase, especially when buying costly machinery.
Before committing to anything, you can get a feel for how things look with this. Examine the item for signs of damage, such as cracks, fluid leaks, and general wear and tear. Remember that online pictures can sometimes lie, so it’s better to do the inspection physically.
In addition, ensure the battery and charger are working well before purchasing an electric model.
Wholesalers & Individuals – Who Do You Buy From?
A private vendor could offer a lower price, but they are less likely to be familiar with the machinery they sell. They don’t know about any preexisting problems with their second hand forklifts. They don’t see the forklift service or usage histories, which can significantly predict how long they’ll last.
Simply put, you should thoroughly question any wholesaler or individual vendor you consider using.
Go for a Test Drive
Forklifts are expensive, so conducting a thorough equipment evaluation is crucial before committing to a forklift rent-to-own arrangement. A test drive is essential to ensure it works as stated; ensure you or your coworker are up to the task.
Conduct a test drive on a smooth and uncontaminated road surface to evaluate the performance of the brakes, steering, suspension, and other relevant components to verify their proper functioning. One important thing to do is see if the engine cranks over when cold. If it doesn’t, it could be a sign of technical trouble.
Check the Cumulative Time of Use
Verify the log books to see how often each forklift has been used. Forklifts keep tabs on key and usage hours, but the former is more crucial. When powered on, forklifts keep track of valuable time. Since many forklift components aren’t needed during downtime, this metric may need to be more accurate.
Equipment usage is monitored in terms of time. More precise usage hours are recorded based on the operator’s actions. Full-time forklifts can work 2,000 hours yearly, whereas part-time ones can only work 1,000.
Part-time use is ideal for a used forklift. Depending on your specific circumstances, you may be willing to settle for full-time usage in exchange for a reduced rate. A used forklift driven daily is equivalent to purchasing a used automobile with many miles on it.
Check The Warranty
A reliable warranty is an essential factor to consider when purchasing pre-owned equipment. It is crucial to understand the length of your warranty, the specifics of what it covers, and, more significantly, what it does not cover. Ensure that the manufacturer transfers the warranty to you if you buy a used forklift while it’s still under warranty. Nevertheless, there are restrictions on transferring warranties from one owner to another.
Long-Term Running Expenses
While purchasing used forklifts could save you money in the short term; you may spend more in the long run. Used forklift repair costs for a second hand forklift can quickly add up and increase the total cost of ownership.
Therefore, you should refrain from making snap decisions based on the initial price you’re given. Instead, you should familiarise yourself with the machinery and ensure everything from the engine to the wheels to the controls works as it should. For future replacement costs, you should also ensure that the forklift parts are easily accessible and inexpensive for the machine you’ve settled on.
Instead of forking over cash for brand-new machinery, second hand purchases can serve the same purpose. There are a variety of tax-efficient financing solutions accessible to businesses. Feel free to consult the sales staff at your neighbourhood dealership; they’re familiar with all the models and can help you decide which suits your needs.
