Print this before you buy. The papers to ask for, the parts to check, the photos a good seller sends, and the warning signs that mean walk away.
The papers to ask for first
Before you look at the machine, ask for the hours on the meter, the service history, the year, and the data plate with the model and serial number. A seller who has these ready is a seller you can trust. One who dodges them is a seller to be careful with.
- Hour meter reading, with a photo of the meter.
- Service history, even a simple record of work done.
- Year and model, so you can check parts and value.
- Data plate and serial, so you know the exact machine.
The parts to check on the machine
Check seven things: the mast and chains for smooth lift and wear, the forks for cracks and worn heels, the tyres for tread and cracking, the engine or motor for leaks and clean running, the hydraulics for a steady lift with no drift, the brakes, and the general body for damage or heavy rust.
| Part | What good looks like |
|---|---|
| Mast and chains | Lifts smooth, no jerks, chains even and not slack |
| Forks | No cracks, heels not thinned, both the same |
| Tyres | Good tread, no deep cracks or flat spots |
| Engine or motor | Starts clean, no heavy smoke, no oil pooling |
| Hydraulics | Lifts and holds, load does not slowly drop |
| Brakes and body | Brakes bite, no heavy rust or crash damage |
The photos a straight seller will always send
A good seller sends real photos of the actual unit, not a stock picture. That means the full machine from a few angles, the hour meter, the data plate, the mast and forks, the tyres, the engine bay, and the cab. If the only photos are shiny catalog images, ask for the real ones before you pay.
This is exactly how we list every machine, a full part by part set of real photos with honest notes. It is the quickest way to trust a machine you cannot stand next to. See how we show each machine.
Red flags that mean walk away
Walk away if the seller will not share the hours, hides the serial, sends only stock photos, gives a price that looks too good with no detail, or pushes you to pay fast before you can check. On cross border deals, also be careful of anyone who will not put freight and duty in writing.
Honest sellers are happy to slow down and show you everything. Pressure and missing detail are the two biggest warning signs. When in doubt, ask more questions, and only pay once you are sure of the machine and the full landed cost.
Frequently asked questions
What should I check when buying a used forklift?
Check the hours, the service history and the serial first, then inspect the mast, forks, tyres, engine, hydraulics and brakes. Ask for real photos of the actual machine, not stock pictures.
How do I know a used forklift is not a scam?
A real seller shares the hours, the serial and real photos of the exact unit, and puts freight and duty in writing. Missing detail and pressure to pay fast are the big warning signs.
Should I inspect a forklift before buying?
Yes if you can, or have someone inspect it for you. If it ships from far away, ask for a full set of real photos and a video of it running and lifting before you pay.
Written by the The Forklifter team. We arrange forklifts on rent across Pakistan every day, 2 to 10 ton, with or without an operator. The advice here is the same we give clients on the phone.