For anybody determine whether to buy used or brand new forklift, it is a really big decision when confronted with the purchasing cycle. The best thing to do is to figure out the application needs for the lift truck, when trying to choose between the two options. Like for instance, figure out the type of machinery that is required, how long you plan to keep it and the number of hours per year or per week you will utilize it.
Usually, a higher priced forklift will hold its value longer over time. It is good to know that a lower priced brand new lift truck may not have the overall reliability, ability or value of a second-hand unit of a higher priced model.
When considering whether or not to purchase a brand new or second-hand lift truck, there are 3 aspects of usage which you might want to take note of: utilization, duty cycle and seasonality. If you are thinking of using your lift truck for at least 4 hours a day, it is better that you purchase a brand new unit, particularly if you would have a high-duty cycle. A high-duty cycle means moving numerous loads per hour which are near or at the capacity truck.
However, if you expect to use your lift truck for less than 4 hours per day or on an intermittent basis, than buying a lower cost new unit or a second-hand lift truck may be the best option. Several of the newer units are available at lower costs which are manufactured for lower-duty cycles. Furthermore, if you think that you would expect to use the forklift only during particular times of year on a seasonal basis, then a used lift truck or a rental program may best choice available and can potentially save you lots of money.
It is vital to know whether the machine will be in constant use. This would mean knowing the amount of uptime and dependability required for your particular application.