What To Look For When Buying a Used Forklift

Used forklifts are a great choice for growing your fleet whilst saving money. They offer a more affordable option to new forklifts, and in many cases, the same reliable performance. That said, knowing what to look for before you buy is essential.

From online research to in-person inspections, there are checks you can carry out to ensure any used machine will perform and last. Reliability is everything when it comes to forklifts, as the last thing you want is a machine that lets you down. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to make sure you’re buying a forklift that you can rely on.

Whether you’re browsing online or ready to book a site inspection, the following checks will help you buy with confidence.

Before viewing

1 – Specification vs your requirements

Before considering anything else, determine what you require from a machine and whether it has the specification you require. The machine should ideally have the exact specs you require – not too much or too little.

If too little, you’ll run into the obvious problems – you need to purchase a machine that can handle what you need. But if you’re purchasing something with more specification or capacity it’s never a problem because your business can grow into it. .

To decide if the machine is right, ask yourself:

• Is the capacity enough?
• Can it lift high enough?
• Will it still meet my needs in the near future?
• Does it fit with how I plan to use it day-to-day?
• Are there any closed height issues on my site?
• Are there any obvious limitations that could cause me future issues?

2 – Condition 

The overall condition of the machine should always be considered. This can be used to help you get a good idea of how reliable the machine is likely to be, and how well it has been maintained during its previous life, which is essential.  

What is the dealer supplying the forklift with? Its general condition and operating hours are always to be taken seriously, but what is the dealer supplying the equipment with, does it come with a warranty, does the forklift need painting, are the tyres on the J – Line? Does it come with a CFTS Thorough Examination Certificate, which covers both LOLER & PUWER on the forklift? It’s always best to spend a bit more money at the beginning.

Always look at the items below when visiting the premises:

• Overall Condition, Tyres, Engine Bay, Carriage.
• Operating Hours.
• LOLER & PUWER certificate, how long is it valid for. 

Older used forklifts can still be a great option, but before you arrange the visit, consider the above things first to make sure they’re covered in the proposal and purchase price. 

3 – Dealer reputation

Researching the dealer you’re buying from can tell you a lot about the machine you’re considering buying. A good place to start is how long they have been in business, also checking the UKMHA site to ensure that they’re not only registered there, but that they  have been audited and have passed. Secondly, are they registered with the CFTS? If not, then they will not be providing the forklift with a LOLER & PUWER Certificate.

Any additional Accredited Certifications, for example, Multy Lift Forktrucks have ISO 9001, which is Quality Management, ISO 14001 which is Environmental and also  ISO 45001 which H& S, these are all very important. Accreditations that show the company takes itself very seriously and you can rest assured that they are working to the highest and safest standards at all times.

As for general good practice a dealer can always show you that machines have been thoroughly inspected and refurbished before being put up for sale. At Multy Lift, for example, all used forklifts are fully serviced and come with a Thorough Examination Certificate which is to LOLER & PUWER (where applicable). Dealers that offer warranties is always a good sign, as it shows confidence in what they’re selling you. 

It’s always good to visit their premises and meet the people you are buying from, not all forklift companies work to the same high standards as Multy Lift do. Never buy a forklift as seen, particularly from poorly rated dealers. If you do, you’re signing yourself up for trouble, which will sooner or later, likely come at a huge cost.

Before committing, ask yourself:

• Do they have professional premises, with fully functional workshops?
• Are they registered with the UKMHA?
• Are they registered with the CFTS
• Do they have any additional Accreditations or Certifications? 
• Do they have clean and safe workshops?
• Do they inspect and refurbish used machines before selling?
• Do they provide any warranty on used forklifts?
• Are they transparent about the machine’s history and condition?

During viewing

1 – Condition 

First things first, carry out a thorough visual inspection of the machine. Key areas to check include:

• Overall Chassis & Overhead Guard for any damage.
• Are the tyres worn or close to the J-Line? 
• Is the Engine Bay clean with no leaks?
• Check the Mast for any leaks.
• Are the Forks straight?

If buying from a dealer that advertises machines as refurbished, these areas should all be in good condition as standard – if they’re not, it needs to be reflected in the price. Overall, you’re looking for any signs of leaks, damage, or excessive wear, as left unaddressed these will only worsen over time and lead to expensive repairs down the line.

It’s important you understand exactly what you’re buying and that the overall condition reflects what was advertised.

2 – Functionality

Once you’re satisfied with the overall condition, the next step is making sure everything works as it should. You want to ensure the machine drives smoothly, lifts as expected, and isn’t making any unusual noises.

Where possible, always test drive the forklift and pay attention to stability, lifting speed, and that the steering is positive & responsive.

When assessing functionality, check the following:

• Can it lift to the height and capacity required for your application?
• Does it drive and lift smoothly, without any unusual sounds or hesitation?

3 – Safety Features

Safety checks are essential, although according to your buying from a reputable dealer, it shouldn’t be of concern. To stay on the safe side, check the machine has all working factory safety features, including:

• Horn and lights
• Reverse alarm
• Safety Beacon
• Seatbelt 

Newer models may also come equipped with additional safety features such as speed limiters, proximity lights, and operator presence systems – all of which should be checked and working.

Should I buy a used forklift?

It’s well worth looking at buying used forklifts, but it’s important to take the time to research the machines and who you’re buying it from. Not rushing into a decision is essential to making the right one, ensuring you get your hands on a machine that meets your needs with the least chance of problems.

With older machines that have undergone heavy past usage, it’s important to consider their long-term reliability and cost. Upfront costs should always be considered, but it should never be the sole driver behind your decision to purchase.

For ultimate peace of mind, and if you’ve got the budget, it may be worth considering buying new, however used forklifts can be a sensible great value option. As long as you do your checks, you can always get your hands on a great machine at a great price from Multy Lift Forktrucks..

–

Multy Lift is one of the UK’s leading independent forklift dealers and the Midlands’ official CESAB dealer. We sell and hire out forklifts across the whole of the UK, also servicing and maintaining all makes and models of material handling equipment, especially forklift trucks.

Having been trading for over 40 years, you can rest assured that we have the experience and knowledge to provide you with the right used forklift to match your budget, so look no further. We stock a wide range of new & used forklifts, available for purchase or hire, and with a team of experienced experts on hand, we’re here to help you find the right machine for your needs. All finance options are also available on request.

To find out more, get in touch with us today or browse our full range of new and used forklifts and equipment from leading manufacturers, including CESAB, Combilift, Aisle Master, and Konecanes.