Buying used forklifts can be a smart investment—especially for growing operations looking to save money without sacrificing performance. But making the right purchase takes more than browsing an online listing and clicking “buy.” It requires planning, inspection, and a thoughtful approach that balances your operational needs with long-term equipment value.
Whether you’re purchasing a single lift or refreshing your entire fleet, here’s how to ensure you’re making the right move.
Used Forklift Purchase: Start With a Clear Picture of Your Needs
Before you even begin searching for equipment, it’s important to evaluate your internal operations. Take inventory of the machines you already have and review their condition, age, and performance. Are there forklifts that are approaching the end of their usable life? Are any leases expiring soon? This is a good time to review maintenance records and consider selling off outdated or under-performing machines.
Gathering input from warehouse and operations managers can also shed light on where gaps exist. They know firsthand what’s working—and what isn’t. Use this feedback to develop a list of specific machinery you’ll need to meet your current demands and support future growth.
Used Forklift Buying Tips: Know What to Look For
Once you’ve got a handle on what your team needs, begin outlining the specifications that make sense for your operation. Think through load capacity, maximum lift height, fuel type (electric, propane, or diesel), and the type of tires needed based on whether your forklifts will be operating indoors or outdoors.
You should also think about how frequently the forklifts will be used. For high-use environments, investing in machines with lower hours—even if they’re slightly more expensive—can be worthwhile in the long run.
How to Inspect a Used Forklift Before Purchase
No matter how reputable the dealer, always do your due diligence before committing to a purchase. Carefully inspect each machine’s forks, mast, tires, hydraulic system, and battery or engine. Look for signs of wear, leaks, or mechanical issues that could affect performance. If possible, test drive the equipment to get a feel for how it operates.
Reliable dealers should be able to provide detailed maintenance records and confirm that any necessary repairs or replacements have already been completed. This paperwork is just as important as the machine itself—it gives you insight into how well the forklift has been cared for and whether it’s likely to perform as expected.
Choosing the Right Used Forklift Dealer
Finding the right forklift is just one piece of the puzzle. You also need the right partner. Choose a dealer who specializes in used material handling equipment and has a solid reputation for quality and service. The best dealers will review your needs assessment, help you source machines that aren’t in stock, and offer purchasing or leasing options that suit your budget and timeline.
There’s also value in bundling your purchase. Buying multiple units from one trusted dealer often leads to better pricing, more consistent service agreements, and simplified support in the future.
Maintaining Your Used Forklift After Purchase
Buying the right used forklifts is only the beginning. Once they arrive on-site, it’s up to your operations team to maintain them properly. Create and document a plan that includes scheduled maintenance, inspection intervals, and operator training. Assign responsibility and hold teams accountable for following manufacturer-recommended service timelines.
By implementing a structured maintenance plan, you not only extend the life of your equipment but also protect your business from unplanned downtime and costly repairs.
Buy With Confidence: Find the Right Used Forklift at The Forklift Pro
Buying used forklifts can deliver incredible value to your operation—if you approach the purchase process thoughtfully. From evaluating your needs and finding the right partner to inspecting equipment and planning for ongoing care, every step counts. When you take the time to do it right, your investment in used forklifts will pay off in performance, reliability, and long-term savings.
Ready to start your search? Explore our current inventory and learn more about how we can help you find the right equipment for your business.