When confronted with the purchasing cycle, it is a big decision for anyone to choose whether to buy used or new. When it comes to purchasing a forklift and trying to decide between the two options, the best thing to do is figure out the application requirements for the lift truck. Like for example, know the kind of machinery that is needed, how long you plan to keep it and the number of hours per year or per week you will use it.
Expensive forklifts will normally hold its value over time. It is good to know that a lower priced brand new lift truck may not have the overall ability, value or dependability of a used unit of a higher priced model.
When considering whether or not to buy a brand new or used lift truck, there are 3 aspects of usage which you may want to take note of: seasonality, utilization and duty cycle. If you are thinking of using your lift truck for at least 4 hours a day, it is recommended that you buy a new model, especially if you would have a high-duty cycle. A high-duty cycle means moving numerous loads per hour that are near or at the capacity truck.
If you just need your lift truck for about 4 hours a day or on an intermittent basis, an inexpensive new unit or second-hand forklift might be optimal. Several of the newer models are available at lower costs that are made for lower-duty cycles. Also, 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 may best option available and can possibly save you lots of money.
It is important to know whether the equipment will be in constant use. This would mean determining the amount of uptime and dependability required for your particular application.