When confronted with the purchasing cycle, it is a huge decision for anyone to determine whether to purchase used or brand new. In terms of purchasing a forklift and trying to choose between the two options, the best thing to do is figure out the application needs for the lift truck. For instance, know the kind of machine that is required, how many hours per year or per week you will use it and how long you intend to keep it.
Higher priced forklifts will normally hold its value over time. It is good to remember that an inexpensive brand new lift truck might not have the overall value, reliability and capability of a second-hand unit of a higher priced model.
When considering whether or not to purchase a brand new or second-hand lift truck, there are 3 aspects of usage that you may want to take note 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 purchase a brand new model, particularly if you would have a high-duty cycle. A high-duty cycle means moving lots of loads per hour which are at or near the capacity truck.
Nevertheless, if you expect to utilize your forklift for less than 4 hours a day or on an intermittent basis, than purchasing a lower cost new model or a used lift truck might be the best alternative. Several of the newer models are available at lower costs which are made for lower-duty cycles. Furthermore, if you think that you would expect to use the forklift only during particular times of year on a seasonal basis, then a used lift truck or a rental program might best available alternative and can possibly save you a lot of money.
It is essential to know whether the machine will be always used. This will mean determining the amount of uptime and dependability needed for your particular application.