If you’re considering buying a used forklift, you might be concerned about potential problems. You don’t want to get stuck with a lemon or a forklift that constantly needs repairs. You also don’t want to buy the
wrong forklift for what you are trying to accomplish. The great news is that with a little bit of planning and the right guidance, you can find the perfect forklift that is going to serve you well and not break the bank.
To confidently buy a used forklift, focus on understanding your operational requirements, inspecting the equipment’s condition, and reviewing its maintenance history. Pay attention to key components like the engine, mast, and hydraulics. Choose a model suitable for your workload and ensure compliance with safety regulations. Work with reputable suppliers to avoid unnecessary risks and maximize your investment.
So, let’s take a look at the important things you need to know and the expert tips you need to follow to make sure you make a wise purchase when it comes to a used forklift.
Why Consider a Used Forklift Instead of a New One?
There are several advantages to buying a used forklift. Obviously, cost savings is the biggest benefit. Most used forklifts are 30–50% cheaper than their new counterparts. That makes them very attractive to a
business that may be on a budget or need to spend their money elsewhere (such as on expanding their operation or on other equipment).
Another benefit is that they are available immediately. New forklifts often have lead times because it takes a while for them to be constructed, and they are often shipped from overseas. Conversely, used forklifts are often readily available. This solves a logistic problem for many companies that need a forklift immediately to meet seasonal demands or because a forklift broke down.
Finally, many used forklifts still have a lot of life left in them. Even if you buy a used forklift with a large amount of hours, as long as it’s been well-maintained, it can be a great performer. Especially when you
consider the fact that you can buy the forklift for a fraction of what it cost new.
What Are the Key Factors to Inspect in a Used Forklift?
So when you’re looking at buying a used forklift, what do you need to inspect? First, look at the engine. Does the engine show signs of wear, make a lot of noise, blow smoke or fluids, or show signs of leaking? These are all important things because engine rebuilds can be expensive.
Next, look at the mast and the forks. Are the mast and forks straight? Examine the mast, the channels of the mast, and the welds. Look for any cracks. With the forks, check for any bends or welding on them. Forks, by the way, if you are going to use them to push and shove things, are a wear item. So don’t be surprised if you find that the forks are bent. Excessive bends are not normal and a concern.
Be sure to test the hydraulics out thoroughly. They should be smooth in operation. If they’re slow or they’re leaking, you might have a potential problem.Now with electric forklifts, the battery can be a critical component. A weak or damaged battery, or even a battery that doesn’t have enough capacity can result in decreased run time and loss of productivity. Make sure to check. Or, you have an expensive problem on your hands.
If you are looking at an internal combustion forklift, you need to inspect the exhaust system. Is it intact? Is it in compliance with current regulations? There are a number of things that you need to look at. And
if you’re not sure, it’s important to have a competent person help you because you might not know exactly what to look for. Finally, check the forklift’s controls and the tires. Bad tires are a safety hazard. Bad controls can cause all kinds of problems and potential injuries for you or your employees.
How to Determine the Right Forklift Model for Your Needs?
Ensuring that you buy the right forklift is important. There is a lot that goes into deciding the right forklift. If you’re using or considering adding a forklift to your operation, consider the factors below when choosing the right forklift for your application. Capacity is one of the first items to consider. How much do you need to lift? If you exceed the rated capacity for a forklift, you can easily overload the forklift causing increased wear and tear. Not to mention the safety hazards for you or your staff.
On the other end, a forklift that is overpowered for your operation can lead to increased fuel consumption, increased maintenance, and control problems. These could all be detrimental to the operation. Your type of forklift and its tires can also contribute to your operation.
For example, the electric forklifts are great for indoor tight spaces due to their maneuverability. The compact design is a perfect fit for a warehouse environment. However, an outdoor construction site
would likely not benefit from the design of an electric forklift. In harsh conditions, especially where the terrain is uneven and the ground is unlevel, you may be better served with a rough terrain diesel forklift.
What Are the Common Mistakes Buyers Make When Purchasing Used Forklifts?
Buying a used forklift without proper research often leads to regret. A common mistake is neglecting a thorough inspection, assuming that visual appearances reflect mechanical condition. This can result in purchasing equipment with hidden defects, leading to downtime and costly repairs.
Another error is focusing solely on price. While affordability is important, prioritizing the cheapest option can compromise quality and reliability. Buyers should balance price considerations with factors such as brand reputation, maintenance history, and seller credibility.
Some buyers also fail to match the forklift’s specifications with their actual workload. For example, purchasing a forklift with a lower load capacity than required can lead to inefficiency and increased wear. Additionally, ignoring safety features or compliance with regulations can result in operational hazards and legal liabilities.
How to Assess the Maintenance and Repair History of a Forklift?
A forklift’s maintenance history is a window into its overall condition and reliability. Begin by requesting the forklift’s service records from the seller. Look for attention to regular care such as fluid changes, filter replacements, and hydraulic inspections. These practices indicate the owner has looked
after the equipment well.
Also, look for records of major repairs, like engine or mast overhauls. Frequent replacements of key components suggest those parts fail often. You should also evaluate if the repairs were performed with original manufacturer parts and by qualified technicians, as both of these factors can also influence how
long the forklift will last and how well it will perform.
If the seller can’t offer a maintenance history, proceed with caution. The absence of documentation doesn’t mean it wasn’t maintained. However, it does show that there is some risk involved. In this case, it’s almost always best to bring in a third party, a mechanic, to perform a thorough evaluation before you buy.
What Are the Hidden Costs of Owning a Used Forklift?
While used forklifts are more affordable upfront, there are some hidden costs to consider that can make the life cycle costs higher in some cases. First, as with any older piece of equipment, maintenance and repair costs are higher with a used forklift. Parts wear out or break more frequently needing service.
Additionally, older forklift models are not typically known for fuel efficiency. If you require an internal combustion engine for your used forklift, you may end up with something that burns a lot more gas or propane too. If you have an operation that uses forklifts frequently and heavily, this can get real expensive real fast.
Lastly, a hidden cost to consider is downtime. Is it easy for you to find parts if and when the forklift breaks down? You absolutely have to keep that in mind, especially with an imported forklift. If you are buying a used forklift from another country, it could take weeks or even months to get parts shipped in if something goes wrong. Those shipping costs are expensive, and could include taxes, tariffs, and all kinds of additional compliance upgrades to make the machine usable in your country.
How to Choose a Reliable Supplier for Used Forklifts?
Selecting a reputable supplier is the single biggest thing you can do to increase your chances of having a trouble-free experience and getting a good forklift. Here’s how.
• Start by looking for that track record. If the supplier has positive reviews or a strong track record in the used machinery market, that’s always good to see.
• Ask if the supplier provides a transparent, third-party inspection report. This report allows you the buyer to know the actual condition of the machine you’re considering, rather than taking the supplier’s word for it. This should be one of your most essential criteria to buying used forklifts.
• Ask about the warranty on the machine you’re considering. Look for a supplier who stands by their equipment and offers support after you’ve made your purchase.
• Also, check into the department and expertise of the supplier when it comes to logistics and exports. If you’re buying forklifts overseas, or from overseas, ask about their standard process for shipping, handling customs documentation, and international export paperwork. A good supplier will be able to handle all of that for you.
Are Used Forklifts Suitable for Heavy-Duty Applications?
Yes, used forklifts work well even in heavy-duty applications provided you choose the right forklift from the right manufacturer. For example, CAT, Komatsu, or a Toyota forklift are designed to take a beating and work hard no matter what you throw at it day in and day out for years and years. There are some things to look for when choosing a used forklift for heavier duty use. You’ll want to look for reinforced masts and other wear points. Make sure the undercarriage, whether it’s tires or tracks, is built with heavy duty components. The last thing in the world you want is a forklift breaking down with a heavy load up in the air.
One of the keys to making sure it’s capable of carrying what you need is to ask the seller if you can put some things you normally carry on to the forks, or plates specifically set up for testing, and carry “test” loads to verify the forklift can handle what it’s supposed to.
How to Ensure Compliance with Safety Regulations for Used Forklifts?
When buying a used forklift, safety is non-negotiable. It is non-negotiable. Make sure the forklift you’re buying complies with all the safety laws and regulations in your country. That means you have brakes, lights, etc. Plus, you have whatever information is required to legally operate the forklift in your area, whether that’s brake tests, load capacity plates, or something else.
Ask the seller to provide you with a safety inspection certificate or the result of their last safety inspection. Better yet, hire a third-party safety inspector to look at the machine for you. The last thing in the world you need is a giant piece of heavy equipment killing one of your employees or a customer due to neglect of maintenance or operation. And for crying out loud! Only let people operate that forklift who have been properly trained how to do so in a manner that is safe and meets workplace safety requirements.
What Are the Most Popular Forklift Brands in the Used Market?
When it comes to used forklift brands, a couple of names stand out because they have a great reputation for reliability and longevity in their machines. Toyota and Caterpillar (we call it a CAT forklift) are a couple of examples that come to mind. People like them because they run forever and they are easy to maintain.
Komatsu is another name that you see a lot in the used forklift market. Komatsu touts their rugged construction and say it’s one of the most versatile machines you can buy for moving stuff from here to there and back again. If you’re looking for an electric forklift from a place like Jungheinrich or a two- or three-wheel lift from Linde, you’re in luck because you’re talking to a couple of the most fuel-efficient forklifts or machines with some of the lowest emissions. If you’re seeking dependable performance for a reasonable price, you could consider a used forklift from Hyster or Clark.
Summary
Purchasing a used forklift is a cost-effective way to enhance your business’s operational efficiency as long as you make the purchase thoughtfully. Make sure you understand what you need, inspect the big things, study the maintenance records, make sure you’re buying from a reputable company, and ensure the forklift is compliant with all safety standards. When you do those things, a purchased used forklift means a long time of more significant profits and less wasted time for you. For more information or professional advice, feel free to contact us.
