Finding Bargains on Used Forklifts and Reach Trucks

Phil Black - PII Editor 11/06/2024

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You know what they say – buy nice, not twice. When it comes to warehouse equipment like forklifts and Used reach trucks, that advice rings true. These workhorses can set you back tens of thousands of dollars if bought brand new. But who really needs that fresh-from-the-factory smell anyway? With a little patience and know-how, you can score seriously good deals on used models that'll run like champs for years.

The Used Truck Market

There's a huge market for pre-owned Lisman Forklifts and reach trucks out there. Former rental fleets, warehouses going out of business, overstock from dealers – these all feed a constant supply of used inventory. Savvy buyers can find killer bargains, sometimes 50% off the original price or more!

For example, a brand new Yale reach truck can set you back $35,000+. But you could potentially snag a 5-year-old model with 7,000 hours on the clock for $12,000-15,000. Same capable lifting power, just oozing more character (i.e. scratches and dings).

Places to Hunt for Deals

So where do you find these used gems? Online liquidators like Truck&Trailer World and Ccmtex are packed with pre-owned warehouse truck listings. You can filter for reach capacities, lift heights, brands, prices, and more.

Additionally, keep tabs on traditional marketplaces like TruckPaper and GovPlanet, which offer trucks from regular sellers and government surplus auctions. Some dedicated forklift/lift vendors like United Mobile Solutions and EquipmentHub are also worth bookmarking.

Pro tip: don't sleep on places like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and good ol' fashioned want ads. You can sometimes uncover killer private deals from warehouses shutting down.

The Inspection and History Checklist

Okay, so you found some promising used truck listings. Before pulling the trigger, be sure to carefully vet the equipment condition and background.

Always examine the lift in person or via detailed video/photos. Key things to scrutinize:

Hours listed on the meter
Any damage or excessive wear on components
Oil/hydraulic fluid levels & leaks
Operations of all controls, brakes, lights, etc.
Emissions levels and exhaust quality

Also score the full service history including maintenance records. Know the seller's background – was it owned by a single warehouse or rental fleet? That context matters.

Lastly, negotiate smart! Forklifts and reach trucks often sell 20-40% below asking price if you press a bit.

The Recertification Process

Found your winner? Nice! Before putting that used truck into service, smart warehouses pursue recertification from a qualified technician. They'll go over everything with a fine-tooth comb to ensure proper operating condition. Things like brakes, steering, leaks, electronics, etc. all get the thorough once-over.

Having this official recertification documentation gives you strong liability protection. It also establishes a new baseline for ongoing maintenance. You can operate your “new” used truck with full confidence!

Used Trucks = Solid Bargains

While flashy new equipment holds undeniable appeal, carefully-vetted pre-owned forklifts and reach trucks make fantastic, affordable alternatives. With some diligent research and negotiation, you can save many thousands while still securing the heavy hauling capabilities your warehouse needs. Why pay more for that new truck smell?