Purchasing a used forklift can be an incredibly cost-effective way for businesses to meet their materials handling demands. However, it’s important to keep in mind that buying anything that’s been previously used can have its own risks, and the same still applies to forklifts.  

So, we’ve put together a quick and easy checklist to help you when purchasing a used forklift truck. 

Ensure it’s suitable for your application

You need to consider how often you’ll need to use the forklift. If you’ll be using it indoors, outdoors, or both. Think about the tasks you’ll need it for, how heavy the loads will be, and if there are any hazards in the working environment. 

The type of truck you choose will also need to be able to manoeuvre properly in the workplace, and reach the highest shelves. The mast might also need to be low enough to fit beneath the lowest doors and ceilings. Going through a reputable dealer, who will be able to inspect your site and application to ensure that the truck is appropriate to your needs, is a good idea. 

Do a visual inspection

If you’re buying online it can be tricky to just rely on the images and description listed by the seller. This is why arranging for a visual inspection can be really beneficial. As you can properly check for signs of rust and damage. You can also check for fluid leaks, cracks and any other indications of underlying faults. If you happen to be buying an electric forklift, make sure there’s life left in the battery. 

Take it for a test drive

Keep in mind that you’re purchasing a potentially dangerous and quite complex piece of machinery. So, it makes sense to probably test it first, to see if everything works. If you’re not qualified to do so, then get an operator to test drive it instead. 

Ensure you conduct the test drive on a clean surface, and check that all functions work as they should. Look out for small drips, which could indicate potentially costly leaks from the hydraulics or transmission. And make sure that the engine can properly start from cold, as certain issues aren’t always apparent with an engine that’s already warm. 

Inspect the warranty and Certificate of Thorough Examination

The warranty is hugely important, and it’s essential that you know how long your warranty period lasts, as well as what it does and doesn’t cover. A Certificate of Thorough Examination will indicate that the vehicle complies with LOLER and PUWER regulations. However, you still shouldn’t solely rely on this when assessing a fork lift’s condition. 

Look at the clock readings 

Don’t forget to check the truck’s clock readings, as you need to assess it’s working life through operating hours, as opposed to mileage. Experts say that one hour of use is equivalent to driving a car 30 miles. So if a truck has clocked up 3000 hours, this would be the equivalent of a car having travelled 100,000 miles.

Check the rating plate

One of the most important features of any lift truck, is the rating plate, as this will let you know how much the truck can safely lift. Make sure that the data on the plate is fitted, legible and correct when making your purchase. And of course double check that the rated capacity is slightly higher than the maximum load you expect to carry.

At H&F Lift Trucks, we’ve got all the new or used forklift models you could ask for.

Please, contact us today on 0800 298 8790 for more information.