For anybody determine whether to buy second-hand or brand new lift truck, it is a very big decision when confronted with the purchasing cycle. The best thing to do is to figure out the application needs for the lift truck, when trying to decide between the two options. For instance, know the kind of equipment that is required, how long you plan to keep it and the number of hours per week or per year you will use it.
Higher priced forklifts will normally hold its value over time. It is good to know that an inexpensive brand new lift truck may not have the overall reliability, ability or value of a second-hand unit of a higher priced type.
When considering a purchase of a 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 purchase a new model, especially if you would have a high-duty cycle. A high-duty cycle means moving numerous loads per hour that are near or at the capacity truck.
Nevertheless, if you expect to utilize your lift truck for less than 4 hours a day or on an irregular basis, than purchasing an inexpensive new unit or a second-hand lift truck may be the right option. Some of the newer units are available at lower costs which are made for lower-duty cycles. What's more, if you think that you would expect to use the forklift just during particular times of year on a seasonal basis, then a used lift truck or a rental program might best choice available and can possibly save you lots of money.
It is essential to know whether the equipment will be in constant use. This will mean determining the amount of uptime and dependability required for your particular application.