For anybody determine whether to buy used or brand new forklift, it is a very 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 example, know the kind of machine that is required, how long you plan to keep it and how many hours per year or per week you would use it.
Higher priced forklifts will usually hold its value over time. It is good to remember that a lower priced new forklift may not have the overall ability, value or dependability of a second-hand unit of a higher priced model.
When considering a purchase of a brand new or used lift truck, there are 3 aspects that you should take heed of: utilization, duty cycle and seasonality. If you are thinking of utilizing your lift truck for at least 4 hours a day, it is better that you buy a brand new unit, specially 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.
On the other hand, if you expect to use your forklift for less than 4 hours per day or on an irregular basis, than purchasing a lower cost brand new model or a second-hand lift truck might be the best alternative. Several of the newer models are available at lower costs that are manufactured for lower-duty cycles. Moreover, if you think that you will expect to use the forklift only during specific times of year on a seasonal basis, then a second-hand lift truck or a rental program may best available alternative and could potentially save you a lot of money.
It is essential to know whether the equipment would be always used. This will mean knowing the amount of uptime and dependability needed for your certain application.