Refurbished forklifts can be a great investment for businesses looking to optimise their operations without overspending. Balancing affordability with functionality, these machines offer a practical alternative to their brand-new counterparts.
In this guide, we will dive into the advantages and disadvantages, compare refurbished and new options, provide crucial tips for finding a reputable forklift dealer and assessing a refurbished forklift.
The Advantages & Disadvantages Of Refurbished Forklifts
Advantages Of Refurbished Forklifts
Cost Savings: The most significant advantage of going refurbished is the potential savings. You can often find high-quality forklifts at a fraction of the cost of new ones.
Quick Availability: Refurbished forklifts are typically available for immediate purchase and use, bypassing the manufacturing and delivery wait times associated with new models. This can be crucial for businesses needing to quickly scale up their operations or replace broken down equipment.
Access to Discontinued Models: Sometimes, a particular forklift model fits a company’s needs so well that finding a similar replacement becomes a necessity, especially if that model has been discontinued. Refurbished forklifts can provide access to these hard-to-find models, ensuring businesses can continue operating with their preferred equipment without having to make costly adjustments to accommodate a different type of machine.
Legacy Model Compatibility: Businesses that rely on older forklift models for their operations can benefit significantly from refurbished forklifts. Finding a new forklift that matches the operational and mechanical synergy of an existing fleet can be challenging. Refurbished units often provide a perfect match, ensuring seamless integration with legacy equipment, simplifying training, and maintaining uniformity in maintenance practices.
Disadvantages Of Refurbished Forklifts
Shorter Lifespan: Due to their pre-used nature, refurbished forklifts may have a shorter operational lifespan compared to new models, potentially leading to earlier replacement needs.
Limited Warranty: The warranty on a refurbished forklift is often shorter and less comprehensive than what you would receive with a new model, potentially leading to higher out-of-pocket costs for repairs or maintenance.
Variability in Quality: The condition of refurbished forklifts can vary widely depending on the previous owner’s use, the refurbishing process, and the dealer’s standards, making it hard to ensure consistency in quality.
Difficulty Finding Parts: For older or less common forklift models, finding replacement parts can be more challenging and expensive than for new models.
Refurbished Forklifts vs New ForkliftsÂ
When comparing new and refurbished forklifts you should consider your budget, operational needs, preferences for the latest technology and Adaptability and Future-Proofing. Lets see how these considerations stack up:
Budget Considerations
Refurbished Forklifts: The initial cost advantage is clear with refurbished forklifts. They are significantly more budget-friendly, allowing businesses to stretch their equipment funds further. This is particularly advantageous for small to medium-sized enterprises or any operation looking to expand its fleet without a hefty investment.
New Forklifts: New forklifts require a larger initial investment. However, financing options and the possibility of lower operating costs over time can offset the upfront price. For businesses with the capital to invest and a focus on long-term savings, new forklifts could be the more economically viable choice.
Operational Needs
Refurbished Forklifts: For operations where the latest technology isn’t a priority, refurbished forklifts can meet most operational needs effectively. They are particularly beneficial when a business requires equipment that aligns with existing older models or when the forklift will be used in less demanding conditions.
New Forklifts: For businesses with high-demand operations, the enhanced performance, reliability, and efficiency of new forklifts might be necessary. The latest models come equipped with advanced safety features, better fuel efficiency, and are designed to handle intense usage, making them suitable for operations that rely heavily on forklifts.
Preferences for the Latest Technology
Refurbished Forklifts: While refurbished forklifts may not have the latest technological advancements, many are still equipped with relatively modern features that can efficiently meet a variety of operational needs. For businesses that do not require cutting-edge technology, refurbished forklifts offer a practical and cost-effective solution.
New Forklifts: New forklifts are at the forefront of technology, offering the best in safety, efficiency, and operational capabilities. For businesses that prioritize having the latest features — such as telematics, automation compatibility, and advanced emission controls — new forklifts represent the best investment.
Adaptability and Future-Proofing
Refurbished Forklifts: Refurbished forklifts offer a flexible and economically viable option for businesses that need to adapt quickly to changing operational demands without committing to the long-term investment of new technology. They allow companies to respond to immediate needs or scale operations with less financial strain. However, the potential for technological obsolescence means they might not always meet future operational requirements as business grows or evolves.
New Forklifts: Investing in new forklifts is a strategic move towards future-proofing your operations. With the latest technology, these forklifts are better equipped to adapt to future advancements in material handling, such as automation and integration with warehouse management systems. For businesses planning for growth and looking to leverage technological advancements in the long run, new forklifts provide a foundation that supports scalability and operational efficiency.
Key Checklist For Assessing The Quality Of Refurbished Forklifts
When assessing a refurbished forklift, it’s crucial to conduct a detailed evaluation to ensure the equipment meets your operational needs, here’s what you should look at:
Physical and Operational Assessment
- Body and Mast: Check for significant wear or damage.
- Tires: Inspect for excessive wear or damage.
- Engine and Transmission: Test for smooth operation, unusual noises, or vibrations.
- Lift Mechanism: Ensure lifting, lowering, and tilting functions operate smoothly.
- Brakes and Steering: Confirm responsiveness and accuracy.
Maintenance and Safety
- Service Records: Review maintenance history for regular servicing and major repairs.
- Battery/Hydraulics: For electric models, check battery condition and inspect hydraulic systems for leaks.
- Safety Features: Verify the functionality of lights, horns, seat belts, and alarms.
Warranty
- Warranty Duration: Note the length of the warranty period offered with the refurbished forklift. A longer warranty can indicate confidence in the equipment’s reliability.
- Coverage Scope: Clarify what aspects of the forklift the warranty covers. Does it include parts, labour, or both? Are there specific components or issues that are not covered?
- Claim Process: Understand the process for filing a warranty claim. Determine any requirements or conditions that must be met for the warranty to be valid.
Finding A Reputable Refurbished Forklift Dealer
Securing a good deal on a refurbished forklift hinges significantly on the dealer’s reputation and reliability. A reputable dealer not only provides quality equipment but also ensures transparency, support, and service post-purchase.
This is where Forkify comes in. We have a network of pre vetted forklift dealers spanning across the UK. With Forkify, you benefit from our rigorous selection process, guaranteeing each dealer meets high standards of quality, transparency, and customer service, making your search for the perfect refurbished forklift simpler and more secure.
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Final Thoughts
Wrapping up, refurbished forklifts are a solid pick for most businesses. They’re usually cheaper and ready to go almost immediately. Just remember, the trick to getting a good one lies in picking the right dealer and doing your homework on the forklift’s history and condition.