Looking for your next forklift can be an overwhelming experience. There may be a few factors that can help point you in the right direction for this decision.
New forklifts are not only expensive but can require you to invest time and money to learn their new features, or purchase attachments for your particular application. Perhaps you cannot afford to do that if you are already running short on money and time. In this scenario, buying a pre-owned forklift can offer unique advantages over investing in a new one.
By going with a used forklift, you will save money and minimize the blow of depreciation. Still not convinced?
Here are some key reasons why you may want to buy a used forklift truck.
Saving You Money:
As you start to think about whether you will purchase a new or second-hand forklift and consider all the ongoing costs of running your business, it might become apparent that buying a brand new piece of equipment is an unnecessary luxury. If you don’t have a lot of money to invest, a new forklift can really minimize your buying options in terms of quality and performance. Going with a pre-owned option might actually get you a better quality forklift than buying a new, lower quality unit.
A pre-owned forklift is generally more cost effective than a brand new model even if they have only been used lightly. In fact, buying a used forklift can save you a significant amount compared to the price of new equipment. Sometimes, you can also buy two used forklifts at the cost of a new one.
Quick Availability:
The lead time for a brand new forklift can be longer as it generally takes a couple of weeks, or longer, from the time an order is placed. If your previous machine breaks down and you need to get back to work ASAP, you can opt for a used lift truck that is in stock.
When buying a pre-owned forklift, you will generally acquire it quickly as they are generally in stock and ready to go. This way, you can use the equipment as soon as you buy it and avoid a lengthy delivery time as well.
Simple Maintenance:
It is easy to keep your used forklift maintained. Servicing them could be quicker and simpler for mechanics as they are more familiar with the technology. Also, spare parts are more readily available for later model units than for new machines.
Moreover, by choosing a used forklift, you are likely to get a machine that is inspected and repaired by experts to maintain it’s performance. Many pre-owned machines come with a warranty as well.
Easy to Operate:
While new forklifts are technologically advanced, they have certain features that your operators may be unfamiliar with. Needless to say, you may have to spend more time and money on training before any new forklift is operated, however that might not be the case with a used lift. This is because your operators are familiar with the controls and other features, meaning that the machine can be used as soon as you buy it.
Ensuring Durability and Reliability:
When you buy a pre-owned forklift, you get peace of mind knowing that the forklift you bought has previously proved its reliability by working in its previous worksite. Think of it as one of those workers, seasoned in the field, that provides a lot of value to your business.
Confidence in a machine is important for a successful operation and the well-used forklifts are just like an industrious machine that’s always ready to perform. You must consider the source of used lift trucks. We here at Permian generate most of our used inventory through our rental fleet. What that means to the end user is that this machine has been maintained throughout it’s service life by professionals in the way that the factory intended as well as an assurance that quality parts were also implemented during said maintenance or repairs. We may acquire units a few different ways as well. We take trade- ins and also purchase units at the end of lease from financial institutions also. In these scenarios we have a technician evaluate the condition of these units and make the appropriate repairs and perform the maintenance required to bring these units up to “spec”.
Even if repair is required, a slightly aged forklift can be more cost effective to repair than buying a new one. It is very important to research these repairs before making a purchase. It would not be advantageous to purchase a used unit needing repairs vs. purchasing a new ready-to-go machine at the same cost. Also, even if the parts are cheaper, used parts at a big discount is a gamble. Typically, good parts are not removed from functional equipment.
If you do decide to purchase a used machine from a third party It is highly recommended that a qualified tech or service entity evaluate the unit and perform any repairs before the machine is put to work. For one, it is better to catch damaged parts before they cause more damage to other parts of the machine. This can cause more downtime and higher repair bills than you were anticipating.
You Can Operate it In Rough Conditions:
When you buy a brand-new forklift, you may want to be careful as minor damage can spoil its shiny appearance. You could get caught up in preserving the newness of the truck. Some applications are dirty and rough on equipment, it’s just the nature of the beast. In certain applications you can operate your used truck knowing that it will become scratched and worn instantaneously due to the environment of the application.
You Buy It with Real Expectations:
One of the key benefits of buying any used equipment is that enough time has passed for you to get familiar with its ins and outs. You know what to expect from that machine as you have driven it for years and years.
An experienced operator can share insight as to which manufacturers are prone to breakdowns and which ones have a reputation for longevity and durability.
There are many lift truck manufacturers out there. While they are not all equal, many are on an even keel as far as quality and longevity are concerned. Here is where your local lift truck dealer comes into play. Even though there are many great manufacturers out there, these units are all individuals like people. Even a brand-new lift truck will not last at all without any maintenance. Find a reputable vendor and confirm that they are able to procure replacement parts and provide maintenance for which ever lift truck you decide to purchase.
So are you convinced you now know the benefits of buying a used forklift over a new one? What are your thoughts? Let us know by commenting below!