Top Reasons to Buy a Used Forklift

A forklift is a major benefit to your operation, but it can also be a major expense. What are the benefits of buying used? The obvious reason is that used forklifts are less expensive than newer ones, but there’s more to it.

Don’t Pay For What You Don’t Need

New forklifts have new features. Take a look at new models and the new features the forklift dealer is touting. If you don’t need them, consider buying a used model. This way you’re not paying for what you don’t need.

Afford More Forklifts Over Time

When you save money by buying used forklifts, especially over a long period of time, you may be able to buy more forklifts for your company. For instance, if your warehouse manager wants one or more forklifts for a variety of tasks, you can use the money you save (by not buying new) to get a variety of forklifts. For instance, you can get one electric forklift and one diesel. They serve different purposes and work in different environments. The electric model is clean, quiet and nimble, and most suitable for indoor work. The diesel is tough and strong but emits foul air that makes it only suitable for outdoor work. Instead of buying one expensive brand new model that can do indoor and outdoor work well enough, you may be able to buy two models perfectly suited for the variety of jobs you need to get done. 

New Model Depreciation

As with new cars, the value of a new forklift depreciates pretty quickly in its first year. When you buy a used forklift, its value declines more slowly. 

Familiarity of Older Models

Another reason you might want to buy a used forklift is familiarity. Your forklift operators are likely more familiar with the controls and features of models that are a few years old compared to brand new units with new controls and features. 

Buying A Used Forklift Vs A Forklift Rental

Another way to save money is to rent forklifts instead of buying. Renting is a good option if your need is seasonal or temporary, but buying used forklifts means they are always available when the need arises. Renting also could mean that your operators need to re-train for the model that the dealer has available for rental. 

If you’re interested in forklift sales or rentals, come and talk to us at Ring Power Lift Trucks. For 60 years, our locally-owned and operated business has provided superior products and the newest technology in forklifts, exceeding our customers’ expectations. With 14 convenient locations throughout Florida, Ring Power Corporation has become one of the largest Caterpillar® dealers in the Southeastern United States because of our dedication to customer service. Whether you need to buy a new or used forklift, or you’d prefer a short-term or long-term forklift rental, we’re here for you. We also supply forklift parts and service in north and central Florida for every make and model of forklift.  Call 877.544.5438 or visit our website for more information.