When confronted with the purchasing cycle, it is a big decision for anyone to choose whether to purchase second-hand or brand new. In terms of buying a lift truck and trying to decide between the two options, the best thing to do is know the application requirements for the lift truck. For example, know the kind of machine which is needed, the number of hours per week or per year you will use it and how long you plan to keep it.
Expensive forklifts will normally hold its value over time. It is good to know that a lower priced brand new forklift may not have the overall value, dependability and capability of a used unit of an expensive type.
When considering a purchase of a brand new or used lift truck, there are 3 aspects that you should take heed of: seasonality, utilization and duty cycle. If you are thinking of using your lift truck for 4 or more hours per day, it is better that you buy a new unit, particularly if you would have a high-duty cycle. A high-duty cycle means moving a lot of loads per hour which are at or near the capacity truck.
If you just need your lift truck for about 4 hours a day or on an irregular basis, an inexpensive new unit or used forklift may be optimal. Several of the newer units are available at lower costs which are manufactured for lower-duty cycles. As well, if you think that you will expect to utilize the forklift just during particular times of year on a seasonal basis, then a second-hand lift truck or a rental program might best available option and can potentially save you a lot of money.
It is vital to know whether the machinery will be always used. This will mean knowing the amount of uptime and dependability needed for your particular application.