They are considered indestructible and play an existential role in warehouses and in many industrial sectors. We are talking about manual pallet trucks, which allow you to transport heavy loads without the need for a driver's license or an operator's license. But when does it make sense to buy a second-hand pallet truck?
"When buying a used car, you should definitely prefer well-known brands, as the availability of original spare parts is usually ensured for many years after purchase," explained Michael Seibold, Director Pallit Italy. So yes, but please only buy used if the manufacturer is not completely unknown.
The manual pallet truck is irreplaceable
Whether in a laboratory or warehouse, commercial or industrial, the manual pallet truck is indispensable for short-distance transport. Its robustness and ease of use increase warehouse productivity and reduce operating costs. As an alternative to the traditional forklift, which cannot be used without a forklift license, the manual pallet truck is an important tool for fast and efficient warehouse operations.
Pallet trucks are mostly made of steel; electronics and mechanics can be completely eliminated. Thanks to their simple manufacturing method using sturdy materials, a pallet truck is difficult to destroy. However, the design can still vary, from the length of the forks to the material used and the presence of a weighing system for even more precise load handling.
The hand pallet truck is also popular on the second-hand market
Dispose of products because they have a defect? Only reluctantly, and this also applies to the classic pallet truck. But does a repair or a second-hand purchase always make sense?
In some cases, yes! For example, if the pallet truck is a branded product and there are numerous spare parts on the market. In this case, buying used is worthwhile, as it saves money and conserves resources at the same time. However, a repair may also be advisable if the cost doesn't exceed €100 and the vehicle is of good quality.
However, it often turns out that mistakes are made when purchasing. The low-cost model offered by DIY stores is certainly a positive when purchasing because it allows you to save money. However, the often inferior workmanship means that the pallet truck only provides short-term relief, but later causes problems with defects and the lack of adequate after-sales service.
Brand Decides Quality When Buying Used Machinery
If you go looking for used hand pallet trucks, you will find a great offer. Often it is especially the cheap deals that seem tempting and entice you to buy. However, you should definitely make sure that you only buy a quality product from a high-quality brand to actually benefit from your second-hand purchase in the long term.
Most commonly, used manual pallet trucks are sold, but there are also electric models where the forks are motorized. Especially with electric models, it's even more important to pay close attention to the offer and not buy used in the heat of the moment because the offer was too tempting. If the electronics need repair, you need customer service that can help you with spare parts.
These are the important features when purchasing a manual pallet truck
If you have decided on a manual pallet truck, you need to know some important criteria. This is how you can recognize a high-quality product that can actually make your work easier in the laboratory and warehouse.
The frame material is of great importance. Ideally, stainless steel was used, as these models can be used in humid regions or for transport in the food industry. The cold- and hot-dip galvanized material, along with high-quality, waterproof wheels and ball bearings, ensure the pallet truck is durable and virtually indestructible.
The type of tires plays a decisive role in transportation. Pay attention to the surface of your warehouse and that the tires are compatible with it. There are different types of tires, from rubber to nylon to hard rubber with a special grip.
Lifting height also plays a role when purchasing. Models between 200 mm and 800 mm are common, depending on the application. The same applies to fork length, which varies between 800 mm and 1150 mm. When it comes to load capacity, you should first consider the goods you're transporting. Traditional pallet trucks have an average load capacity of 1 to 3,5 tons!
Buying second hand promises these benefits
There are always advantages to buying a high-quality product at a good price. However, buying it under the counter and from unknown sellers is less advantageous. Professional second-hand dealers specialize in, among other things, selling used pallet trucks and are there to provide expertise and advice. Seemingly bargain prices from private sellers, on the other hand, are not recommended because you never know how the sale occurred. This is equally true for other products.
The pallet truck may have been stolen, have defects not mentioned when purchased, and no longer function properly. With a reputable second-hand dealer, you can be sure of purchasing a durable, high-quality product.
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