Mast, chains and forks
Raise and lower the mast fully and watch the lift chains for stretch and even tension, and the rollers for smooth travel. Watch for the mast drifting down under load. Inspect the forks themselves for wear, cracks and thinning at the heel (where the blade meets the shank), worn or cracked forks are a safety item and should be replaced.
Hydraulics and fuel type
Test lift, tilt and any side-shift for leaks and drift. Fuel type drives cost: on LP or diesel forklifts, check the engine and hours the usual way; on electric forklifts, the battery is the big-ticket item, so ask for its age and a load or charge-cycle test, a tired traction battery is expensive to replace.
Tires, capacity and value
Check the tires (cushion tires for smooth indoor floors, pneumatic for outdoor and rough ground) for wear. Confirm the rated capacity on the data plate matches what you need to lift, a missing or illegible capacity plate is a red flag. Value is driven by hours, capacity, mast type and height, fuel type, and tire condition. See real-sales values by model on the forklift value guide.
Checking a specific forklift? Run its serial through MachVerity for identity, a value from real sales, and a due-diligence checklist.
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Frequently asked
Should I buy an electric or LP/diesel forklift?
Electric forklifts are cleaner and cheaper to run but the traction battery is a major cost, so test its health. LP and diesel forklifts cost less up front and suit outdoor or heavy-duty use. Match the fuel type to where and how you will use it.
What is high hours on a used forklift?
Condition matters more than the meter. Check the mast, chains, forks and hydraulics, and on electric units the battery, before judging by hours alone.
How do I read a forklift capacity plate?
The data plate lists the rated lifting capacity, often at a given load center and lift height. Confirm it matches your load. A missing, altered or illegible plate is a serious red flag.