For anyone determine whether to purchase second-hand or 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 needs for the lift truck, when trying to decide between the two options. For example, know the type of equipment which is needed, how many hours per year or per week you would use it and how long you plan to keep it.
Higher priced forklifts would typically hold its value over time. It is good to remember that a lower priced new forklift might not have the overall dependability, capability or value of a second-hand unit of an expensive kind.
When considering a purchase of a new or used lift truck, there are 3 aspects which you should take heed of: duty cycle, seasonality and utilization. If you are thinking of using your lift truck for at least 4 hours per day, it is recommended that you purchase a new model, especially if you would have a high-duty cycle. A high-duty cycle means moving numerous loads per hour which are at or near the capacity truck.
Nevertheless, if you expect to use your forklift for less than 4 hours per day or on an irregular basis, than buying a lower cost brand new unit or a second-hand lift truck may be the right alternative. Several of the newer units are available at lower costs which are made for lower-duty cycles. What's more, if you think that you would expect to utilize the forklift only during particular times of year on a seasonal basis, then a rental program or a used lift truck may best choice available and can potentially save you a lot of money.
It is vital to know whether the machinery will be always used. This will mean determining the amount of uptime and dependability required for your particular application.