Buying a used or refurbished forklift can be a smart move for your business. You gain access to machines that have already proven themselves in real-world applications and even higher-end models that are now within your budget. Plus, you get your hands on a unit much faster than waiting for a brand-new order to process and ship.
Unfortunately, not all dealerships give you value. If you’re not careful, you might end up spending more on repairs and parts than you saved up front.
Let us walk you through everything you should check to ensure you get the best deal from your purchase.
Straight, Solid Forks
The forks are the workhorses of forklifts, carrying the load and taking the most direct stress. Search for straight and consistent thickness, especially near the heel, where forks curve upward.
A quality refurbished forklift will have forks free of cracks, deep gouges, or visible fatigue, proving that it can handle its rated capacity without compromise.
Healthy, Intact Lift Chains
Lift chains are under constant tension and must be in excellent condition, with no signs of rusting or stretching! It’s important to check if all pins are complete, too.
Balanced chains are essential for preventing dangerous drops and accidents. So, ask if the dealer has replaced or serviced them. Choose a machine that passes load tests.
A Well-Maintained, Tested Battery
Keep in mind that the battery is a major part of your investment. When evaluating refurbished units, select those with good water levels and a solid charge. Corrosion on the terminals? Red flag.
Confirm how old the battery is before looking in. Remember, a new source of power costs several thousand dollars; you do not want to inherit that expense.
A reputable refurbisher will either install a newer battery or provide a full report on the current one’s condition.
A Strong, Reliable Engine
Engine health is critical. An engine should run without excessive smoke, grinding noises, or lagging power. Scan the oil and coolant levels and, if possible, request documentation.
A compression test or mechanic’s inspection goes a long way in confirming the engine’s shape and any woes under the hood.
A Smooth-Operating Mast and Hydraulic System
The mast is central to lifting and lowering and must operate fluidly. When test-driving, aim for consistent motion and listen for any abnormal noises. Then, check the hydraulic lines and cylinders. There should be no leaking.
Premium refurbished forklifts will have reconditioned or replaced components as needed. Go for a unit with a previous owner and a refurbisher who have not skipped maintenance concerns.
Durable, Balanced Tires
Tires often get overlooked, but they matter, especially when operating on rough surfaces. Pneumatic tires must be free from punctures and bulges, while cushion tires should not be cracked or worn down to the rim. Note that uneven tire abrasion hints at alignment or suspension problems in the unit’s undercarriage.
A refurbished forklift worth buying will have tires that are either new or in excellent used condition.
Fully Functional Safety Features
How are the seatbelts, horns, lights, backup alarm, overheard guards, and other safety features? You want them to be in proper working order, as they are not optional accessories. These features are legal and operational requirements!
Trustworthy refurbishers will verify that systems meet regulatory standards, helping you prioritize the safety your operators deserve.
Structurally Sound Frame and Components
Cosmetic imperfections are acceptable, but deeper structural damage is another story. Consider only machines without dents, fractures, or bends anywhere.
A quality refurbishment resolves all these issues. If repairs were made, ask for records or before-and-after photos.
What Sets Industrial Parts and Service Apart
Do not settle for appearances alone when buying refurbished forklifts. Take the time to assess critical parts, and choose the right partner for a seamless transaction. The difference is really in the details and the dealer.
At Industrial Parts and Service, we do not believe in surface-level fixes. Every refurbished forklift we sell has gone through a complete inspection and repair process. We go beyond fresh coats of paint!
Our team replaces or rebuilds anything that is worn or broken. Rest assured, the equipment you receive is as close to new as possible, cosmetically and mechanically.
To give you even more peace of mind, we back machines with a 30-day major parts warranty. That is how confident we are in our products and services. We stand behind our work and care about your long-term success.
View Our Inventory of Refurbished Forklifts
Industrial Parts and Service proudly offers a large selection of used units from the most trusted manufacturers. Our inventory bring a variety of makes and models, all ready to perform.
Let us help you evaluate your requirements and match you with the perfect equipment. Count on our team for the attention to detail every purchase demands!
You could be expanding your fleet or replacing an old machine; walk away with a refurbished forklift that fits your load and budget. Call Industrial Parts and Service at (330) 966-5025 or reach out online.
