When confronted with the purchasing cycle, it is a big decision for anyone to determine whether to purchase used or brand new. When it comes to purchasing a forklift and trying to choose between the two options, the best thing to do is know the application requirements for the lift truck. Like for example, figure out the type of machinery which is needed, how long you plan to keep it and how many hours per week or per year you will use it.
Expensive forklifts would normally hold its value over time. It is good to know that a lower priced new lift truck might not have the overall value, dependability and capability of a second-hand unit of a higher priced kind.
When considering a purchase of a new or used lift truck, there are 3 aspects which you must take heed of: utilization, duty cycle and seasonality. If you are thinking of using your lift truck for 4 or more hours per day, it is recommended that you buy a brand new unit, especially if you would have a high-duty cycle. A high-duty cycle means moving lots of loads per hour that are at or near the capacity truck.
However, if you expect to utilize your lift truck for less than 4 hours a day or on an intermittent basis, than purchasing a lower cost new model or a used forklift might be the right option. Some of the newer units are available at lower costs which are manufactured for lower-duty cycles. As well, if you think that you will expect to use the forklift just during particular times of year on a seasonal basis, then a rental program or a second-hand lift truck may best available alternative and could potentially save you a lot of money.
It is essential to anticipate if the forklift is going to be always used or not. This will mean knowing the amount of uptime and dependability required for your particular application.