When confronted with the purchasing cycle, it is a big decision for anyone to choose whether to purchase used or brand new. In terms of buying a forklift and trying to choose between the two options, the best thing to do is know the application needs for the lift truck. For example, figure out the type of machinery which is required, the number of hours per week or per year you would use it and how long you plan to keep it.
Expensive forklifts will usually hold its value over time. It is good to remember that a lower priced new forklift might not have the overall reliability, ability or value of a second-hand unit of a higher priced model.
When considering a purchase of a new or second-hand 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 recommended that you buy a new unit, particularly if you would have a high-duty cycle. A high-duty cycle means moving lots of loads per hour which are near or at the capacity truck.
On the other hand, if you expect to use your lift truck for less than 4 hours a day or on an irregular basis, than purchasing an inexpensive new unit or a used lift truck may be the right option. Several of the newer units are available at lower costs which are made for lower-duty cycles. Additionally, if you think that you would expect to use the forklift only during particular times of year on a seasonal basis, then a second-hand lift truck or a rental program may best available option and can potentially save you a lot of money.
It is important to know whether the machinery would be in constant use. This would mean determining the amount of uptime and dependability needed for your certain application.