Purchasing a used forklift can be an incredibly cost-effective way for warehouse, storage and transportation managers to go about their operations. A forklift can depreciate in value the moment someone buys it which is why they are becoming increasingly more popular to purchase in today’s age. However, it’s important to keep in mind that buying anything that has been previously owned can have its own risks. As such, we have put together a helpful ‘used forklift checklist’ to guide you when purchasing these nifty machines.
Ensure It’s Appropriate For Your Application
Our first used forklift checklist recommendation is to consider how often you’ll need to use the forklift whether that be indoors, outdoors or even on the road. Think about the tasks you’ll need it for, how heavy the loads are likely to be and if there are any hazards in the working environment that could obstruct its use.
Organise An ‘In-Person’ Visual Inspection
When you are buying a used forklift online, it can be tricky to trust and rely on the images listed by potential sellers. This is why you should arrange for a visual inspection as you can properly check for signs of rust and damage. By organising an in person inspection, you can check for fluid leaks, cracks and any other indications of underlying faults which may be conveniently silenced by the seller. If you happen to be buying an electric forklift, make sure there’s life left in the battery and that it doesn’t have any signs of damage where battery acid could potentially leak out from.
Test Drive
It goes without saying that buying a used forklift can be incredibly dangerous. As such, it is recommended that you take it for a test drive in a safe environment. This is so if anything does happen to malfunction like the engine or a tyre suddenly cracks, then at least you are in a controlled environment so that no injuries can occur to yourself and others.
Extra precautions consist of making sure that the engine can properly start from cold, as certain issues aren’t always apparent with an engine that’s already warm.
Clock Readings
Another used forklift checklist is to check the clock readings as you need to judge the forklift’s working life which is measured in operating hours (not mileage). Industry experts say that one hour of use is equivalent to driving a car 30 miles so bear this in mind when tallying up the operating hours of the used forklift truck
Forks And Mast
Now we are getting into the nitty gritty parts of the forklift checklist procedure. The forks and mast could be argued to be one of the most vital parts of the forklift when in operation. The forks are used to make direct contact with a load / pallet for transport. Similarly, the forklift mast is the portion of the forklift that lifts, lowers, and positions the loads manipulated by the forks. These two work in a synergy when a load wants to be moved around the warehouse. When inspecting your forklift mast and forks, check for any cracks, bends or other types of distortion as this will have an effect when you are carrying a load.
Lift Chains
Inspect the lift chains, noting any damaged/missing links or anchor pins. Some of the common methods to gauge whether your forklift chain needs inspection are if:
- The chain is slacker on one side (this means that the adjustment is not sufficient and therefore must be balanced.
- The chain makes noise during operation
- There are rust marks on the chains
- The chain has more than 2% elongation. To find out if the chain has 2% or more elongation, simply use a chain wear indicator.
Forklift Cab
The forklift cab is the small enclosed box looking structure that protects you when you step into a forklift. Note whether the seat is securely fixed into position and the condition of the seatbelt is sufficient when strapped in. Check any signs of damage or small cracks that support the beams of the cab. If these have even any sign of wear and tear on them, get them fixed immediately. As previously stated, the cab is designed to protect you. If a load is lifted above your head and it drops, a damaged cab could break/collapse which could put your life in danger.
Final Pointers
In this section we will list a few final pointers in regards to a used forklift checklist.
Firstly, conduct some research. Finding out the current forklift price, especially for similar and used models, can save you a lot of hassle in the long run before you make a purchase of a forklift.
Choose a reputable manufacturer. Forklift Manufacturers that you have heard of often have a special offering for their pre-owned/refurbished equipment as well as being thoroughly inspected by verified technicians and often come with a warranty. If you were to go to a more uncommon brand or seller, make sure you do your due diligence and check before making a purchase.
Finally, try to avoid online purchases. While online deals can seem very tempting and appear cheap at face value. It is always best to negotiate a deal in person so you know 100% what you are getting for your money.