Warehouse owners and managers are always looking for ways to improve efficiency, save time, and create a safer work environment. One of the most effective solutions is investing in a forklift. These essential machines streamline operations, boost productivity, and ensure smooth material handling.
When purchasing a forklift, one of the key decisions you’ll need to make is whether to buy a new or used model. Each option has its own advantages and drawbacks, so understanding them will help you make an informed choice.
Pros of a New Forklift
Better Quality
Purchasing a new forklift gives you access to the latest models with modern designs, advanced technology, and improved power and speed capabilities. These enhancements allow the machine to operate efficiently for longer periods while maintaining optimal performance.
Over time, forklifts naturally lose some of their speed and lift capacity. A new model eliminates concerns about wear and tear, reducing the need for immediate repairs and maintenance that are common with used machines.
Improved Safety
Modern forklifts come equipped with advanced safety features, such as alarms and signals that alert operators to potential hazards, as well as improved ergonomics to prevent operator fatigue and injuries. These technological advancements contribute to a safer work environment by reducing the risk of accidents, collisions, and workplace injuries.
More Attachment Options
A range of attachment options are available with new forklifts. These attachments include side shifters that allow the forks to move laterally, rotators that enable the forks to rotate, clamps to securely hold and transport specific loads, boom attachments that convert the forklift into a small crane, etc. These attachments significantly enhance the functionality of the equipment, making it a versatile tool to be used for more tasks.
Cons of a New Forklift
Cost
The biggest downside of purchasing a new forklift is the price. As with any new equipment, the upfront cost is significantly higher than that of a used model. However, the long-term benefits, such as reliability and efficiency, can justify the investment.
Need for Additional Training
New forklifts often come with updated technology, new control systems, and enhanced features. This may require additional training for your operators to ensure they can use the equipment efficiently and safely. If your team is not prepared for further training, opting for a new model might not be the best decision.
Pros of a Used Machine
Jakatics | Dreamstime.com
Cost Effective
For businesses on a tight budget, a used forklift can be an excellent option. Pre-owned models are significantly cheaper than new ones, often available at a fraction of the cost. Many used forklifts are still in excellent condition, especially those that have been well-maintained and serviced regularly.
Additionally, used forklifts are typically available for immediate purchase, reducing wait times compared to ordering a new model, which can take weeks or even months to arrive. This quicker availability minimises downtime and keeps productivity on track.
Operator Familiarity
Unlike new models that feature updated technology and redesigned controls, used forklifts often have familiar operating systems. If your team has experience with a specific make or model, buying a similar used forklift can reduce the learning curve, allowing employees to get to work quickly without the need for extensive retraining.
This familiarity also enhances safety, as operators are less likely to make errors due to inexperience with a new system.
Ease of Maintenance
Used forklifts typically have widely available parts, making maintenance and repairs more straightforward and cost-effective. Unlike newer models that may require specialised tools or diagnostic software, most mechanics are already familiar with common maintenance issues and solutions for older forklifts.
Cons of a Used Machine
Wear and Tear
Like any second-hand vehicle or equipment, a used forklift will naturally have some wear and tear. This can include minor dents, scratches, or reduced performance. If you’re considering a used forklift, it’s crucial to review its maintenance and repair history. Assess how frequently it has been used and how often it will be required in your warehouse to determine if it’s a practical option.
Limit Warranty
New forklifts often come with comprehensive manufacturer warranties that cover parts and labour for several years. In contrast, used forklifts typically have limited or short-term warranties, depending on the dealer and the machine’s condition. This means you may have to budget for potential repairs sooner than you would with a new model.
When Should You Consider New?
You should consider investing in a new forklift if you plan to use it for more than four hours a day, five days a week. That means, if you’re running a high-demand business, like 24/7 warehousing or manufacturing, a new forklift is likely to offer you better long-term reliability.
Your facility’s layout and operation also need to be considered. For example, if you’re operating a warehouse with a 7.5-metre tall pallet racking system, you may have trouble finding a truck with that tall of a mast on the used market. Likewise, if you’re stacking pallets inside semi-trailers, you might have a hard time finding a lift with a shortened “truckers” mast.
If your facility has narrow aisle widths, you may require a short-frame 3-wheel electric forklift, a swing reach truck, or a side loader forklift. Each of these trucks is hard to find on the used market.
It’s also important to ensure the forklift’s hydraulic system aligns with your specific operational requirements. So, before purchasing a used model, evaluate its availability and compatibility to make sure it can handle the tasks you need it for.
When Should You Consider Used?
If your operation doesn’t require the latest technology or if the forklift will be used intermittently rather than for heavy daily workloads, a second-hand model can be a great deal. Beginners and small businesses, in particular, can benefit from the lower initial cost of a used forklift, freeing up the budget for other essential expenses.
Additionally, if your team is already familiar with a specific make or model, choosing a used version can reduce the need for extensive training. Used forklifts are also ideal for backup or seasonal use, where having an extra machine on hand is helpful but doesn’t justify the expense of a brand-new one.
To ensure you buy a reliable, cost-effective machine that meets your needs, consider buying from a reputable dealer and make sure to review the maintenance history of the equipment.
