Choosing the right forklift starts with understanding what you're lifting and where the machine will be operating. Important factors include load weight, load dimensions, required lift height, aisle width, indoor or outdoor use, operating surface, and how many hours per day the forklift will be used.You'll also need to consider fuel type, tire type, mast configuration and any attachments required for your application.If you're unsure, we can help determine what specifications make sense for your operation. Buying the right forklift isn't just about having enough capacity—it's about finding a machine that's properly suited to the job.

For many businesses, a quality used forklift can provide excellent value compared with purchasing new equipment.The right choice depends on how frequently the forklift will be used, your application, budget and how long you plan to keep the machine. Operations running forklifts continuously may benefit from newer equipment, while businesses with moderate or occasional use can often save considerably by purchasing a properly inspected used forklift.The key is buying based on condition and application, not simply age or appearance.

There isn't one hour number that automatically makes a forklift good or bad.Hours are important, but they only tell part of the story.A well-maintained forklift with higher hours may be a much better machine than a low-hour forklift that has been abused or poorly maintained. When evaluating used equipment, we look at the entire machine—not just the number displayed on the hour meter. A propane unit that is well maintained will typically last 15,000–30,000 hours. Some will even last more than that! On electric units it breaks down between key hours and drive hours. Most electric units will have very high key hours because they often get turned on at the beginning of a shift and will stay "idle" for long periods of time. The drive hours are what really matter: most electric units have a lifespan of about 25,000 drive hours, while the key hours will usually be closer to 45,000 hours.

Used forklift prices vary considerably depending on the machine.Capacity, age, hours, condition, manufacturer, fuel type, mast configuration, lift height, tires and attachments can all affect value. Specialized machines and higher-capacity forklifts can also command significantly different prices than standard warehouse equipment.Generally, a newer standard 5,000-pound capacity unit that is well maintained and has plenty of years of life remaining will put you in the $10,000 to $16,000 price range. Prices may fluctuate depending on exact specs.

Forklift capacity should be selected based on the heaviest loads you actually need to handle—not simply the average load.Load dimensions and load center are also important. Attachments, increased lift heights and certain mast configurations can reduce a forklift's available capacity.For that reason, you shouldn't assume that a forklift rated for a certain capacity can safely handle every load of that weight in every configuration.If you provide us with your load weight, dimensions, required lift height and operating conditions, we can help determine an appropriate forklift specification for your application.For more on how load center and configuration affect rated capacity, see OSHA's appendix on powered industrial truck stability.

Each has advantages.Electric forklifts are excellent for many indoor and warehouse applications. They're quiet, produce no tailpipe emissions during operation and typically require less routine powertrain maintenance.Propane forklifts are extremely versatile and are commonly used both indoors and outdoors. Refueling is quick, making propane a popular choice for businesses that need a forklift available throughout the workday. They do require more general maintenance than an electric unit does.Diesel forklifts are generally best suited to outdoor, industrial and heavier-duty applications where power and durability are priorities.The best choice ultimately depends on where and how you'll use the machine.For a neutral technical comparison of the power types, see OSHA's overview of forklift power sources.

A proper used-forklift inspection should go well beyond checking the paint and hour meter.Important areas include the forks, carriage, mast, lift chains, rollers, cylinders, hoses, tires, steering, brakes and safety equipment. The machine should also be inspected for hydraulic, engine, transmission and differential leaks.On internal-combustion forklifts, engine and transmission operation should be evaluated. On electric forklifts, battery condition, charger compatibility and the electrical system deserve particular attention.Previous repairs and signs of heavy use can also tell you a lot about the life a forklift has had.For a baseline of what a pre-shift inspection covers, see OSHA's sample daily checklists for powered industrial trucks.

A forklift's service life depends heavily on its application and maintenance.A machine operating a few hours per week in a clean warehouse experiences a very different life than one running multiple shifts outdoors or in a demanding industrial environment.Preventive maintenance, operator habits, operating conditions and the quality of previous repairs all influence longevity.That's why we don't judge used forklifts solely by age or hours. Overall mechanical condition and how the machine has been used are often better indicators of how much useful life remains.

There are several established forklift manufacturers that produce dependable equipment, including Toyota, UniCarriers/Nissan, Komatsu, Mitsubishi and Crown, among others.However, manufacturer is only one part of choosing a used forklift.Parts availability, local service support, application, maintenance history and the condition of the individual machine are often just as important as the name on the counterweight.We work with many makes and models and focus on finding equipment that makes sense for the customer's particular application.

Yes. Simpson Forklift Sales Inc. buys, sells and trades used forklifts and material-handling equipment.If you have equipment that is no longer needed, are upgrading your fleet or want to trade toward another forklift, contact us with the make, model, serial number, approximate hours and a few current photos.We evaluate equipment individually based on its specifications, condition and current market demand.

Yes. Simpson Forklift Sales Inc. serves customers throughout Northern California, and delivery options are available depending on the equipment and destination.If you're interested in one of our forklifts, contact us with your location and we'll discuss transportation options and help coordinate getting the equipment to you.