There are many times when it makes sense to buy a used forklift so that you can reduce your upfront costs while still having access to the quality equipment needed in your facilities. But the harsh reality is that buying the wrong equipment can be an expensive mistake, which is why it’s critical that you are proactive about doing your research and knowing what to check when buying a used forklift.
In this guide, we are highlighting the most important things that you need to look at before making this important purchase. Our team at BullDog Forklifts is here to help every step of the way, ensuring that you find the right equipment to suit your unique needs.
Before You Buy: Know What You Need
The first step before you start looking at used forklifts is to identify your requirements so that you can find equipment that aligns with your needs. Our experienced team at BullDog Forklifts recommends three essential things to consider that will help you choose the right forklift:
- Capacity: What is your maximum load weight and center? Know these numbers so that you can find a forklift that will suit your load requirements. Buying an undersized forklift will result in safety and compliance concerns.
- Fuel Type: Propane and diesel forklifts are ideal for outdoor/rugged use and when the equipment will be used for multiple shifts each day. If you are operating the forklift in an indoor environment and have a charging infrastructure, then an electric forklift is ideal since it’s quieter and doesn’t have any emissions.
- Hours of Use: Every used forklift is rated by the number of hours that it has been in operation. Low mileage is anything under 5,000 hours. A mid-range used forklift will have between 5,000 and 10,000 hours of use. If the forklift has over 10,000 hours of use, then you need to be cautious and complete a careful inspection to evaluate the overall quality of the equipment.
Follow This Used Forklift Inspection Checklist
If you are wondering how to inspect a used forklift, then this checklist will help you get started with the most important functions and safety features on the equipment.
- Forks, Mast, and Chains: Check these areas of the forklift for any potential issues, such as cracks, bends, or an uneven height. If the head wear is 10% of the original thickness or more, then OSHA requires replacement. Run the mast through a full cycle of lifting and lowering to ensure that the movements are smooth (there should be no driving or hesitation). Check the chains to see that they have even tension and no rust or kinking. If the chain is stretched, then it should be replaced.
- Tires, Hydraulics, and Engine: If the tire treads are at or below the molded wear line, then you need to replace the tires immediately. Inspect the hydraulic cylinders, hoses, and fittings. Watch for any leaks, as well as dark or milky fluid. Try raising the mast and then shutting off the engine…if you see any drifting (more than 1-2 inches per minute), then it could be an indication of a seal failure.
- Used Electric Forklift Battery Inspection: If you are looking at a used forklift, then check on the battery quality. Most batteries last for 1,500-2,000 charge cycles (around 5-7 years), and you should budget between $3,000 and $8,000 when the battery needs to be replaced. Look for any signs of battery damage, such as corrosion, swelling, or a cracked casing. Also, perform a load test; if the battery is at 60% of the rated capacity, then it means it will need to be replaced soon.
- Safety Features and OSHA Compliance: Inspect the necessary safety features, such as the overhead guard, load backrest, seatbelt, horn, lights, and data plate. If the data plates are missing or altered, then do not buy the used forklift. You must have a matching, legible data plate to meet OSHA safety requirements.
- How to Check Forklift Hour Meter Accuracy: Not only do you need to look at the displayed hours, but also cross-reference this information with the physical wear on the seat, pedals, and controls. If you see a lot of wear in these areas but the hours are low, then it could be a sign that tampering occurred.
- Maintenance Records: Checking the maintenance records is another way to determine if the displayed hours are accurate. For example, if there are gaps at low levels that seem suspicious, then it’s a red flag. Also, check the maintenance records for oil change intervals, documented repairs, and inspection records. If the seller refuses to provide the documentation, then it’s likely that the forklift did not receive consistent maintenance.
Used Forklift Red Flags (And When to Walk Away)
Knowing what to check when buying a used forklift helps you avoid wasted money and lost time. If you see any of these issues, then walk away from the purchase and look for another used forklift that is in better condition:
- Cracked or repaired welds on the mast or frame
- The data plate is missing or altered
- The hour meter isn’t consistent with the level of physical wear
- The seller won’t allow time for a buyer inspection
Also, there could be potential issues that you can use as negotiation points to lower the price. These things don’t necessarily mean that you need to walk away from the purchase. Instead, ask for a discount since you will need to put a bit of money into the equipment:
- Worn tires
- Aging battery
- Minor hydraulic leaks
FAQs
How do I know if a forklift hour meter has been reset?
There will be visible signs of wear on the seat, pedals, and controls that don’t align with the number on the hour meter. High wear and low hours could be a red flag that tampering has occurred.
Should I buy a used forklift from a dealer or a private seller?
Buying from a used forklift dealer means that you have access to the inspection and maintenance documentation. The risk is much lower when buying a used forklift from a dealer instead of a private seller because you are reducing the risk of deferred maintenance.
Buying a Forklift from BullDog Takes the Risk Out of “Used”
At BullDog Forklifts, we take pride in the quality of our equipment, ensuring that every used forklift goes through a thorough inspection before hitting the sales lot. Not only do you receive a full maintenance record, but you can rest assured knowing that our team is here to help with servicing and maintenance as needed.
If you are ready to buy or rent a forklift, then contact us at BullDog Forklifts today.