For anyone determine whether to buy used or new lift truck, it is a very big decision when confronted with the purchasing cycle. The best thing to do is to figure out the application requirements for the forklift, when trying to choose between the two options. For example, figure out the kind of machinery that is needed, how long you intend to keep it and the number of hours per week or per year you will utilize it.
Higher priced forklifts would usually hold its value over time. It is good to know that a lower priced brand new forklift may not have the overall value, reliability and ability of a second-hand unit of a higher priced type.
When considering whether or not to buy a new or second-hand lift truck, there are 3 aspects of usage that you might want to take note of: duty cycle, seasonality and utilization. If you are thinking of utilizing your lift truck for 4 or more hours per day, it is better that you buy a new unit, particularly if you will have a high-duty cycle. A high-duty cycle means moving numerous loads per hour which are at or near the capacity truck.
Nonetheless, if you expect to use your forklift for less than 4 hours per day or on an intermittent basis, than buying an inexpensive new model or a second-hand lift truck might be the best option. Some of the newer units are available at lower costs which are manufactured for lower-duty cycles. Moreover, if you think that you would expect to utilize the forklift only during specific times of year on a seasonal basis, then a second-hand lift truck or a rental program may best alternative available and could potentially save you a lot of money.
It is vital to know whether the equipment will be always used. This will mean knowing the amount of uptime and dependability needed for your certain application.