When confronted with the purchasing cycle, it is a big decision for anyone to choose whether to purchase second-hand or brand new. In terms of purchasing 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 instance, figure out the type of machine that is needed, how many hours per year or per week you will use it and how long you plan to keep it.
Typically, a higher priced forklift will hold its value longer over time. It is good to know that a lower priced brand new forklift may not have the overall capability, value or reliability of a second-hand unit of an expensive kind.
When considering a purchase of a brand new or used lift truck, there are 3 aspects which you must take heed of: seasonality, utilization and duty cycle. If you are thinking of using your lift truck for at least 4 hours a day, it is recommended that you buy a new model, particularly if you would have a high-duty cycle. A high-duty cycle means moving numerous loads per hour that are near or at the capacity truck.
If you only need your lift truck for approximately 4 hours per day or on an intermittent basis, a lower cost brand new unit or used forklift might be optimal. Several of the newer models are available at lower costs that 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 second-hand lift truck or a rental program may best available option and could potentially save you a lot of money.
It is essential to know whether the machine will be in constant use. This would mean knowing the amount of uptime and dependability needed for your certain application.