A Complete Guide to Purchasing a Reliable Used Forklift
Buying a used forklift can be a cost-effective way to expand your material handling capabilities without the significant investment required for a new machine. For warehouses, logistics companies, manufacturers, construction firms, and distribution centres, a quality used forklift can provide years of reliable service at a fraction of the cost of a new unit.
However, not all used forklifts are created equal. Purchasing the wrong machine can lead to costly repairs, downtime, and safety concerns. Knowing what to inspect before making a purchase can help you avoid expensive mistakes and ensure you get the best value for your investment.
In this guide, we’ll cover the most important factors to consider when buying a used forklift.
Why Buy a Used Forklift?
Many businesses choose used forklifts because they offer several advantages:
- Lower purchase price
- Faster return on investment
- Reduced depreciation
- Immediate availability
- Access to premium brands at lower costs
While the savings can be substantial, proper inspection is essential to ensure you’re purchasing a reliable machine.
1. Check the Forklift’s Operating Hours
Just as mileage is important when buying a vehicle, operating hours are one of the most important indicators of a forklift’s condition.
Most forklifts are equipped with an hour meter that records usage.
As a general guideline:
- Under 5,000 hours: Low usage
- 5,000 – 10,000 hours: Moderate usage
- 10,000 – 15,000 hours: High usage
- Over 15,000 hours: Requires careful inspection
A forklift with high operating hours isn’t necessarily a bad purchase if it has been properly maintained, but it may require more frequent repairs and servicing.
2. Review Service and Maintenance Records
A well-maintained forklift can often outperform a neglected machine with fewer hours.
Request maintenance records and look for evidence of:
- Scheduled servicing
- Oil changes
- Hydraulic maintenance
- Brake servicing
- Tyre replacements
- Battery maintenance
- Major repairs
Comprehensive service records demonstrate that the equipment has been properly cared for and can provide insight into future maintenance requirements.
3. Inspect the Mast and Forks
The mast and forks are among the most heavily used components of any forklift.
Check for:
- Mast Wear
- Excessive side-to-side movement
- Cracked welds
- Bent components
- Unusual noises during lifting
- Fork Wear
- Bent forks
- Uneven fork height
- Cracks or repairs
- Excessive thinning at the heel of the fork
Damaged lifting components can compromise safety and may be expensive to replace.
4. Examine the Hydraulic System
The hydraulic system powers lifting, tilting, and other critical forklift functions.
Inspect for:
- Hydraulic fluid leaks
- Damaged hoses
- Slow lifting performance
- Jerky movements
- Unusual sounds during operation
Hydraulic repairs can be costly, making this one of the most important areas to evaluate.
5. Assess the Condition of the Tyres
Forklift tyres significantly affect safety, stability, and operating efficiency.
Check for:
- Uneven wear
- Chunking or cracking
- Flat spots
- Low tread depth
- Signs of impact damage
Replacing forklift tyres can represent a significant expense, so their condition should be factored into your purchasing decision.
6. Evaluate the Engine or Battery
Diesel and LPG Forklifts
Inspect:
- Engine startup performance
- Smoke emissions
- Oil leaks
- Cooling system condition
- Engine noise
Excessive smoke, hard starting, or unusual noises may indicate costly engine problems.
Electric Forklifts
Battery replacement is one of the largest expenses associated with electric forklifts.
Check:
- Battery age
- Charging performance
- Corrosion on terminals
- Battery maintenance history
- Overall runtime between charges
A battery nearing the end of its life can significantly increase the total cost of ownership.
7. Test All Safety Features
Safety should never be overlooked when purchasing used equipment.
Ensure the forklift’s safety systems are functioning correctly, including:
- Brakes
- Seat belts
- Warning lights
- Reverse alarm
- Horn
- Lights
- Overhead guard
- Parking brake
Faulty safety systems can create compliance issues and increase the risk of workplace accidents.
8. Look for Signs of Structural Damage
Carefully inspect the forklift frame for:
- Cracks
- Rust
- Poor-quality repairs
- Bent chassis components
- Weld repairs
Structural damage may indicate previous accidents or overloading and could affect the forklift’s long-term reliability.
9. Verify the Load Capacity Plate
Every forklift should have a clearly visible data plate showing:
- Load capacity
- Lift height
- Serial number
- Model information
Never purchase a forklift without verifying that the capacity plate matches the machine and remains legible.
This information is critical for safe operation and regulatory compliance.
10. Buy From a Reputable Supplier
One of the best ways to reduce risk is to purchase from a trusted forklift supplier rather than an unknown private seller.
A reputable supplier can often provide:
- Equipment inspections
- Service history
- Warranty options
- Spare parts support
- Maintenance packages
- Technical advice
Choosing an established supplier provides peace of mind and ongoing support after the sale.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Businesses purchasing used forklifts often make the following mistakes:
- Focusing only on price
- Ignoring maintenance history
- Failing to inspect the battery or engine
- Overlooking tyre condition
- Buying a forklift with insufficient capacity
- Skipping a professional inspection
A low purchase price can quickly become expensive if significant repairs are required shortly after purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hours is too many for a used forklift?
There is no fixed limit, but forklifts with more than 15,000 hours should be carefully inspected and supported by strong maintenance records.
Is buying a used forklift worth it?
Yes. A well-maintained used forklift can offer excellent value and years of reliable service while significantly reducing upfront costs.
Should I get a professional inspection?
Absolutely. A professional forklift inspection can identify issues that may not be obvious during a visual assessment and could save you thousands in repair costs.
What is the most important thing to check?
Maintenance history, operating hours, hydraulic condition, mast wear, and the engine or battery condition are among the most critical factors to evaluate.
Conclusion
Buying a used forklift can be a smart investment when approached correctly. By carefully inspecting the machine, reviewing maintenance records, and purchasing from a reputable supplier, businesses can secure reliable equipment while keeping costs under control.
Before making your final decision, take the time to thoroughly evaluate the forklift’s condition, performance, and service history. A little extra due diligence today can prevent costly repairs and downtime tomorrow.
If you’re looking for a quality used forklift, consult a trusted forklift handling specialist who can help you find the right machine for your operational requirements and budget.
Contact us for your Forklift Requirements Today!