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. 

2. 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. 

3. 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.  

4. 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.