Is a used forklift right for our business?
Is a used forklift right for our business?
For many businesses, purchasing a forklift is a necessary investment to ensure that their logistics operations run smoothly. At the same time, new forklifts are often expensive and are frequently designed to handle loads that far exceed what most warehouses actually require. For companies with normal workflow, it may be wise to ask, “Do we need to buy a new forklift, or would a used one suffice?”
In our experience, most forklifts in warehouses are used regularly but not continuously. Workloads can vary over time, and needs can change. It is under these circumstances that used forklifts are becoming an increasingly viable alternative to buying new ones.
When is it a good idea to buy a used forklift?
A used forklift is often a good choice when the forklift is used daily but isn’t in operation every minute of the day. In warehouses where the forklift operates for several hours a day but not around the clock, efficiency is rarely determined by the latest technology or maximum capacity.
Used equipment is also a good option when a business is undergoing changes, such as growth, renovation, or relocation. In such cases, it may be a sensible decision not to tie up capital in a forklift until needs have stabilized.
How much does a new forklift cost compared to a used one?
A new forklift usually means a higher purchase price, longer delivery times, and higher costs. A used forklift generally costs much less and is often available immediately. For many companies, this means a lower investment risk and a faster return on investment without compromising the forklift’s performance.
Specific pricing examples from real-world cases. See the difference between a new and a used forklift!
To put this difference into perspective, we’ve compiled a few examples of what comparable new and used forklifts actually cost.
Modell | Model year | Batteries & Equipment | Price of a new forklift | Price for a used forklift |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Toyota Traigo 24 | 2026 | Lead-acid, standard | Approx. 18 500 EUR | Approx. 7 700 EUR |
Linde E16 | 2026 | Lead-acid, standard | Approx. 33 500 EUR | Approx. 19 500 EUR |
Jungheinrich EFG BC 320 | 2026 | Lead-acid, standard | Approx. 30 500 EUR | Approx. 14 900 EUR |
Do we need to buy a new forklift, or will a used forklift be sufficent?
To determine whether a used forklift will be sufficent, you should consider its actual usage. How often is the forklift used? What loads does it handle? In our experience, the requirements are often more practical than technical. In that case, a used forklift is an excellent choice.
Advantages and risks of buying a used forklift
The most obvious advantage of buying a used forklift is the lower initial investment and reduced business risk. Decisions can be made more quickly and at an earlier stage.
As with all used equipment, there are risks, primarily related to wear and tear and the machine’s history. However, these risks are significantly reduced when the forklift has undergone a technical inspection, has a clearly documented service history, and comes with a warranty upon purchase.
Where can you buy a used forklift?
Once you’ve decided to buy used, the next question is where to buy the forklift. The choice of where to buy not only affects the price but also the level of risk and how secure the transaction will be over time. The differences between the options are often greater than you might initially think. Here are three options for buying a used forklift:
Buy a used forklift through Relevator
Buying a forklift through Relevator offers a structured and secure way to purchase used equipment. With us, buying used isn’t a gamble—it’s a deliberate alternative to buying new.
Relevator offers:
- good documentation so that the condition and history are clear
- a wide selection of used forklifts tailored to real-world warehouse needs
- Fixed prices for used items, with no uncertain bidding
- option to purchase an extended warranty for added peace of mind
Relevator offers both a wide selection and a clear business model when it comes to selling used forklifts. For companies that prioritize reliability, safety, and investment costs, Relevator is the most well-thought-out option.
Buy a used forklift from a local dealer
A local forklift dealer is often seen as a safe choice, primarily because of their strong local presence. This can be an advantage for companies that value in-person contact. At the same time, the selection is often limited. Prices for used forklifts can also be quite high.
Buying a used forklift through auction sites
Auction sites often attract buyers with low prices but carry by far the highest risk. Documentation is often sparse, the final price is difficult to predict, and warranties are generally not included. Furthermore, there is little local support. The buyer bears the entire risk regarding condition, functionality, and any problems that may arise in the future. This is often an uncertain and, in the long run, expensive option.
The difference between the options essentially comes down to how much uncertainty one is willing to accept:
- Auction sites involve little oversight and high risk
- Local retailers offer a certain degree of reliability, but at the cost of high prices and a limited selection
- Relevator combines product information, inventory, and pricing in a way that makes buying used a strategically sound decision
Would you like to know more about whether a used forklift is the right choice for you?
At Relevator, we help companies assess usage, capacity requirements, and investment levels before you make your decision. We start with how the forklift will actually be used in your operations, not with standard solutions or maximum capacity. Our starting point is always actual usage and long-term, sustainable decisions. Call or email us today!