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When you’re responsible for keeping the department’s budget in line, every major purchase matters. It’s tempting to let price be the deciding factor when purchasing a used forklift, but this may only be a short-term gain. Considering the impact your forklift has on daily production, it must be safe and reliable.
Used Forklift Reconditioning
A website search for “used forklift” returns two main options – a forklift dealer or an equipment wholesaler. Generally collecting equipment from various sources, including units rejected by dealers, a wholesaler purchases forklifts to refurbish and sell to their customer base.
“Prices for a wholesaler’s inventory are cheaper, but you have to consider what you get for the price,” states Jarrod Tramont, Centralized Operations Manager. “At ProLift, we hold ourselves to a high standard when reconditioning forklifts. We address safety issues and replace parts that are beyond normal wear and tear. If we aren’t able to refurbish equipment to make it safe and affordable, we don’t add it to our inventory.”
Forklift Reliability and Repairs
Beware of buyer’s remorse. Most online purchases made to a wholesaler aren’t backed up with a guarantee. Buyers pay for the used forklift before its arrival, having only a few photographs to vouch for its appearance. “It’s easy to be fooled about the reliability of a used forklift. A nice paint job can distract you from the hidden mechanical issues,” explains Jarrod. “Over the years I’ve received several calls from customers that purchased a forklift at auction only to discover it wouldn’t run well, or at all, without expensive repairs. For one customer the repairs added to the cost of the “cheap” forklift totaled more than a new unit off the manufacturer’s production line!” He also warns customers about getting proof of hour meter readings. With no federal laws governing accurate readings, hour totals can be misrepresented.
Used Forklift Guarantee
Although dealers may offer a “work ready” option, these forklifts have received repairs on safety items. However, most units come with a guarantee. Warranty coverage can also be increased to a longer time period and prior to purchase, many dealers can review items that were repaired or replaced on the used forklift. “We also promise the equipment delivered matches our customer’s expectation. ProLift gives a 48-hour grace period that allows you to inspect and operate the forklift. We’re proud that less than 2% of our sold units experience a warranty issue,” says Jarrod.
Used Forklift Dealer Support
The dealer’s direct relationship to the forklift and its manufacturer offers additional support. Used inventory primarily consists of customer off-lease and trade-in units or dealer rental retirements. This benefits the used forklift’s next owner because the dealer knows the history of the unit (i.e. application, total working shifts, past repairs, etc.). Breakdowns may have also been addressed by the dealer’s certified technicians throughout its operation.
“A customer should feel secure when they make a used forklift purchase. Dealers and their manufacturers are established, proven partners,” adds Jarrod.
Are you considering a used forklift for your fleet? Shop ProLift’s inventory online, or contact an equipment specialist for more details.