Why Buy a Used Forklift Truck?
Reasons You Should Buy A Refurbished Forklift
Purchasing a used forklift can be a shrewd financial decision, providing significant cost savings while still delivering the performance your business requires. Whether you’re aiming to cut expenses, expand your fleet, or find a backup machine, a used forklift could be the perfect solution. But is it the right choice for you? Let’s examine it closely.
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The Cost Advantage of Buying Used
One of the primary reasons businesses opt to purchase used forklifts is the cost. A used forklift can frequently be 30-50% less expensive than a new model. If you only require a forklift for light-duty tasks or occasional use, spending extra on a brand-new machine may not be financially sensible.
Lower costs also mean a faster return on investment, particularly for small businesses or startups managing tight budgets. Instead of tying up funds in a new purchase, you can invest in other areas of your business while still getting the equipment you need.
When Might Your Business Need a Used Forklift?
A used forklift is ideal if:
✔ You only require a forklift for a short-term project
✔ You need a backup machine in case one of your primary forklifts breaks down
✔ You’re growing your fleet without a huge upfront investment
✔ You need a forklift immediately and can’t wait for a new one to be delivered
7 Reasons to Buy a Used Forklift
- Lower Upfront Cost
The most obvious advantage—buying used is simply more affordable than buying new. - Immediate Availability
No long manufacturing lead times—find a used forklift and get to work straight away. - Lower Maintenance Costs
Many used forklifts have been fully serviced and inspected, meaning they are in excellent working order and won’t require costly repairs anytime soon. - Cheaper Replacement Parts
Spare parts for used forklifts tend to be more readily available and less expensive compared to newer models. - Environmentally Friendly
Buying used extends the lifecycle of a forklift, reducing waste and lowering your carbon footprint. - Easier Operator Transition
Workers may already be familiar with the controls of a used forklift, minimising training time and reducing the risk of operational mistakes. - Proven Reliability
A well-maintained used forklift has already demonstrated its durability. If it’s still in good condition, it’s likely to serve you well for years to come.
Inspecting a Used Forklift: What to Check
Before buying a used forklift, it’s crucial to inspect its condition. Here’s what to look for:
Operating Hours – Similar to a car’s mileage, forklifts with under 10,000 hours are generally considered in good condition.
Maintenance Records – Always ask for a detailed service history to understand how well the forklift has been maintained.
Forks & Mast – Check for cracks, bending, or excessive wear.
Battery Condition (For Electric Forklifts) – Ensure the battery has enough remaining charge cycles to be cost-effective.
Tyres & Brakes – Worn-out tyres or faulty brakes can be costly replacements.
Hydraulics & Leaks – Watch for fluid leaks, as these can indicate expensive repairs down the line.
Tip: If you’re unsure about assessing a used forklift yourself, always buy from a trusted dealer like Easy Truck to ensure quality and reliability.
Used Forklift vs. New Forklift: Which One Is Right for You?
| Factor | Used Forklift | New Forklift |
| Price | Lower upfront cost | Higher upfront cost |
| Availability | Ready for immediate use | May require weeks/months for delivery |
| Depreciation | Slower depreciation | Loses value quickly |
| Maintenance Costs | Lower if well-maintained | Covered by warranty but costly after |
| Technology | Older models, fewer updates | Latest features and efficiency improvements |
While new forklifts offer the latest technology and warranties, used forklifts provide significant cost savings and immediate availability. The best choice depends on your business needs and budget.
Why Buy an Approved Refurbished Forklift from Easy Truck?
Not all used forklifts are the same. At Easy Truck, we go beyond simple repairs—we fully refurbish our Toyota forklifts to restore them to like-new condition.
Our rigorous refurbishment process includes:
✔ Deep cleaning & inspection – Identifying hidden faults and ensuring the forklift is structurally sound.
✔ Full mechanical overhaul – Replacing or repairing key components using only genuine OEM parts.
✔ Expert bodywork & paintwork – Restoring the forklift’s aesthetics to match its original manufacturer standard.
Every refurbished Easy Truck forklift undergoes comprehensive testing to guarantee performance, reliability, and safety. That’s why we confidently offer a 12-month warranty—the same as many new forklifts!
Want to see exactly how we bring forklifts back to life? Check out our full refurbishment process here: Easy Truck Forklift Refurbishment Process
Rich’s Tips for Forklift Longevity
Operating Environment:
- Harsh conditions, like heavy salt environments, require more frequent and thorough servicing and maintenance.
- Carefully maintained warehouses can significantly extend service life of trucks.
Regular Maintenance:
- Conduct regular inspections and take immediate corrective actions to minimise the risk of major breakdowns.
Number of Operators:
- Assigning a single driver to a truck ensures consistent handling, reducing wear and tear and promoting accountability for the vehicle’s condition.
Operator Care and Attention:
- Damage to components like the overhead guard necessitates costly repairs and poses safety hazards.
- Foster a culture of responsibility for machinery among operators to ensure longevity and safety.
Final Thoughts
Buying a used forklift can be a cost-effective, practical, and sustainable choice—but only if you choose wisely. By inspecting key components, reviewing maintenance records, and purchasing from a trusted dealer, you can secure a machine that delivers reliable performance without breaking the bank.
Looking for a high-quality used forklift? Browse our range of Approved Used Toyota forklifts at Easy Truck today!