USED EQUIPMENT
The Used Forklift Equation
Balancing purchase price, condition, and operating costs
For businesses looking to add material-handling capacity while keeping upfront costs down, a used forklift can offer a lower-cost alternative to buying new. But the purchase price is only one part of the equation.
A forklift’ s condition, operating history, maintenance records, application, age, and available parts and service support can all affect its value and the cost of keeping it running.
Before buying, consider the full picture to determine whether the equipment fits the job and makes financial sense for the operation.
Application The first question should be how the forklift will be used.
Bobcat’ s“ Used Forklifts: The Dirty Truth” says businesses operating a forklift fewer than 40 hours per week could be good candidates for used equipment. It also identifies businesses with limited funds for a new truck, or those that do not want to finance a new forklift, as potential candidates for used equipment.
The application itself also matters. Bobcat advises companies that need lifting equipment to operate outside to consider new equipment and says used equipment should not be purchased for construction-site work.
The type of forklift required will also affect the price. In the“ New Forklift vs. Used Forklift” article, CLARK Material Handling Company notes that a standard sit-down warehouse truck is generally less expensive than a specialized narrowaisle model. Larger forklifts and those with higher weight capacities also typically cost more.
Features and attachments can also add to the cost. Specialized forks, poles, side-shifters, ergonomic features, and advanced safety systems affect forklift prices.
Hours and History Forklifts are generally evaluated by operating hours rather than miles, making the hour meter an important part of the buying process.
Bobcat recommends understanding what constitutes typical hours for the type of used forklift being considered. Hours alone do not tell the whole story.
Toyota Material Handling Solutions recommends asking how many hours the forklift operated each day and whether it experienced extended periods of heavy use. The company says this information can provide insight into potential wear and tear.
It is also important to understand where and how the forklift was used.
Toyota suggests asking about the machine’ s previous applications and operating environments. For
16 l September-October 2026