Two factors to consider before purchasing a forklift

Forklifts play a crucial role in many construction projects. Here are two important factors which should be taken into consideration before buying this type of equipment:

The equipment's weight-bearing capacity

Not all forklifts are equal; as such, it's crucial to ensure that the one that you buy meets your specific requirements. For example, if you intend to use the forklift for a construction project which will involve lifting and transporting extremely heavy building materials, you should check the maximum load-bearing figures of the forklift you're thinking about buying. Some small models can only hold a tenth of the weight that larger models can.

Choosing one which cannot bear the weight of the items you need to lift and transport could cause major issues during your construction project; the forklift might, for example, end up breaking off whilst the vehicle is being used, which could result in its operator being injured and the materials it is carrying being destroyed.

If you're unsure of the precise weights of the materials that will be used during your construction project, it's best to choose a forklift with a slighter higher load-bearing capacity that you think you will need. Whilst this will result in higher upfront costs, it could save you a lot of money later down the line, by preventing forklift breakdowns, injuries and damage to building materials.

New vs. Second Hand

When looking for a forklift for sale, you'll need to decide whether to buy a new one or used one.

The main advantage associated with buying a brand new piece of equipment is that it will require minimal maintenance and repair work, which will save you both time and money in the long run. However, if your budget for your construction project is quite tight and the upfront costs associated with buying a new forklift are off-putting, then it might be worth considering a used piece of equipment instead.

If you decide to opt for a second-hand forklift, you must be prepared to do plenty of research to ensure that the machine you end up buying is in good condition. You'll need to request a maintenance log book from the previous owner, to find out what kind of repairs have been performed on the equipment over the years. You'll also have to carry out a thorough visual inspection to check for mechanical or electrical faults (if you are not familiar with heavy construction equipment, you may need to hire a mechanic to do this inspection on your behalf).

Additionally, if the forklift model is quite old, you should also check that spare parts for it are still available for purchase, as you may need to replace a few of the equipment's components at some point. Contact a company that has a forklift for sale for more information and assistance.