Buyer Guide

Forklifts / Lift Trucks Buyer Guide

Forklifts and lift trucks are the backbone of material handling, indispensable for lifting, stacking, and transporting goods within warehouses, distribution centers, construction sites, and manufacturing facilities. These versatile machines are primarily sought after by logistics companies, retailers, industrial operations, and any business requiring efficient vertical and horizontal movement of palletized or heavy loads.

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Fast facts

Used typical price ranges: Class I-V electric/internal combustion can be $8,000 - $45,000, specialized reach trucks or telehandlers $25,000 - $70,000+ depending on age and condition.
Operating weight ranges: From 3,000 lbs (small electric pallet jacks) to over 20,000 lbs (heavy-duty IC pneumatic tire forklifts), not including load.
Typical hours-of-life: 10,000-15,000 hours for well-maintained IC engines; electric units often see 20,000+ hours with battery replacements.
Fuel usage: IC forklifts consume 1-2 gallons/hour (LPG/diesel); electric models run 6-8 hours on a full charge, taking 8-12 hours to recharge.
Common attachments: Fork extensions, sideshifters, rotators, carton clamps, push/pull attachments, carpet poles, personnel baskets.
Jobsite uses: Loading/unloading trailers, stocking shelves, order picking, transporting materials across a facility, lifting construction supplies.

What to look for

1Inspect forks for bends, cracks, or uneven wear; ensure the heel is not worn beyond 10% of its original thickness.
2Check hydraulic cylinders (lift, tilt, side-shift) for leaks, scoring, or bent rods, and listen for unusual noises during operation.
3Examine mast channels for excessive play, cracks in welds, and smooth operation of rollers; look for any binding or jerky movements.
4Assess tire condition: Solid pneumatics for chunks/tears, cushion tires for flat spots or debonding; proper inflation on pneumatic types.
5Look for excessive smoke from the exhaust (IC engines) indicating engine wear or fuel issues; check for unusual engine noises.
6Verify brake functionality – firm pedal, no pulling to one side; test parking brake engagement.
7Hour meter red flags: Inoperable meters, or suspiciously low hours for an older machine can indicate tampering or extensive downtime.
8Request service history records; consistent maintenance is a strong indicator of machine longevity and care.
9Test all safety features: seatbelt, horn, lights, backup alarm, and ensure mast chain guards are present and intact.
10Check the battery compartment for corrosion on electric units; inspect battery cells for proper water levels and clean terminals.

Best makes & models

Toyota

Core IC Pneumatic, Electric Counterbalanced, Reach Trucks

Consistently lauded for reliability, strong dealer network, and ergonomic designs that improve operator comfort and productivity.

Hyster-Yale

Hyster XT/UT series, Yale GP/ERP series

Offers a broad range of robust, heavy-duty machines known for their durability in demanding applications and strong parts availability.

Crown

FC Series, SC Series, RR Series Reach Trucks

Specializes in electric material handling equipment, recognized for innovative design, energy efficiency, and advanced operator features.

Mitsubishi Logisnext Americas (Cat Lift Trucks, Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks)

Cat P/DP Series, Mitsubishi FBC Series

Provides a comprehensive lineup known for fuel efficiency, reliability, and ease of service, appealing to a wide range of budgets.

Kalmar

Essential/ContChamp series (Heavy Lift)

A leader in heavy-duty and specialized port handling equipment, valued for extreme reliability and capacity in tough environments.

Models with known issues

Commonly-reported issues from operators and technicians. Every machine varies — always inspect before you buy.

Some Older Makes/Models Specific older imported models from less common manufacturers

Industry chatter sometimes points to difficulties sourcing parts for certain older, less common imported models, leading to extended downtime.

Certain Electric Models (Pre-2010) Various electric models from some manufacturers

There have been reports of high battery replacement costs and obsolescence issues for control boards on some pre-2010 electric units, impacting long-term viability.

LPG/Gasoline Forklifts (Certain Tier 3/4 Interim years) Specific engine model years around 2008-2014 from various brands

Some discussions suggest certain engine models from this era, adapting to new emissions standards, had more frequent sensor and exhaust system issues.

Frequently asked questions

What's a reasonable price for a used, good condition internal combustion forklift?

For a 5,000-8,000 lb capacity IC forklift in good working order with 8,000-12,000 hours, expect to pay between $15,000 and $28,000, depending on age and features.

How many hours on a forklift is too many?

While 10,000-15,000 hours is typical for an IC engine before major overhauls, the total hours are less critical than consistent maintenance and documented service history.

What are common financing options for buying used forklifts?

Standard options include equipment loans from banks or specialized lenders, lease-to-own programs, or in-house financing directly from larger dealerships.

How do I arrange shipping for a used forklift?

Most dealers can arrange shipping, or you can use a freight broker specializing in heavy equipment; always get a detailed quote that includes insurance.

Are there warranties available for used forklifts?

Some reputable dealers offer limited warranties on certified used equipment, typically covering major components for 30-90 days, or extended service contracts for a fee.

What factors impact the resale value of a forklift?

Key factors include make/model reputation, hours, overall condition, maintenance records, remaining tire life, and the presence of popular attachments like a side-shifter.