Six reasons why you should buy used forklifts

Elisa Cava -
Your Focus
- 27 Jun 2024 ( #1185 )
3 min read
Used forklifts are available immediately
Used forklifts are available immediately
Elisa Cava is the sales manager at Lisman Forklifts in the Netherlands. She has 13 years of experience in the used forklifts sector and has serviced a variety of markets, including Italy, the Balkans and Asia.

If you are looking to enhance materials handling operations, there’s a big chance you or your buyers automatically think about purchasing a brand new forklift.

A modern, state-of-the-art forklift equals reliability, right? While that’s entirely true, a new forklift also comes at a price – literally.

And in some cases your patience is put to the test when it comes to delivery times.

Advantages of a second-hand forklift truck 

If you are looking for an affordable solution that is directly available and up for any job, than purchasing a used forklift ticks all the boxes.

And besides pricing and availability there’s far more advantages to buying a second-hand forklift.

We’ve listed the six main reasons for why ‘buying used’ is the way to help your business – and your customers – forward.

Various benefits based on business needs, specific requirements and – of course - budget.

Buying a used forklift is beneficial because: 

1.         Cost-effectiveness

Used forklifts are generally more budget-friendly compared to new ones. You can save a significant amount of money upfront, allowing you to allocate resources to other areas of your business.

2.         Immediate availability

Ordering a new forklift often means that you have to be patient. Delivery can, in some cases, take some time. Used forklifts are available immediately, offering you an instant solution for replacing or expanding your fleet.  

3.         Increase sustainability

By choosing used forklifts to optimise your day-to-day operation, you’re making a sustainable choice. Extending the lifespan of second hand machinery and existing equipment is making use of resources that have already been expended.

4.         Less depreciation

Like many other machines and equipment, forklifts tend to lose value rapidly. Especially during the first few years of use. By purchasing a forklift truck second hand, you’re not immediately taking a big loss on your latest asset.

5.         Ongoing costs savings

As well as some negotiation room in buying a used forklift, second hand machinery insurance costs are typically lower. This results in ongoing cost savings over the lifespan of the machinery and equipment.

6.         Proven reliability

A used forklift that has been in operation for some time has a track record. Its performance history, maintenance records and other important technical information is typically provided when purchasing of the machine. 

Advantages for equipment and machinery dealers 

Used forklifts reduce capital tied up in unsold stock
Used forklifts reduce capital tied up in unsold stock

Now that we have determined the positive aspects of opting for a second-hand forklift for the everyday user, let’s point out the main advantages of purchasing used forklifts for dealerships.

Suppliers of equipment and material handling machinery claim a stronger, strategical position on various levels by adding used machinery to their inventory.

A short summary of the positives for professional businesses: 

• Lower acquisition costs mean higher profit margins when reselling

• Increase your market share by attracting a wider range of customers

• With a fast turnover-rate, used forklifts reduce capital tied up in unsold stock

• Diversify inventory by offering a wide variety of models, brands and specifications

• Adapt quickly to changes in demand as a result of market and economic conditions

• Build and expand your network of materials handling machinery suppliers and customers 

What to look for when buying used machinery? 

If you are looking to buy a used forklift it’s important to always carefully consider your - or your customers’ – needs.

What will the machine be used for? Is the machine suitable for the operating environment? What is the overall as-is state of the machine? And is operator comfort and safety assured?

Buying a second hand forklift with a business specialised in light refurbishment of used forklifts ticks all those boxes – and more.

Warehouse trucks and forklifts are thoroughly cleaned and functional. Where necessary, small improvement have been made by skilled mechanics.

Working together with such companies includes transparency in purchasing second hand forklifts for resale. 

Also Read:
The importance of active and passive safety systems from a South American perspective
Afonso Moreira
3 minute read
The importance of active and passive safety systems from a South American perspective Your Focus - 4 Jul 2024 (#1186) Afonso Moreira, chief executive officer of Brazil-based AHM Solution, looks at how active and passive safety systems can improve logistics productivity
Safeguarding operations: How automation is enhancing forklift and warehouse safety
Shawn Heidlebaugh
3 minute read
Safeguarding operations: How automation is enhancing forklift and warehouse safety Your Focus - 20 Jun 2024 (#1184) Shawn Heidlebaugh, the automation sales manager at Concentric, explains the safety benefits of automation in the warehouse
For more unique stories and expert insights: read our industry blogs
Blog articles provide perspectives and opinions and therefore may contain inaccurate or incomplete information. Forkliftaction Media accepts no responsibility for errors or omissions. If you feel that significant facts are overlooked, or have a different viewpoint on a topic addressed, we invite you to open a conversation in our Discussion Forums.

Are you recruiting? Find your ideal candidate among a diverse range of materials handling professionals:

Forkliftaction's JOB MARKET

Inside The News
As much of the world awaits the outcome of the 2024 US presidential Election, many hope whatever the result, it will mean an end to the political uncertainty which has been blamed for the subdued economic activity of the last few months... Continue reading
Caterpillar financial results Woking, United Kingdom

Showcased in the Virtual Expo

Upcoming industry events …
March 4–5, 2025 - Melbourne, Australia
March 17-20, 2025 - Chicago, United States
April 24-26, 2025 - Futian District, Shenzhen, China
Inside The News
As much of the world awaits the outcome of the 2024 US presidential Election, many hope whatever the result, it will mean an end to the political uncertainty which has been blamed for the subdued economic activity of the last few months... Continue reading
New pallet jack launched by Clark Lexington, KY, United States

Are you recruiting? Find your ideal candidate among a diverse range of materials handling professionals:

Forkliftaction's JOB MARKET

Inside The News
As much of the world awaits the outcome of the 2024 US presidential Election, many hope whatever the result, it will mean an end to the political uncertainty which has been blamed for the subdued economic activity of the last few months... Continue reading
New pallet jack launched by Clark Lexington, KY, United States
Briefs Munich, Germany

PREMIUM business

Tailift Material Handling USA Inc
Part of Toyota Industries Group - Leading manufacturer of High-quality machines.
Upcoming in the editorial calendar
FORKLIFT DAMAGE PREVENTION
Nov 2024
AGV FORKLIFT MANUFACTURERS
Feb 2025
Upcoming industry events …
March 4–5, 2025 - Melbourne, Australia
March 17-20, 2025 - Chicago, United States
April 24-26, 2025 - Futian District, Shenzhen, China