Compare the exact truck, not a market estimate
This site does not publish sale prices, dealer stock, warranty coverage, delivery dates or resale outcomes. Ask for a written quote tied to the serial number, model, year, hour-meter reading, mast, attachment, battery or engine, tyres and proposed use.
Build a like-for-like ownership comparison
Record the current hire terms, actual usage, maintenance responsibilities and operational constraints. Compare them with the purchase quote, finance terms, inspection evidence, planned maintenance, likely replacement items and disposal assumptions. Label every estimate; no saving or resale value is guaranteed.
- Use the same load, height, attachment, aisle, surface and duty-cycle specification for every quote.
- Separate purchase, finance, delivery, commissioning, attachment, charger, maintenance and warranty terms.
- Have a competent person inspect a used truck and its documents before commitment.
If the power source is still undecided, compare electric vs diesel forklifts before asking dealers to quote.
Manufacturer evidence worksheet
| Check | Evidence to obtain | Verify with |
|---|---|---|
| Identity | Model and serial number | Machine plate and manufacturer records |
| Capacity | Rated-capacity plate for the supplied mast and attachment | Manufacturer manual and competent inspection |
| History | Dated service, repair and examination records | Record issuer and inspecting competent person |
| Warranty | Written duration, coverage, exclusions and remedy | Seller and manufacturer terms |
| Support | Parts and service arrangements for the actual model | Named provider in writing |
Pre-purchase checklist for a used forklift
- Identity: reconcile serial number, model, year and seller paperwork.
- Load system: have the forks, mast, chains, hydraulics, attachment and load plate inspected.
- Power system: obtain a documented battery test or engine-condition assessment as relevant.
- Safety systems: test brakes, steering, warning devices, restraints and controls under an appropriate controlled process.
- Records: verify service, repair and examination documents with their issuers.
- Quote: confirm VAT treatment, delivery, commissioning, warranty and return terms with qualified advisers.
Questions to send with a forklift sales enquiry
Ask the seller to confirm every material statement in writing, including rated capacity in the supplied configuration, documentation, inspection status, service history, condition, warranty, exclusions, delivery and commissioning. Availability and delivery are not established until the seller confirms them for the identified truck.
Want hire rather than buy? See the forklift hire checklist. For an ownership worksheet, see the hire versus buy guide and verify every input.