When confronted with the purchasing cycle, it is a huge decision for anyone to choose whether to buy used or brand new. When it comes to purchasing a lift truck and trying to choose between the two options, the best thing to do is know the application needs for the lift truck. Like for example, know the type of machine that is required, how long you intend to keep it and how many hours per year or per week you would use it.
Normally, an expensive forklift will hold its value longer over time. It is good to remember that a lower priced brand new lift truck might not have the overall reliability, ability or value of a used unit of a higher priced type.
When deciding whether or not to buy a new or used lift truck, there are 3 aspects of usage which you might wish to take note of: utilization, duty cycle and seasonality. If you are thinking of using your lift truck for 4 or more hours a day, it is recommended that you purchase a brand new model, particularly 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.
Nevertheless, if you expect to use your lift truck for less than 4 hours per day or on an intermittent basis, than buying an inexpensive new unit or a second-hand forklift may be the best option. Several of the newer units are available at lower costs which are manufactured for lower-duty cycles. In addition, if you think that you would expect to utilize the forklift only during particular times of year on a seasonal basis, then a rental program or a used lift truck may best alternative available and can possibly save you lots of money.
It is important to know whether the machinery will be always used. This will mean determining the amount of uptime and dependability required for your certain application.