Forklifts are tough machines and there are many reliable, previously owned models for sale. Companies buy used forklifts to save money on equipment costs and although this is a smart business strategy, particularly if the forklift will see light duty, the buyer should be careful.

Fewer Consumer Protections

When you buy used forklifts, it's not like buying a used car. Many laws that govern car sales don't protect you when you see a used forklift for sale. Nor do forklift buyers have the same resources available to car buyers.

You can't check a service like CARFAX for the vehicle history before you buy used forklifts. The buyer depends on maintenance records and the seller's word. The vehicle could have been repaired after an accident and the buyer might never know.

Buyers and sellers find it difficult to set a fair price. Without a database of sale prices like Edmunds or Kelley Blue Book, you can apply standard depreciation formulas. However that may not accurately reflect the value of the equipment.

What to Look For When You Buy Used Forklifts

Examine a used forklift's maintenance history. A well-maintained machine will last for many, many years while a neglected one is subject to frequent breakdowns. Ensure that all routine maintenance has been performed back to the original purchase date. If the current owner hasn't kept maintenance records, that's a red flag but not necessarily an indication of a bad truck.

You should always conduct a hand-on inspection and test drive before you buy used forklifts. Even if the machine has a meticulous maintenance history, the owner might be selling the machine due to mechanical problems. A qualified forklift mechanic should conduct the inspection.

If you are buying online from a distant buyer, you might not be able to inspect the machine yourself. Contact a mechanic in the area and ask him to do the inspection for you.

Buy Online Through Websites

Although there 'swap meet' type sites where buy used forklifts, buyers would do best using a site dedicated to buying and selling forklifts or other industrial machinery. It's harder for dishonest sellers to do business on specialized sites operated by industry experts.

Sites that specialize in selling forklifts offer more listings than a general ad site will. You don't have to sift through irrelevant products to find the forklift sales. Listings can be filtered by brand, capacity, price range and more so you can find exactly the machine you need for your business.

Furthermore, used forklift websites often partner with lenders. Some buyers already have an established relationship with a lender, but many don't. Doing business with a lender who is already familiar with the website will allow the process to move more quickly.