Used Forklift Sales

10 Buying Tips For Second Hand Forklifts

In these difficult economic times, most companies are looking for ways to cut and keep costs down. When it comes to purchasing a forklift truck for material handling in the warehouse, used forklifts can be a sensible way to economise.

You should really only consider buying a used forklift truck if the following criteria apply to its use:

  • The forklift will only be in use for a single shift
  • The forklift is needed for no more than five days per week
  • The operation it is used for is not a high output, non stop type of job

There are a number of different types of used forklifts for sale. What type you purchase depends upon its usage. The best forklift for outdoor work is a gas driven model with solid or pneumatic tires. An electric driven forklift is better suited for indoor usage. Like any heavy machinery or construction equipment you may use the reliability and safety of the equipment is most important. The following are ten things one should definitely look for when accessing a used forklift truck:

  1. Consider how well it has been maintained. Ask the seller if you can see the vehicles maintenance and repair logs that are associated with the forklift.
  2. Check the mast operation of the vehicle, both unladen and with its full rated load. Check for both a smoothness in general operation and a lack of “binding”.
  3. If the forklift truck you are looking at has a special attachment, a paper roll clamp for instance, does not forget to put it through its paces too.
  4. Look for leaks in the transmission, engine, radiator and cylinders. Wait until the forklift has been running for a few minutes before you do so.
  5. If you intend to use the forklift as a pallet stacker, evaluate how much free lift capability the vehicle you are looking at has, more is better.
  6. Condition is more important than age. An older used forklift that has only been engaged in light work may have years of useful life left, as much as a newer model that has been used for very long shifts or run non stop.
  7. Check the forks. Excessive fork wear will decrease the performance of a forklift, especially if it is to be used as a pallet truck.
  8. Check the tires. Uneven wear usually indicates an axle misalignment.
  9. Ensure all the required safety equipment is present and correct, and that it is in good general condition
  10. Do not be afraid to ask for a test drive, and perhaps ask if you can put the forklift through a few basic high low tasks.
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