Before purchasing a new or used forklift, there are several things that you must take into account. Think about the following things before deciding.
Step 1: What are your needs?
Think about the types of loads you would be lifting and how heavy they normally are. Consider the maximum lifting height which you would require. Find out whether you will be utilizing the forklift outdoors or indoors, or both. Measure the width of your narrowest aisles and estimate how much maneuvering space there is. What will be the duration of use per day in terms of hours?
Step 2: Is a used forklift your best choice?
If you will be using the forklift four hours per day or less, you can likely get away with purchasing used.
Step 3: Fuel options
Electric forklifts are suitable for using indoors because they are relatively quiet and produce no exhaust emissions. They have big batteries that could last eight hours before needing to be recharged. The cost of buying electric forklifts is higher, but the operating expenses are lower. On the plus side, they do not require fuel storage space. They also tend to last longer as they have fewer moving parts. However, the time it takes to recharge the battery should be taken into account. This can as long as 16 hours, including cooling and recharging. And battery recharging stations may be needed.
Step 4: Tire choice
Cushion tires are utilized in forklifts. There are several alternatives when it comes to tires. Several are fabricated of solid rubber, some are inflated, and several combine qualities of both - solid pneumatic tires. For indoor application, cushion tires are suggested. For outdoor use, pneumatic tires are better. Solid pneumatic tires are less likely to be punctured by sharp objects or rough terrain so they are the best choice for risky conditions.
Step 5: Think about additional options
Additional options should be considered when buying a used or new forklift truck. Look at the different attachments which you might require to customize your forklift. Check out the forklift's ergonomics and safety features
Step 6: Evaluate your options
To be able to find out what type of forklift really meets your requirements, renting various brands and models is a great idea. A good dealer will agree to help you with this. This would ensure that the kind of forklift you ultimately buy is the right one for your requirements. Be certain to consult with your dealer.