Purchasing a forklift for your business is a large investment. As such, it’s important to understand what you need to look for when setting out to buy one.

Tips on What to Look for When Buying a Forklift

A used forklift for sale can be a fantastic purchase that provides you and your business with numerous benefits that you should notice immediately after you start using it. As there are so many different brands and types of forklifts available to you, there are several things you should look out for to ensure that your purchase decision is an informed one.

Ascertain Type of Forklift

The most important aspect of purchasing a forklift is identifying the type of forklift that you’re looking at. Your business likely has very specific goals it needs to meet when using the forklift. For instance, some forklifts are made to be operated down narrower aisles, while larger forklifts might include more tools and features. The smaller the forklift, the cheaper its cost will be. Some forklifts are built for rough terrain while others are made for industrial counterbalance. The latter is the most common type found in stores and warehouses. Make sure that the forklift you purchase is able to handle the loads you need to carry.

Check for Available Warranties

A warranty for the forklift you’re about to buy can be extremely useful at protecting your initial investment. Some warranties will focus on specific parts of a forklift, so pay attention to what’s covered and what’s not. If your warranty covers certain malfunctions, you won’t have to pay anything to have these problems repaired. This will pay dividends in the long run.

Perform an Inspection

You should always perform a detailed inspection of the forklift you’re about to purchase. Look around the entirety of the forklift to check if any of the important parts, like the mast rails, lift chains and canopy, are damaged in any degree. This is typically signified by cracking or bending in the metal. Next, you should look at the operational area. Make sure this area is comfortable and that the forklift operates correctly. The engine should also be checked.