What Does “Reconditioned Forklift” Actually Mean? (The ACE Standard) 

If you are getting ready to buy another forklift to add to your fleet, then you might be wondering if a reconditioned forklift is a good choice. While most business owners want to buy new equipment for their fleets, there are also budget restrictions that often lead to used or reconditioned purchases instead. 

A reconditioned forklift has been through a thorough inspection, repair work, and testing to make sure that it is in good working condition. These machines are dependable and ready to be used right away.  

But there is one important thing to understand about reconditioned forklift standards: there are no rules that define this label. So, you need to be sure that you are purchasing the truck from a dealer you can trust. One dealer might have a reconditioned unit that is in great condition, while another dealer is simply selling a trade-in that has a fresh coat of paint. 

What is the Difference Between a Reconditioned vs Used Forklift? 

Some people make the mistake of assuming that “reconditioned” and “used” are two words for the same type of forklift. But there are actually differences between a reconditioned forklift vs. a used forklift: 

• Used Forklift: This equipment is usually in a similar condition to how it arrived. Most likely, a safety check was done, and the forklift was cleaned before it was put on the floor to sell. 

• Reconditioned Forklift: When reconditioning has been done, it means that more thorough inspections and repairs were done before the sale. For example, the systems were inspected, documented, and repaired to ensure the forklift is in the best condition possible. 

Keep in mind that there is no government agency or industry body that regulates the term “reconditioned.” So, when a forklift is being sold with this label, it’s important to ask questions about the dealer’s process for inspections and repairs. Ask for documentation about the type of work that was done on the forklift before the sale. 

A trusted forklift dealer will have detailed information about the forklift’s maintenance and repair history, such as how many hours are on the meter, how the forklift was used previously, and any attachments that were used on the machine.  

These details are helpful for your decision because you can get a feel for how hard the forklift was used previously. There is a big difference in the wear and tear on a forklift that was working in a yard vs. one that only operated in indoor warehouse conditions. 

The Label Isn’t as Important as the Documentation 

There are many other labels that fall in the same category and are often used interchangeably:  

• Reconditioned 

• Refurbished 

• Rebuilt 

• Remanufactured 

• Certified pre-owned 

Typically, phrases such as rebuilt and remanufactured mean that the forklift had a more intensive teardown. And “certified” often indicates that the dealer has a checklist that needed to be passed before sale. But there are no legal definitions for any of these phrases. 

Instead of trying to decipher what refurbished forklift means, it’s better to ignore the label and ask direct questions to learn more about the types of repairs and servicing the forklift has received. Two forklifts with the same label can be in very different conditions, which is why you need information about the repair history. 

What Proper Forklift Reconditioning Includes 

There are a few common steps that should be addressed for a certified reconditioned forklift: 

• Full Inspection: Ask the dealer whether a full inspection has been completed, including the engine, transmission, hydraulics, mast, brakes, steering, and electrical system. 

• Parts Replacement: Any worn parts should be replaced. Common replacements include the tires, hoses, chains, filters, and fluids. It’s also common to add a fresh coat of paint to a reconditioned forklift, but this is just for aesthetics (and not performance). 

• Performance Testing: Before being sold, the forklift needs to be tested for all load and operational functions. There should be documentation of the testing. 

• Safety Systems: All safety systems should go through a thorough inspection, including the lights, horn, seat switch, backup alarms, and parking brake. 

• Fluids and Filters: It’s common to replace both the fluids and filters before sale.  

• Brakes and Steering: Ask whether the brakes and steering functions were tested and adjusted as part of the maintenance. 

Red Flags and Questions to Ask Before You Buy a Reconditioned Forklift 

The most important thing that you can do is have a thorough conversation with the dealer to learn more about the condition of the forklift and the servicing that has been done on the machine. This information will help you determine whether the forklift is in the right condition for your job. 

Common warning signs to watch out for include: 

• A layer of fresh paint over worn parts 

• There is no documentation, such as an inspection record or parts list 

• No warranty coverage is offered for the forklift 

• The seller doesn’t want you to test the truck before the purchase  

Always ask to test drive the forklift when it is carrying a load. Also, consider bringing in your own technician for a second opinion about the forklift’s condition. 

FAQs 

Is a certified reconditioned forklift reliable for daily use? 

With the right repairs and maintenance, a reconditioned forklift can offer years of reliable service, but it depends on the way the forklift was used previously and how well it was maintained. Make sure that you are looking at the total cost and not just the sticker price. 

Does a reconditioned forklift come with a warranty? 

Most reputable forklift dealers offer warranty coverage. If something goes wrong, then repair and maintenance services are included in the sale price. 

What should I ask a dealer before buying a reconditioned forklift? 

Ask detailed questions about how the forklift was used previously, what parts were replaced, and who completed the maintenance and repair work. Also, request to see the maintenance records and make sure to have warranty coverage in writing. 

A Trusted Source for Reconditioned Forklifts in Irving, Dallas, and Fort Worth 

For more information about buying a reconditioned forklift, reach out to our experienced team at ACE Equipment. We offer a full range of services, including sales, rentals, repairs, parts, and more. We stand behind the equipment that we sell, and we’re here to help you maintain an ideal fleet for your unique needs. Contact us today for personalized recommendations.