When confronted with the purchasing cycle, it is a big decision for anybody to choose whether to buy used or new. When it comes to buying a lift truck and trying to choose between the two options, the best thing to do is know the application requirements for the lift truck. For example, figure out the kind of machine that is required, how long you plan to keep it and the number of hours per week or per year you would utilize it.
Typically, a higher priced forklift would hold its value longer over time. It is good to know that an inexpensive brand new forklift may not have the overall ability, value or reliability of a used unit of a higher priced kind.
When considering a purchase of a new or second-hand lift truck, there are 3 aspects which you should take heed of: utilization, duty cycle and seasonality. If you are thinking of using your lift truck for 4 or more hours a day, it is recommended that you buy a brand new model, especially if you would have a high-duty cycle. A high-duty cycle means moving numerous loads per hour that are at or near the capacity truck.
If you just need your lift truck for roughly 4 hours per day or on an irregular basis, a lower cost new unit or second-hand lift truck might be optimal. Some of the newer units are available at lower costs which are manufactured for lower-duty cycles. In addition, if you think that you would expect to use the forklift just during particular times of year on a seasonal basis, then a rental program or a used lift truck might best available alternative and can possibly save you a lot of money.
It is essential to know whether the equipment will be always used. This will mean knowing the amount of uptime and dependability required for your particular application.