Your Guide to Finding the Right Used Forklift for Your Business
For first-time buyers, finding the right forklift can feel overwhelming. If you’re asking, “Where is the best place to buy a forklift?” The Forklift Pro is here to guide you. We’ll walk you through the process, helping you determine the right type of used forklift to meet your business needs.
How to Buy a Used Forklift
Before diving into the search, it’s essential to identify the right type of forklift for your operations. With various options available, understanding the types, engine choices, and tire options will ensure you make the best investment. Here’s a breakdown:
Types of Used Forklifts
While forklifts come in many shapes and sizes, the four most common types are:
- Counterbalance Forklifts
Counterbalance forklifts are highly versatile and suitable for indoor and outdoor use. With two front forks and a counterweight in the back, these forklifts can drive up close to loads, lift them, and move with stability. - Reach Trucks
Perfect for indoor warehouses, reach trucks are designed to lift loads from high shelves and operate in narrow aisles. They’re an ideal choice for space-constrained environments that require vertical reach. - Pallet Trucks and Pallet Jacks
Designed specifically for moving pallets, these trucks lift and transport loads with ease. Pallet trucks are essential for operations where pallets need frequent handling, using a pump handle to raise and lower loads. - Order Picker Forklifts
Order pickers are electric lift trucks designed for filling individual orders rather than moving entire pallets. These forklifts are essential for warehouses and distribution centers that require case-by-case picking at various heights.
Beyond the type of forklift, consider whether an electric or internal combustion engine better fits your needs. Electric forklifts are cost-effective and emission-free, making them ideal for indoor use. In contrast, internal combustion models are often preferred for heavy-duty, outdoor tasks.
Tires: Cushion or Pneumatic?
Another factor to consider is tire type. Cushion tires work best on smooth, indoor surfaces, while pneumatic tires are designed for rough outdoor terrain. Selecting the right tires for your forklift ensures optimal safety and performance.
Choosing the Best Used Forklift for Your Business
With a basic understanding of forklift types and features, create a list of requirements for your business. Answering these questions will guide you toward the best option:
- How many hours will the forklift be used daily?
- What is the maximum height the forklift needs to reach?
- Will it primarily be used indoors or outdoors?
- Does it need to maneuver safely in narrow warehouse aisles?
- Which tire type is best for your work environment?
Benefits of Buying a Used Forklift
Though you may be first tempted to buy a new forklift, it’s important to know the benefits of buying a used forklift. Used forklifts are less expensive and often more reliable than new forklifts. The cost of one new forklift is comparable to the cost of two used forklifts.
Used forklifts have already been tested in real-world conditions, meaning most early issues have been addressed. Many used forklifts are on the market due to lease terminations rather than functional problems, offering a reliable, budget-friendly solution.
Tips for Shopping for a Reliable Used Forklift
Once you’ve identified your specific needs, it’s time to shop. Here’s what to look for in a dependable used forklift:
- Check the Hours of Use: Unlike cars, forklifts are measured by hours rather than years. A typical forklift has a lifespan of 10,000 to 15,000 hours, so consider the machine’s hours to gauge its remaining service life.
- Avoid Discontinued Models: Parts for discontinued models may be harder to find, driving up maintenance costs. If you’re considering one, research parts availability and potential repair expenses.
- Inspect the Tires: Tire condition reveals a lot about the environment and usage of a forklift. Worn tires can indicate heavy usage or poor maintenance.
Find the Best Used Forklift Trucks at The Forklift Pro
When shopping for the best place to buy a forklift, especially a used forklift, be sure to ask experts for help to ensure you get the best unit at the best price. With a large inventory and a sales staff with over 200 years of combined experience, The Forklift Pro is the best place to buy a used forklift.
From the front of the truck to the back, every forklift in our inventory is thoroughly inspected by our qualified technicians. All forklifts are put through a rigorous examination, including tires, filters, meters, fluids, lift chain links, and grease fittings. You can be sure that any used forklift you see in our inventory will be dependable.
Contact The Forklift Pro today to get started with your forklift purchase and experience the difference that quality and expertise make.