Your company's forklift procurement process may be a daunting one. In the end, you get a plethora of choices. Instead of worrying about the features you need or the model you should purchase, you may be asking: Should I buy it new or used?
The good news is that this blog will outline four important considerations for selecting the best decision for your business, including requirements and finances.
Forklift Truck For Sales in Tuscaloosa, AL - Why Buy Used Forklifts?
1. The Cost
Used trucks are usually the most cost-effective option, so they might be appealing if your company has to watch their spending when purchasing equipment.
Here are some examples of possible scenarios for the pricing of new and used forklifts:
Just An Example:
An LPG-powered cushion weighing 5,000 pounds is the first item:
Approximately $24,000 to $30,000 brand new
A 5,000-pound electric sit-down rider: Used: around $9,900 to $21,900
Approximately $35,000 to $40,500.
From about $8,550 to about $25,000.
However, another cost component applies to both new and used trucks equally—the total cost of ownership—so don't let the purchase price be the only cost determinant.
In case you have never heard of it, let me explain it in simple terms.
Everything that goes into keeping the forklift running is part of the total cost of ownership. It encompasses all expenses, such as acquisition, gasoline, operator education, and upkeep.
Consider the ongoing maintenance expenses while choosing between new and secondhand. This is because the maintenance expenses for used lifts are higher due to the increased wear and tear.
You can obtain a more complete picture of the actual costs of new and used lifts when you include the whole cost of ownership rather than merely the purchase price. And that can guide your decision-making process.
II - Your Work Requirements
Experts agree that if you intend to use your truck for more than four hours every day, five days a week, you should consider getting a new one. Therefore, upgrading if your manufacturing or warehousing activity runs continuously is best.
However, there are a few other factors besides the anticipated service hours. The first is the design and functionality of your building. You might need help locating a used truck if, for example, your warehouse has racking that is 25 feet tall.
Similarly, a shorter "trucker's" mast may make locating a lift suitable for stacking pallets inside semi-trailers challenging.
Consider a swing reach truck, side loader forklift, or short-frame 3-wheel electric forklift if your facility's aisle widths are on the narrow side. Used versions of each of these trucks could take a lot of work to come by. Finally, think about the truck's hydraulic arrangement.
Paper roll clamps and fork positioners are multi-function attachments requiring at least four functions. However, it could be challenging to find a used truck that fulfills all of your operational criteria while still having that many functions. It is costly to add additional hydraulic operations to a vehicle. Therefore, you should try something different if you are in such a predicament. For starters, you'll be able to acquire the right arrangement.
III. A Record of the Truck's Maintenance
Productivity is critical, regardless of your line of work. You aren't going to buy a forklift and then leave it idling. You can't afford expensive downtime events if your organization depends on equipment running at maximum uptime; after all, you bought it to work.
New is better: more dependable, less maintenance required, less downtime, and more production overall. New trucks, of course, will show no signs of use. However, an extended warranty will give you peace of mind if something goes wrong. Unfortunately, not every secondhand forklift has that guarantee.
But, if you're willing to take a little more chance, a secondhand lift truck could be a fantastic option if you use the lift occasionally or as a backup.
So, think long and hard about the truck's background before you buy it. Gather the service hours and maintenance log in advance as a first step.
Next, try to gather further information regarding the truck's past worksite.
Indeed, these machines can be damaged by specific types of workplaces and methods of operation, such as:
- Severe temperature swings
- Continuous operation during various shifts
- Inadequate upkeep procedures
- Abusive operators
Another part of the electric lift's service history you should consider is the battery's condition.
When shopping for batteries, it's best to aim for ones that still have 80% of their capacity. That works out to about four hours of use time before a charge is required.
If you are confident about the truck's past and present, the following step is to get a professional mechanic to look at it. Among the things they can notify you of are structural flaws, mechanical defects, and safety hazards, such as:
- Inadequate overhead protection
- The mast is lopsided or bound
- Leaks
- Audible sounds
- Problems with the wiring
- Discrepancies in tire wear
You can lessen the likelihood of getting a subpar secondhand truck by purchasing it from a dealership that the manufacturer has authorized. The quality of the used lifts they sell is guaranteed to be up to par because they must meet the brand's rigorous criteria.
IV - Your Urgency:
In an ideal scenario, you could foresee precisely when a lift truck would be required. You can obtain it in time if you plan. The truth, though, is that your operational circumstances and requirements are unpredictable.
Your company may be booming. On the other hand, you're now missing a lift truck or two. A forklift is an absolute lifesaver. Used trucks could be a good option for you if that's the case. Buying an old lift truck and getting it up and running can be accomplished especially if you go with a reputable, nearby dealership.
Conversely, new vehicles take up to 18 weeks to go from production to the dealership and be customer-ready, which may be too long for your company's needs.
Conclusion
Forklift trucks available for sale in Tuscaloosa, AL, are high in demand due to four essential considerations when deciding between a new and used forklift. You might still have questions after reading all our helpful information. If so, talking to people who work in the field and are familiar with forklift trucks is your best bet. Get the best lift for your needs and budget with the advice of the professionals at Truck Forklifts. They can answer any inquiries specific to your scenario.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where can I purchase a forklift truck in Tuscaloosa, AL?
A: You can find forklift trucks for sale at local dealerships and equipment suppliers in Tuscaloosa.
Q: Are there specific regulations for forklift sales in Tuscaloosa, AL?
A: Yes, be sure to check and comply with local regulations, including safety and licensing requirements, when purchasing a forklift in Tuscaloosa.
Q: Can I finance a forklift sale in Tuscaloosa, AL?
A: Many forklift dealers in Tuscaloosa offer financing options; inquire with the dealership about financing plans for your purchase.
