We all know someone who has to have the newest model of everything, whether it’s the newest smart phone or computer… or forklift. It’s an ongoing debate- the advantage of new vs. used.
What might be best for you really depends on your own circumstances.
For example, if you find yourself needing a forklift right away, used may be the best way for you to go, as there is usually a shorter lead time for delivery. Naturally, a used lift may have a pre-existing condition, and will have more wear and tear by definition and may not last as long as a shiny new forklift.
Consider, too, how and where your forklift will be used. Indoors on a smooth concrete floor creates much less wear and tear than working outside on an uneven terrain.
Buy used, and you may find yourself with a wider choice of options and models “off the lot.”
Then there’s the warranty. Brand new means new full-factory warranty. A new warranty could be offered over 2 years, 5 years or even 10,000 hours. For a used unit, the warranty depends on the age of the lift, usually 30-60 days on the full machine. That’s a lot less.
As for maintenance and upkeep, naturally a new forklift will have less initial concerns, and likely more time before you have to start really paying attention to the parts and maintenance.
However, according to Atlantic Forklift Services LLC Sales Manager Robert Scott, both new and used forklifts should be put on a preventative maintenance schedule of every 200-250 hours, or every six months, whichever comes first.
“If maintained,” Scott says, “all lifts, new or used, can last well over 20,000 hours or more.”
So, new vs. used: it’s really up to you and your needs, urgency and budget.
Got questions? Feel free to Contract Us – our sales staff can help.