Well- here it goes- my 2 cents worth:

gatorman- you are absolutely correct- there are multiple associations in our industry & all of them have a code of ethics. The question is- who abides by them? I have had several local franchised dealers- who have all the plaques in their showrooms of all the associations they belong to, have no ethics at all when dealing with customers. Ignorance on the end users part ends up being more profits for the dealer. And in the end, this behavior gives our industry a bad name.

I wanted to thank the admin for giving us a chance to post our thoughts on this issue- there are some of us out here who care about this industry & where it's headed. I've been giving this topic a lot of thought since admin started the thread.

I believe a check list is what's needed for end users to be able to make informed decisions on a used forklift purchase. If a signed form of the exact condition of the equipment along with the specifics of any warranty offered is given, then maybe a level playing field again may be possible.

Perhaps an association specifically for internet sales could be established- an association with a code of ethics specific to this type of transaction. I would think that membership to such an entity would hold value to end users & therefore make the lifts offered by members more valuable. Also then- conversely- violating the code would mean dismissal from the association. Just a thought- waiting to hear others views.

Any end users out there have anything to add?

There are enough Codes of conduct for all the Material Handling Associations. IMO it all boils down to Integrity-Webster's definition: Adherence to moral and ethical principles; soundness of moral character, honesty. I speak of this having worked in the industry and retiring after 40 years-6 of those in service functions and 34 working in the same sales territory calling on the same accounts. You can't go to Walmart and buy a 5 Lb. box of Integrity, consume it and claim to have 'it'. If the management of the Co. you work for is lacking it- it's time to move onto a place where they have interest in investing in their future by investing in yours in the form of training and product updates and standing behind your decisions with the customer. The primary reason that independent or Franchised dealers have to move further out of their territory is their lack of 'it' and you continue to do your job in your own territory you will make a difference. It takes many years of working at 'it' but will pay off in the long term. There will always be people that will bite on that 'to good to be true' deal- just be sure to be there for the next opportunity.

We received this from the Australian Industrial Truck Association (AITA):

I note in todays issue of ForkliftAction.com (edition #645) the reference to the discussion / suggestion about the need for a code of conduct or ethics to cover forklift sales and service.

The Australian Industrial Truck Association (AITA) represents the interests of the major suppliers of lift trucks and associated equipment in Australia. The major focus of AITA is to ensure the highest possible standards of performance, safety and client satisfaction. To this end some years ago the AITA developed a Code of Conduct under which all AITA members currently operate.

Further, the AITA has developed a guidance note to provide advice to consumers considering purchasing second hand, or grey import equipment from overseas. This is one of a series of guidance notes and technical bulletins developed by the AITAs Engineering Committee to provide up to date information on issues of concern to the industry.

These documents are available on the AITA website, or here for your information:
- AITA's Code of Conduct
- AITA's Guide on Grey Imports.

Sue Hart
Executive Officer
Australian Industrial Truck Association (AITA)

Great Subject. First thing needed in my mind is a defined repair process for different levels of "reconditioned". Example: Level 1- XXXX hours or less on machine. All safety and operational needs addressed. Oil samples pulled on IC machines and results provided to customers. Counterweight slicked and OEM style paint and decals. Documented compression/ transmission pack pressures. 75 percent or more remaining on tire tread. Includes warranty. Level 2: Same as level one, except no transmission pack pressures or engine compression. Tires 50 percent or better. OEM paint and decals but not "automotive slick". Less warranty. Level 3: Same as level 2 without paint and less warranty. ALL RECONDITIONED FORKLIFTS START WITH LEAKS AND DEFICIENCIES NOTED. THEN DEGREASE AND PRESSURE WASH. TOP AND BOTTOM. (yes that means lifting machine in the air)