For anyone determine whether to purchase used or new forklift, it is a really big decision when confronted with the purchasing cycle. The best thing to do is to know the application requirements for the forklift, when trying to choose between the two options. Like for example, figure out the kind of machine which is needed, how long you plan to keep it and the number of hours per year or per week you would utilize it.
Expensive forklifts will normally hold its value over time. It is good to remember that an inexpensive new lift truck might not have the overall ability, value or reliability of a used unit of an expensive kind.
When considering a purchase of a new or second-hand lift truck, there are 3 aspects that you should take heed of: seasonality, utilization and duty cycle. If you are thinking of utilizing your lift truck for 4 or more hours a day, it is better that you purchase a new model, specially if you would have a high-duty cycle. A high-duty cycle means moving many loads per hour that are at or near the capacity truck.
If you only need your lift truck for about 4 hours per day or on an irregular basis, an inexpensive new unit or second-hand forklift may be optimal. Some of the newer units are available at lower costs that are made for lower-duty cycles. In addition, if you think that you will expect to use the forklift just during particular times of year on a seasonal basis, then a used lift truck or a rental program might best available option and can potentially save you lots of money.
It is vital to know whether the machinery would be always used. This will mean knowing the amount of uptime and dependability required for your particular application.