Choosing a Refurbished Forklift: A Smart, Sustainable Investment
When it comes to material handling equipment, businesses often face a crucial decision: purchasing a brand-new forklift or opting for a refurbished one. While new forklifts come with the latest features and manufacturer warranties, refurbished forklifts present a compelling case for sustainability and cost-effectiveness without sacrificing performance.
Extending the Life of Equipment
A new forklift typically has a life expectancy of 5 to 7 years, depending on usage and maintenance. However, through expert refurbishment, that lifespan can be extended by another 5 to 7 years. Depending on the usage of the equipment, many businesses find a refurbished machine can meet productivity and sustainability goals.
The Bear Factory chooses Andersen as a like-minded business dedicated to the sustainability of equipment and impact on our environment
Reducing Landfill Waste and Conserving Resources
Refurbishing forklifts is a powerful way to prevent unnecessary waste. At Andersen Material Handling alone, over 300 trucks are salvaged annually through refurbishment. This translates to an astounding 890 tons of scrap being diverted from landfills every year. By choosing a refurbished forklift, businesses directly contribute to reducing industrial waste and promoting a circular economy.
Maximizing Operational Efficiency
Beyond waste reduction, refurbished forklifts deliver substantial productivity benefits. Rather than discarding functional machines, refurbishment restores and enhances their performance, allowing for continued operation with reliability. At Andersen Material Handling, this process results in an additional 2.2 million run hours gained each year—time that would otherwise be lost to premature equipment disposal.
Lowering Carbon Footprint
Manufacturing a new forklift requires raw materials, energy-intensive production, and transportation—all contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. By refurbishing an existing forklift, businesses reduce their carbon footprint by minimizing the demand for new manufacturing processes. This eco-friendly approach aligns with corporate sustainability goals and demonstrates a commitment to responsible environmental practices.
A Cost-Effective Alternative
Sustainability aside, choosing a refurbished forklift makes financial sense. Refurbished models are available at a lower price point compared to new units, providing businesses with high-quality equipment while saving on upfront costs. Additionally, many refurbished forklifts come with warranties and rigorous quality checks, ensuring reliability and longevity.
Conclusion
Opting for a refurbished forklift is more than just a smart business decision—it’s a step toward a more sustainable future. By extending equipment lifespans, reducing waste, and lowering carbon emissions, businesses can achieve both economic and environmental benefits. At Andersen Material Handling, the commitment to sustainability is clear, with hundreds of forklifts salvaged annually, millions of hours regained, and nearly a thousand tons of scrap prevented from entering landfills.
When considering your next forklift investment, think beyond new—choose refurbished and contribute to a greener tomorrow.