Purchasing a forklift is a significant investment in your company’s productivity and safety. Forklifts play a crucial role in transporting heavy loads, maintaining warehouse organization, and ensuring smooth operations. However, with numerous models to choose from, including brand-new and used equipment, it can be daunting to select the perfect forklift for sale. Knowing what to look for, particularly regarding forklift hours, lifespan, and maintenance, can help you make an informed, cost-effective choice that meets your needs for years to come. This article will help you understand the basics of purchasing a forklift, with clear explanations and handy advice to simplify your search.
Understanding Forklift Hours and Lifespan
What Are Forklift Hours?
Forklift hours are similar to mileage on a vehicle. They measure the time a forklift has been used, providing you with an idea of its use and wear.
Rather than measuring in years, forklift hours provide a more accurate indication of the machine’s actual usage. For instance, two forklifts could both be two years old, but one may have been used daily for eight hours, while the other was used occasionally. The second forklift will have lower hours and probably more life left in it.
Why Are Forklift Hours Important?
The hours on a forklift are an important measure of remaining useful life. As the hours on a forklift increase, the machine nears the end of its lifespan. A forklift typically lasts between 10,000 and 15,000 hours, or approximately five to seven years of constant use. However, gentle treatment and proper maintenance can lengthen the lifespan.
Useful Life of Forklift Vs. Economic Life Forklift
Useful Life of Forklift
This is the longest period of time a forklift can operate before it becomes irreparable. This time period typically spans eight to nine years, but can be longer, too.
Economic Life
This is how long it is financially worthwhile to continue operating the forklift. If repairs become too frequent or expensive, or if the downtime is negatively impacting your business, it’s time to consider a replacement, even if the forklift could technically continue to operate.
New vs. Used Forklifts for Sale
Buying New Forklifts
Purchasing used forklifts is less expensive and a wise option if you know what to look for. The trick is to find the machine with many life years remaining—preferably between 7,000 and 11,000 hours, which translates into a quarter to a half of useful life still available. Always review the maintenance history and inspect the forklift for wear or damage.
Advantages of Purchasing Used:
- Less initial cost
- More gradual depreciation
- Greater options in your budget
Disadvantages of Purchasing Used:
- Limited remaining life
- Possibility of undisclosed problems
- May not have warranty protection
What to Inspect When Purchasing a Forklift for Sale?
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Forklift Hours
As stated, forklift hours are important. Look for machines with fewer hours for longer use. If you find a used forklift with less than 7,000 hours, it’s likely a good candidate for purchase.
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Maintenance Records
A well-maintained forklift will last longer and be more reliable. Ask for service logs and check if regular maintenance was performed every 200 hours, as recommended.
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Inspection and Condition
Don’t rely solely on the hour meter. Check the forklift for:
- Leaks or rust
- Worn tires
- Frame cracks
- Smooth mast and hydraulic operation
But gentle treatment and correct maintenance will lengthen the lifespan.
Useful Life vs. Economic Life Useful Life
Useful Lifts: This is the longest period of time a forklift can operate before it becomes irreparable, usually eight or nine years, sometimes longer.
Economic Life: This is how long it is financially worthwhile to continue operating the forklift. If repairs become too frequent or expensive, or if downtime is affecting your business, it’s time to consider a replacement—even if the forklift could technically keep running.
New vs. Used Forklift For Sale
Buying New Forklifts: New forklifts come with the latest technology, warranties, and the assurance that you’re the first owner. They’re ideal for businesses that rely heavily on their equipment and want to minimize downtime. Nonetheless, new forklifts are an investment and can be out of some budgets.
Used Forklifts: A physical check or a professional assessment may identify problems that are not readily apparent from the hours.
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Application Fit
Think about your work environment and load needs:
Indoor vs. Outdoor
Electric forklifts are suited best for indoor use, while diesel or propane units work better outdoors and on rough terrain.
Load Capacity
Ensure the forklift is capable of handling your average loads. Lift Height: Examine the high lift and guarantee that it aligns with your warehouse requirements.
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Reliable Dealers
Purchase from reliable dealers who offer guarantees, service assistance, and genuine information regarding the history of the forklift. Reliable websites such as Industrial Forklift Truck partner with certified dealers and provide free estimates, simplifying it to compare alternatives.
How to Estimate a Forklift’s Remaining Life?
When considering the purchase of a forklift, you’ll want to estimate its remaining lifespan. Here’s an easy formula:
- Average Lifespan: 10,000–15,000 hours
- Ideal Used Purchase Range: 7,000–11,000 hours.
Maintenance Frequency
Every 200 hours, if a forklift has 8,000 hours and has been properly maintained, you can anticipate another few years of trouble-free use. However, if it has had a tough life or poor maintenance, even low-hour equipment can still experience issues.
Forklift Maintenance: Why It Matters?
Regular maintenance is key to prolonging the life of your forklift. Maintenance should be performed every 200 hours, including oil changes, filter replacements, and safety inspections. Properly maintained forklifts are safer, more productive, and less likely to experience sudden breakdowns.
In a Nutshell!
Purchasing a used forklift is an important decision that can significantly impact your company’s efficiency and bottom line. New or used, know the forklift hours, service, and special requirements of your operation to make a wise investment. Always prioritize reliability and safety, and don’t hesitate to seek advice from professionals or reputable dealers to ensure you obtain the best equipment for your application. Equipped with the proper forklift, your business will be equipped to handle any lifting job that comes its way.
