Skip to content
When a business identifies it is in need of material handling equipment to improve productivity and efficiency for their business operations, choosing the right equipment is critical. Forklifts play a vital role across various industries, enabling seamless material handling and logistical tasks. If you’re evaluating equipment options for your facility, exploring used forklifts from Gregory Poole Lift Systems could be a practical solution—helping you manage costs while still meeting the performance and reliability needs of your operation. Here are a few considerations to keep in mind when deciding whether used equipment is the right fit for your operation.
Benefits of Used Forklift
- Extend Buying Power
Used forklifts cost less. This initial cost advantage frees up capital that can be redirected towards other critical business needs, such as expanding the workforce, investing in marketing efforts, or modernizing other equipment. Used equipment put into service in 2025 also meets Section 179 requirements for tax savings.
- Get Equipment Faster
Time is often a crucial factor in business operations. Used forklifts are ready to use, avoiding long lead time and delays tied to manufacturing and delivery.
- Proven Performance and Reliability
Many used forklifts come with a proven track record of performance, durability, and reliability. By researching the history of a particular model and reviewing customer feedback, businesses can make informed decisions about the suitability of a used forklift for their operational requirements.
- Diverse Selection
The used forklift market offers a diverse range of make and models, catering to various operational requirements and preferences. This variety allows businesses to choose a forklift that aligns precisely with their material handling needs.
- Lower Insurance Costs
Insurance premiums for used equipment are generally lower than for new machinery. This ongoing cost advantage can make a significant difference in the long-term operational expenses of a business. Lower insurance costs contribute to a more favorable cost structure and positively impact the bottom line.
- Faster Return on Investment
Lower upfront costs mean businesses can recoup their investment quicker. With a reduced financial burden, the time it takes for the accumulated operational benefits to offset the initial cost is often shorter, allowing businesses to enjoy the advantages of their investment more quickly.
- Adaptability and Flexibility
Used forklifts offer a level of adaptability and flexibility that can be particularly advantageous for businesses facing fluctuating demand or evolving operational requirements. As operational needs change, having a fleet of used forklifts with different capabilities and features allows businesses to tailor their equipment choices to match current demands without committing to the high costs associated with purchasing new equipment.
- Test Before You Invest
Choosing used forklifts provides an opportunity for businesses to evaluate the long-term performance of specific models before investing in new equipment. By purchasing a used forklift of a particular brand or model, businesses can assess its performance, maintenance requirements, and suitability for their operations. This knowledge can inform future decisions about equipment upgrades or replacements.
- Simplified Paperwork
The process of acquiring new equipment often involves extensive paperwork and documentation related to warranties, certifications, and compliance. With used forklifts, paperwork and documentation might be less cumbersome, streamlining the acquisition process and enabling businesses to focus more on operational implementation.
- Supports Sustainability
In an era of increased environmental awareness, sustainability considerations play a significant role in business decisions. Opting for used forklifts aligns with sustainability goals by extending the lifespan of existing equipment. This choice reduces the demand for new manufacturing, conserves resources, and minimizes the carbon footprint associated with production.
When to Consider New Forklifts
While used forklifts offer numerous benefits, there are scenarios where investing in new forklifts might be the better choice:
- Heavy Usage: If your forklift clocks four or more hours per day, that’s considered “heavy use.” Heavy usage isn’t a good fit for used forklifts — they’ll get used up pretty quickly.
- Unusual Mast Requirements: If you need a quad or a swing mast, it might be faster to order a new forklift from the factory than wait for a decent used forklift to become available.
- Latest Technology: New forklifts often have features that can reduce downtime, improve operator productivity, and minimize injuries.
- Extended Warranty: Most new forklifts come with a 12-month warranty, but you can often extend that up to three years.
- Trade-In Plans: If you’re planning on trading in your truck after a few years, consider buying new and investing in a maintenance plan.
Conclusion
Now that you know some of the considerations of both new and used forklifts, you can make an informed decision. If you’ve decided on a used forklift, please consider Gregory Poole Lift Systems. We have a large selection of high-quality used forklifts, electric lift trucks, and other material handling equipment. Every used forklift we offer receives a thorough inspection from a factory-certified technician and comes with a warranty.
Choosing the right forklift for your business is more than just a cost-saving measure; it’s a strategic decision that can positively impact various aspects of your operations. From financial considerations to operational efficiency and environmental responsibility, the benefits of choosing used forklifts are compelling.
If you are still weighing your options on used vs new lift equipment, check out this article we’ve published on this topic here.
