It’s no secret that purchasing a new forklift is costly. It’s often a better investment to buy used, but it can take time to tell the difference between a good and bad deal. Here are some tips for spotting a good deal for used forklifts.
Check the Age of the Forklift
Forklifts typically last around 8,000 hours before they need to be replaced or refurbished. When shopping for a used forklift, check how many hours it has been in service. The older the machine is, the more likely it will require repairs and maintenance soon after purchase.
Do Your Research
When looking for used forklifts for sale, It’s essential to research the brand of your potential purchase and read reviews from other buyers. It would be best to study what similar models are selling for to understand what’s considered fair market value. This way, you can avoid overpaying or getting taken advantage of by an unscrupulous seller.
Inspect In Person
You should inspect any used forklift in person before making a purchase decision. This allows you to look for signs of wear and tear and know if its current condition suits your needs. You should also take this opportunity to check that all safety features are functioning correctly and that there are no visible flaws in the machine itself. Bring an experienced mechanic to help assess its condition even further before buying it.
Check Its Maintenance History
Every machine needs regular maintenance and servicing to stay operational and safe for use, so make sure you request proof that this has been done regularly with any potential purchases. Ask about when the last oil change was done and whether any significant components have been replaced recently. Knowing its detailed maintenance history can help determine how long it may remain operational without needing major repairs or replacements.
Test Drive It
A test drive can provide invaluable insight into how the machine operates under real-world conditions. Take note of how responsive controls are if the steering is smooth and whether there are any strange noises from within. Any issues that arise during these tests should be addressed immediately with the seller before finalizing your purchase agreement.
Know Your Budget
Decide your budget beforehand so you don’t end up paying too much for something that doesn’t meet your needs. Factor in additional costs like insurance rates and maintenance fees into your budget so you’re fully prepared ahead of time.
Make Sure Parts & Repairs Are Available
Lastly, when looking for used forklifts for sale, make sure parts and repairs are available from local suppliers in case anything goes wrong after purchase. This way, if something does happen, you will be able to get parts or repairs quickly, meaning less downtime between tasks.
Good Deals When Looking For Used Forklifts For Sale – In Conclusion
Buying used forklifts can be tricky, but with these tips, it doesn’t have to be. By doing your research, inspecting any potential purchases in person, testing them out beforehand, setting realistic budgets, and ensuring parts & repair services are available locally, you’ll be well on your way toward finding a great deal on a quality used forklift.
