New Forklifts vs. Used Forklifts

April 3, 2018 10:54 pm Published by Leave your thoughts

If your business requires moving heavy objects on a regular basis, then you’re likely considering investing in a forklift. Not only will having this kind of equipment at your fingertips significantly improve the speed at which things get done, but it will also drastically increase efficiency. While there are several kinds of forklifts currently available on the market, you will first need to consider the pros and cons of purchasing new versus used. So, before you head to a forklift dealer in Abilene, TX, you should take some time to decide whether buying a forklift new or used is best for you and your company.

Consider the Cost

New forklifts will understandably have a higher ticket price than used forklifts, often nearly 50 percent more, but that doesn’t necessarily mean going with a used model is the better choice. When analyzing your budget, don’t forget to consider the cost of replacement parts, accessories and maintenance. If you need a specific forklift, such as one with an unusual mast height or an uncommon accessory, it’ll be far more difficult to find it used. This means you’ll either have to buy new or add the expenses of having to make alterations to a used forklift to your budget.

Consider Daily Usage

If your business runs night and day with the constant use of forklifts, investing in a new one likely makes sense. Not only are new forklifts better equipped to handle heavy loads and long shifts, but you’ll be sure to get your money’s worth. The upfront cost is high, but it will prove more effective and last longer. A used forklift is better suited for those businesses that will use it for just a few hours a day or need it on location for occasional use.

Consider the Warranty

Most new forklifts will come with a manufacturer’s warranty and might even come with an option to extend the warranty, often for somewhere between 12 and 36 months. Like with used vehicles, with used forklifts, what you see is often what you get. The dealer might offer a short warranty to ensure they haven’t sold you a lemon, but after that time period is up, you’ll be responsible for all maintenance and repair costs.

Consider Wear and Tear

When forklifts are sold used, they should come with a usage report that indicates how many hours they were used for. This gives buyers a better idea of what kind of condition a forklift is in and how much use they should expect to get out of it before it will need repairs. If exterior wear and tear is an issue for you, then you’ll want to buy a used forklift with very few hours of use, or just go with a new model.

If you’re looking for a forklift dealer in Abilene, TX, trust that the experts at V-Bar Equipment Company will help you find the ideal model to suit your needs. From new models to used, we are sure that we’ll have what you’re looking for. If you’re not ready to commit, we also offer rental options that allow you to give our forklifts a try, either to try out a certain model or to see if a forklift will help improve the efficiency of your business. Stop by today and speak to one of our forklift experts to learn more.

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