The popularity of a forklift truck could be witnessed at places like commercial buildings, factories, construction companies, and warehouses, where this machine is used to lift and transport all the materials from bigger trucks to the desired destination. The use of a forklift cuts off the manual labor and improves the speed and quality of work. It also saves the concerned material from getting damaged.
The markets are full with a variety of forklifts showcasing different features and specifications. While looking for a forklift to carry out smooth business operations, you may consider two options – either you buy a brand-new forklift or you save some money and get second-hand equipment to fulfill your purpose.
In this article, we have covered some useful tips that you must consider if you are choosing the latter option:
Consider the age of the forklift:
Buying a second-hand forklift doesn’t mean picking a machine as old as ten years. Even a 7-year-old forklift may become prone to damages now and then. It is suggested by experts to choose a forklift with the maximum age of five years. Anything beyond five years can be problematic to use.
Check the operational background of the machine:
While buying a second-hand forklift for long-term use, do not overlook checking the operational background or history of the forklift. Checking such details shall give you an insight into the use of the forklift and to what extent. Inquire the details such as where was the forklift used previously, what was its demand, under what temperature did it work, what was the process of maintenance of such forklift. If you are satisfied with all the answers, seal the contract and go for it.
Inspect the condition of the forklift:
Another useful aspect to consider while buying a second-hand forklift is its overall condition. Take your time and monitor the overall condition of the equipment. There are several areas that you must specifically inspect while looking for a second-hand forklift. Check the forks of the machine and do not buy them if the forks are in a broken condition.
Inspect the areas such as lift chains, mast, and tires of the equipment and find the loopholes. A transmission constitutes an essential part of the forklift. While buying a second-hand forklift, inspect the transmission system of the equipment. If you are buying a second-hand machine from a reputed brand such as Taylor, you may easily avail of Taylor forklift transmission repair and use the equipment. However, if your forklift is generic, we recommend not to buy it with a damaged transmission.
Other factors that are equally important to inspect include safety elements of the machine, tires, engine, etc.,
Calculate affordability:
The cost of a second-hand device is cheaper than the new ones. But that doesn’t mean that you don’t consider the factor of affordability at all. Some second-hand forklifts may cost you much cheaper than the others. Such forklifts may be in a good state. On the other hand, the cost of some second-hand devices may be higher than the others.
In all such cases, begin hunting for a forklift after deciding your budget.
Check for the maintenance facilities:
Merely buying a second-hand forklift will not serve your purpose. You must also check if you can maintain it in the long run. Therefore, before finalizing your purchase, ensure that the part and services of the used forklift are available in your area so that you do not face any trouble while taking care of it.
Takeaway:
Buying a used forklift is not always a loss. It could help you save a lot of money. Just go for a trial and inspect all the vital aspects. You can also get a used forklift from the various offline platforms. The outcome of your decision will ultimately fallback on your inspection skills. Follow the above pointers to filter and settle on the best forklift for you.
