Triwest Forklifts

4 Things to Look for When Buying a Used Forklift

4 things to look for when buying a used forklift

4 Things to Look for When Buying a Used Forklift

 

Buying a used forklift is a great idea if you’re looking to save money. However it can also make for a tough decision. To make things a bit easier, Triwest has put together a checklist for buyers to follow so they can get the best deal possible. Keep reading and you’ll know exactly what to look for when hunting for a second hand forklift. 

  1. Conduct a visual inspection

One of the first things to tick off your list should be a thorough visual inspection. This will help you to pick up on any major issues quickly, before you even think about investing in a second hand model. Keep an eye out for overall condition and look for excessive rust and general damage. Remember, some wear and tear is to be expected, but anything that compromises operational capacity or safety is a bad sign. 

Tip: you might not be able to conduct a visual inspection in person. If this is the case, make sure to view all of the provided photos and videos carefully. 

  1. Go for a test drive

It goes without saying that you should take the forklift for a spin. The reason being that your eyes can only tell you so much. By getting behind the wheel you can tell for yourself how things will operate when you get back to the jobsite. Pay particular attention to how well the forklift accelerates, turns and brakes. Why? Because if a unit doesn’t tick these boxes, then you’re in for a rough road. 

  1. Check the warranty

Want peace of mind with your investment? Check the warranty. Doing so will protect you from making a bad decision, and it could save you a lot of stress too. Make sure you understand exactly what is covered and for how long this cover lasts.  

  1. Inspect the hour meter and rating

Just like you would with a car, checking the forklift hour meter will give you an idea of its overall condition. This will tell you the number or hours the forklift has been operating for. While not the be-all-and-end-all, the number listed should provide a pretty good indication of how things will operate. 

The last thing that buyers should do is inspect the rating plate to determine how much the forklift is capable of lifting safely. Make sure the rating plate is correctly labeled, easy to read and fitted securely. Keep in mind that you’ll want to choose a forklift with a slightly higher max lift strength than what you expect to be lifting back on site. 

Second hand forklift trucks for sale

Want to get the best value for your money? Triwest has a range of affordably priced second hand forklift trucks available for sale. We only supply high-performing materials handling equipment to ensure that our customers get the best results. With over 40 years of experience, we can meet all of your operational needs with ease. Feel free to get in touch today for expert product advice and support. 

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Read our 8 reviews
Triwest Forklifts
Triwest Forklifts
8 Google reviews
Sascha Humphreys
Sascha Humphreys
2022-12-05
Great service from a great team 😉
meng lin
meng lin
2022-08-19
Literally the WORST company I have ever come across. Unreliable, unprofessional and bail out last minute after provide them with driver's license and credit card details. They give false commitment in the morning and decided to cancel by noon just because the customer asked them a reasonable question about pick up time. And the worst? Hang-up on customer in the middle of a conversation. For anyone that's looking for a reliable company for forklift rental service, stay away from this company.
Jake Magro
Jake Magro
2021-07-06
The forklift experts! The team over at Triwest Forklifts have proven time and time again that they provide exceptional services at great prices. In all my dealings with this company they show unmatched knowledge of a wide range of machinery, which is clear when receiving any sales, hire or servicing advice. My go-to for all my forklift solutions. Highly recommend these guys! 👍🏼👍🏼
megahawk
megahawk
2021-07-06
Great service. Called at 7.30 am. 9am serviceman was here.. 1pm brendan had the forklift back up and running. Friendly service. Very happy.
Wayne Spiteri
Wayne Spiteri
2021-07-06
You will be hard pressed to find companies that are as knowledgeable and as professional as these guys. Heaps of experience on so many types of machines...they are my first place to call.
Wayne Spiteri
Wayne Spiteri
2020-02-13
Great product knowledge, Friendly and reliable. Highly recommend. Thanks Paul and Brendan
Peter Jones
Peter Jones
2017-03-27
Triwest Forklifts have supplied and maintained our business forklifts for many years, we recently had an urgent need for a hire forklift; as per usual the team provided a solution for us within hours. Our own warehouse team - which is at the very core of our business - were able to continue with normal operation virtually uninterrupted. Fantastic Service!
Eric Lee
Eric Lee
2017-03-07
Great service and awesome pricing! Thanks for the help!