5 Common Forklift Buying Mistakes to Avoid
Buying a forklift is an important investment, whether you’re purchasing your first machine or expanding an existing fleet. Choosing the right forklift can improve productivity, reduce operating costs, and keep your business running efficiently. On the other hand, selecting the wrong truck can lead to unnecessary maintenance costs, reduced performance, and lower productivity.
To help you make an informed decision, here are five of the most common forklift buying mistakes – and how to avoid them.
1. Choosing the Wrong Type of Forklift
One of the biggest mistakes buyers make is selecting a forklift that isn’t suited to the environment in which it will be used.
Different power types are designed for different applications:
- Electric forklifts are ideal for warehouses and indoor operations thanks to their quiet operation and zero on-site emissions.
- Diesel forklifts are best suited to demanding outdoor work, offering excellent power and lifting performance.
- LPG forklifts provide a versatile solution for businesses that work both indoors (with suitable ventilation) and outdoors.
Before buying, think carefully about where your forklift will spend most of its time. Choosing the correct power type will improve efficiency while helping to reduce fuel and maintenance costs.
2. Buying the Wrong Capacity or Lift Height
Many buyers focus only on lifting capacity, but lift height is just as important.
Before purchasing a forklift, consider:
- Maximum load weight
- Typical load dimensions
- Maximum lift height required
- Future handling requirements
Buying a forklift that’s too small can create safety risks and limit productivity, while purchasing one that’s much larger than necessary may increase purchase and operating costs without providing any real benefit.
3. Focusing Only on Purchase Price
While it’s understandable to work within a budget, the cheapest forklift isn’t always the best value.
Instead of looking only at the purchase price, consider the overall cost of ownership, including:
- Fuel or charging costs
- Routine servicing and maintenance
- Replacement parts
- Reliability and expected lifespan
- Downtime caused by unexpected repairs
A well-maintained used forklift from a reputable supplier often provides far greater long-term value than a cheaper machine with an unknown history.
4. Overlooking the Working Environment
Every workplace places different demands on a forklift.
Ask yourself questions such as:
- Will the forklift operate indoors, outdoors, or both?
- Are the floors smooth or uneven?
- Is there enough space to manoeuvre?
- Will the truck be used on loading bays or ramps?
- Are there low doorways or height restrictions?
Matching the forklift to its working environment will improve safety, increase efficiency, and help extend the life of the machine.
5. Buying Without Expert Advice
Forklifts vary considerably in terms of specifications, mast types, attachments, capacities, and fuel options. If you’re unfamiliar with these differences, it’s easy to buy a machine that isn’t quite right for your business.
An experienced forklift supplier can recommend the most suitable truck based on your lifting requirements, operating environment, and budget, helping you avoid costly mistakes before you buy.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right forklift isn’t just about finding the lowest price – it’s about investing in a machine that will support your business for years to come. By avoiding these common buying mistakes and taking the time to assess your requirements, you’ll be far more likely to choose a forklift that delivers reliable performance, lower running costs, and excellent value for money.
At North West Forktrucks, we stock a wide range of quality used diesel, LPG, and electric forklifts to suit businesses across the UK and worldwide. Whether you’re purchasing your first forklift or upgrading your existing fleet, our experienced team can help you find the right machine for your application.
Browse our latest stock online or get in touch today for expert advice and a no-obligation quotation.
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Browse our latest selection of used forklifts and equipment for sale at North West Forktrucks.
2019 Bolzoni MP4912B
£1,750.00
Bolzoni 20 Inch Class 3 Fork Positioner with Side Shift
2008 JCB 926RTFL
£10,450.00
Capacity: 2600 kg, Hours: 1988, Lift Height: 6500 mm, Mast: Standard
2022 JCB 30-19-2WD
£16,450.00
Capacity: 3000 kg, Hours: 5544, Lift Height: 4100 mm, Mast: Telescopic
2017 Toyota 02-8FGF30
£6,450.00
Capacity: 3000 kg, Hours: 9701, Lift Height: 4500 mm, Mast: Standard
2014 Toyota 02-8FGJF35
£6,950.00
Capacity: 3500 kg, Hours: 8802, Lift Height: 4500 mm, Mast: Standard
2016 Mitsubishi FB16CPNT
£3,950.00
Capacity: 1600 kg, Lift Height: 4750 mm, Mast: Triplex
2015 Mitsubishi FB16CPNT
£3,950.00
Capacity: 1600 kg, Lift Height: 4750 mm, Mast: Triplex
2006 CAT Lift Trucks EP20KPAC
£2,950.00
Capacity: 2000 kg, Hours: 9562, Lift Height: 6500 mm, Mast: Triplex