Factors to Consider When Buying a Used Forklift

Although all second-hand forklifts look the same and it can be easy to presume that all forklifts will have the same capabilities as each other, but this isn’t the case. This is why it’s important that you understand what each and every used forklift has to offer you. Whether one can lift a greater wait or reach a greater height than another, you need to be able to cater for your unique operations by considering what each one can do.

Some of the questions you might want to ask yourself when it comes to whether or not a used forklift can meet your requirements are:

• Is the forklift truck going to be used regularly or only when demand is high?
• Do I need the forklift to carry out operations inside, outdoors or both?
• What weight do I need the forklift to carry?
• Will the loads be balanced accordingly for everyone’s safety?
• Do I have enough room for a vehicle this big or do I need a smaller one?
• Is the mast tall enough to carry out the work?
• Is the mast short enough to fit through doorways, ceilings and warehouse racking?

If you can’t match the used forklift against your individual needs, then you shouldn’t go through with the purchase. It’s important that it suits your requirements from the outset and not changed or altered further down the line, which will also end up costing you even more money. 

Making modifications will also mitigate any savings you made choosing to buy a used forklift over a new one – another reason to make sure the second-hand alternative is perfect from the start. 

Buying a used forklift online seems like a convenient option, but where it might seem like a good idea, it isn’t when it comes to purchasing a forklift to improve and enhance your warehouse operations. 

It’s recommended that you actually go and see the forklift in real life before making any transaction. If you’re satisfied upon viewing the machine yourself, only then should you place your online order or you could even see if the seller will take money for it while you’re there, if possible.

Some of the warning signs to look out for when inspecting a used forklift include:

• Rust

• Damage

• Cracks

• Old or previous repair work

• Shoddy repair work

• General leaks

Although stumbling across these things doesn’t deem the forklift worthless, you could end up knocking some money off the asking price or ask them to rectify the issues you’ve spotted before taking it off their hands, much like buying a second-hand car.

Test drive the second-hand forklift you’re interested in

Again, you wouldn’t buy a used car without test driving it first, just to see how it handles, how comfortable it is and just generally whether it’s right for you or not. If you’re not a trained forklift operator, you should bring someone with you who is qualified to handle such machines.

Generally, those who are trained in forklift operation will carry out the maintenance for them as well, so ask them, on your behalf, to check for any leaks from either the transmission or hydraulics, just as a safety precaution and the forklift should also be able to start from cold.

Ask if the refurbished forklift is still under warranty

This is one of the most important documents that you’ll be provided with when buying a used forklift truck, so make sure that the vehicle does still have a warranty either on the machine itself or on certain parts and components. 

Not only will this save you money further down the line, but it’ll also ensure you’ll receive many more hours of service. If the forklift doesn’t have a warranty on it, then it’s not recommended that you make the purchase.

Inspect the Certificate of Thorough Examination

 In addition to the warranty document, this is also a highly-important document when it comes to the purchase of a second-hand forklift. This basically reiterates, officially, that the machine is compliant with all appropriate and necessary regulations. Without this certificate, you can’t be fully sure that the vehicle actually operates safely, if at all.

 Ask to see this before committing to a purchase and request an independent inspection if you’re still not sure about the overall health of the vehicle. If the seller can’t provide you with this, then don’t go through with the sale. 

How can Charnwood Lift Trucks help you?

Charnwood Lift Trucks are pleased to be able to offer our customers an extensive range of used warehouse machines, including second-hand forklifts, that have been meticulously refurbished and maintained to an excellent standard. Regardless of your budget, you can rest assured that you’ll be provided with a high-quality vehicle that’ll stand the test of time.

No matter what it is you’re looking for, you’ll have a wide range of different material handling machines available to you from some of the industry’s leading manufacturers. You don’t always have to splash out on brand new forklifts to keep your warehouse operations ahead of the game – opt for used forklifts from Charnwood Lift Trucks and you’ll be guaranteed to get the job done.

For more information about how we can help you today, get in touch with a member of our professional, knowledgeable team – we’re always on hand to meet your individual needs and requirements and keep your warehouse operations running as smoothly as possible.