When confronted with the purchasing cycle, it is a huge decision for anyone to choose whether to purchase second-hand or new. In terms of buying a forklift and trying to choose between the two options, the best thing to do is know the application requirements for the lift truck. Like for example, figure out the kind of machinery that is required, how long you intend to keep it and how many hours per year or per week you will utilize it.
Normally, an expensive forklift will hold its value longer over time. It is good to remember that an inexpensive new forklift might not have the overall reliability, capability or value of a used unit of a higher priced model.
When considering whether or not to buy a new or second-hand lift truck, there are 3 aspects of usage which you may want to take note of: utilization, duty cycle and seasonality. If you are thinking of utilizing your lift truck for 4 or more hours per day, it is recommended that you purchase a new unit, specially if you will have a high-duty cycle. A high-duty cycle means moving lots of loads per hour that are at or near the capacity truck.
Nevertheless, if you expect to use your lift truck for less than 4 hours a day or on an intermittent basis, than purchasing an inexpensive new model or a used lift truck might be the right option. Several of the newer units are available at lower costs which are manufactured for lower-duty cycles. Also, if you think that you will expect to use the forklift just during particular times of year on a seasonal basis, then a rental program or a used lift truck may best available alternative and can potentially save you lots of money.
It is essential to anticipate if the forklift is going to be always used or not. This would mean determining the amount of uptime and dependability required for your certain application.