For anybody determine whether to buy second-hand or brand new lift truck, it is a really big decision when confronted with the purchasing cycle. The best thing to do is to figure out the application requirements for the forklift, when trying to choose between the two options. For example, know the type of machine that is required, how long you intend to keep it and the number of hours per week or per year you will utilize it.
Normally, an expensive forklift will hold its value longer over time. It is good to remember that an inexpensive brand new forklift may not have the overall reliability, capability or value of a second-hand unit of a higher priced model.
When considering a purchase of a brand new or used lift truck, there are 3 aspects which you should take heed of: seasonality, utilization and duty cycle. If you are thinking of using your lift truck for at least 4 hours per day, it is better that you purchase a new unit, particularly if you would have a high-duty cycle. A high-duty cycle means moving many loads per hour that are near or at the capacity truck.
However, if you expect to use your lift truck for less than 4 hours a day or on an intermittent basis, than buying a lower cost brand new unit or a second-hand lift truck may be the right alternative. Some of the newer models are available at lower costs which are made for lower-duty cycles. Furthermore, if you think that you will expect to use the forklift only during particular times of year on a seasonal basis, then a rental program or a used lift truck might best option available and could potentially save you a lot of money.
It is essential to know whether the machinery will be in constant use. This would mean knowing the amount of uptime and dependability needed for your particular application.