Common Mistakes To Avoid When Purchasing A Used Forklift

When it comes to purchasing a used forklift, businesses often look to save costs while still acquiring a reliable and efficient piece of equipment. While buying a used forklift can be a smart decision, it is essential to approach the process with caution. Without proper knowledge and guidance, one may fall prey to common mistakes resulting in costly repairs, safety concerns, and overall dissatisfaction. In this article, we will discuss the most common mistakes to avoid when purchasing a used forklift, ensuring a successful and cost-effective investment.

Choosing price over quality

While cost-saving is a common motive for purchasing a used forklift, prioritising price over quality can be a grave mistake. Opting for the cheapest available option without considering factors like brand reputation, age, condition, and suitability for your specific needs can result in purchasing a subpar machine. Instead, invest in a forklift that balances price and quality, ensuring it meets your operational requirements and has a reasonable lifespan.

Neglecting detailed inspection

One of the most significant mistakes buyers make when purchasing a used forklift is failing to conduct a thorough inspection. It is crucial to closely examine the forklift’s components, including the mast, hydraulic system, brakes, engine, and tyres. Look for signs of wear and tear, leaks, rust, or any damage that could affect its performance. Engage a professional technician to assess the forklift’s mechanical condition and identify potential issues before purchasing.

Ignoring maintenance history

Overlooking the maintenance history of a used forklift can lead to unpleasant surprises down the line. Inquiring about the forklift’s service history, including regular maintenance, repairs, and any major overhauls, is essential. A well-maintained forklift will have a longer lifespan and pose fewer operational risks. Understanding the maintenance history can help you make an informed decision regarding the reliability and performance of the equipment.

Overlooking safety features

Safety should always be a top priority when purchasing a used forklift. Don’t make the mistake of overlooking safety features such as seat belts, overhead guards, horns, lights, and other crucial elements. Ensure the forklift complies with your region’s relevant safety standards and regulations. Additionally, consider if the forklift has any additional safety features that would enhance the well-being of your operators and protect your workplace.

Neglecting load capacity assessment

Each forklift has a specific load capacity, and it is essential to assess your requirements accurately. Neglecting load capacity assessment can lead to operational inefficiencies, equipment damage, and safety hazards. Determine the maximum weight your forklift needs to handle and ensure it aligns with its lifting capacity. Overloading a forklift can damage the equipment and compromise the safety of your operators.

Skipping test drive and warranty check

Like buying a used car, test-driving a used forklift is crucial to understanding its performance and identifying any operational issues. So take the forklift for a spin to test its manoeuvrability, acceleration, braking, and other essential functionalities. Additionally, inquire about any remaining warranty that may apply to the forklift. A warranty can provide peace of mind and protect you against unexpected repair costs.

Contact Forklift Handling for details

The easiest way to avoid these mistakes is to purchase a used forklift from a reliable partner like Forklift Handling. We specialise in refurbishing forklifts. With years of experience in the industry, we have become a leader in this field, providing our customers with high-quality used forklifts at an affordable price.

When you purchase a used forklift from us, you can be assured it has been thoroughly inspected, serviced, and repaired to meet our high standards. In addition, our technicians are trained to identify any potential issues and address them before the forklift is put up for sale. This means you can trust your used forklift to perform just as well as a new one. Contact a representative from Forklift Handling today to learn more about our used forklifts. We are a reputable and leading provider of various used forklift services and products, including sales, repairs, maintenance, and rental. In addition, our specialist team has decades of experience working with the world’s leading brands, including Toyota, Hyster, Doosan, Mitsubishi, TCM, and Clark.