If you’re running a business that relies on forklifts, you’ve probably debated whether to buy new or used. It’s a significant decision because forklifts aren’t cheap, and they’re essential to your operations. Many people lean towards brand-new machines, thinking it’s the best way to go. But buying a used forklift can actually be a smart move—both for your wallet and for your business. Let’s talk about why used forklifts could be the right choice for you.
1. Cost Savings
Let’s just start with the most obvious reason: buying used forklifts is significantly cheaper than going for a brand-new one. It’s not a little cheaper—it’s a lot. A brand-new forklift can easily run you tens of thousands of dollars, while a used one, depending on its condition and specs, might be available for half that price or less.
This isn’t just a one-time savings either. When you spend less upfront on equipment, that leaves more room in your budget for other things your business might need, like training, maintenance, or even another forklift. For a lot of small to medium businesses, this cost-cutting can make a real difference in the bottom line.
2. Immediate Availability
New forklifts can take a long time to be delivered. Depending on the model, supplier, and shipping delays, you might be waiting weeks or even months to get your hands on that shiny new machine. With used forklifts, you can find ones that are available almost immediately. The process is a lot faster because the machines are already in the dealer’s inventory.
If you need a forklift yesterday (and let’s be honest, who doesn’t sometimes?), then used forklifts are the way to go. Instead of waiting for a custom order or backlogged shipments, you can get your equipment and start using it right away.
3. Depreciation is Slower
Here’s a fact that applies to forklifts just like it does to cars: the minute you buy new equipment, it starts losing value. Depreciation hits hard in the first few years, with some estimates suggesting that new forklifts lose 20% or more of their value almost immediately after purchase.
With a used forklift, that depreciation has already happened. The bulk of the loss in value occurred with the previous owner. So, if you buy used, you’re not going to lose as much value on the equipment in a short time, which can be great if you ever need to sell it down the road.
4. Proven Performance
When buying a used forklift, you can actually see how it’s performed over time. Unlike a new model where you’re taking a leap of faith that it’ll be as reliable as promised, a used forklift has a track record. It’s been in use, and you can check maintenance records, hours of operation, and overall wear to assess how it’s been holding up.
Most reputable dealers will offer you a detailed history of the used equipment, so you’re not buying blindly. You can make an informed decision based on real-world use, not just spec sheets and promises from the manufacturer.
5. Lower Insurance Costs
The cost to insure equipment can be a surprisingly big part of your operational expenses. Since used forklifts are valued lower than new ones, insurance companies tend to charge less for coverage. This can save you hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars over the years, especially if you’re managing a fleet.
Lower premiums might not be the flashiest benefit, but for any business, cutting down on fixed costs is always a win.
6. Tried and Tested Technology
A lot of businesses assume that newer forklifts have better technology, which is true to an extent. But the basic function of a forklift hasn’t changed much over the years. Sure, some bells and whistles have been added, but if you’re just looking for a reliable workhorse to get pallets moved, you don’t necessarily need the latest tech.
Used forklifts often come from recent years when technology is still highly functional and effective. In many cases, these older models can actually be simpler to repair and maintain because they don’t have all the extra sensors and software that newer models might require specialized technicians for.
7. Lower Maintenance Costs
Speaking of maintenance, used forklifts often come with lower overall maintenance costs. This is because they’ve typically already gone through their break-in period. New forklifts sometimes have teething issues—small problems that pop up as the machine gets used for the first time in real-world conditions. With a used forklift, those initial fixes have usually already been dealt with.
Also, since many used forklifts have been on the market longer, it’s easier to find affordable replacement parts. Newer models may require proprietary parts that can be expensive and harder to source.
8. Customization Without the High Price Tag
Forklifts often need to be customized for specific tasks or industries. Whether it’s adding special attachments or modifying the forks for certain load sizes, it can get pricey. When you’re buying used, though, there’s a good chance that some of the customization work has already been done by the previous owner.
Even if it hasn’t, since you saved money upfront, you’ve got more wiggle room in your budget to invest in whatever modifications you need. That way, you end up with a machine tailored to your operation without blowing through your capital.
9. More Flexibility in Your Fleet
Used forklifts offer you more flexibility in expanding or upgrading your fleet. Since they’re cheaper and more readily available, you can acquire additional forklifts without breaking the bank. This is especially helpful if your business is growing or if you experience seasonal spikes in demand. Instead of waiting on a new order, you can add a few used models to handle the extra load.
Even if you only need a forklift for a short period, buying used can be more cost-effective than renting, and you’ll have the option to sell the equipment when you’re done with it.
10. Availability of Certified Used Forklifts
Some people hesitate to buy used forklifts because they’re worried about the condition of the equipment. However, many dealers now offer certified used forklifts. These machines have been inspected, repaired, and refurbished to meet a high standard of performance. Certified used forklifts often come with warranties that provide peace of mind similar to what you’d get from a new model—but at a much lower price point.
When you buy certified, you know you’re getting equipment that’s been vetted by professionals, and any potential issues have been fixed before they hit your floor.
11. Environmental Benefits
Finally, buying used forklifts can have environmental benefits. Manufacturing new equipment consumes energy and resources while buying used equipment extends the lifecycle of an existing machine. By opting for a used forklift, you’re reducing waste and lessening the demand for new production. In a world where sustainability is becoming more and more important to businesses and consumers alike, this is a small but meaningful way to reduce your carbon footprint.
Buying used forklifts isn’t just about saving money—though that’s certainly one of the biggest perks. It’s about getting equipment that’s proven, reliable, and immediately available, all while keeping your operating costs lower over time. Whether you’re looking to expand your fleet, replace an aging model, or simply save on initial capital investment, used forklifts offer real value without the downside of buying brand-new. It’s not the flashy choice, but it’s often the smarter one.