How Do I Choose the Best Used Hoist?

A used hoist can be the solution to the industrial or construction setting in need of a device that can lift and move heavy objects. Buying used will save the purchaser money, but only if he or she does a bit of research and is prepared to inspect the unit carefully. If a careful inspection is not performed, or the purchaser has not done enough research about a particular unit, the used hoist can end up costing more money than a new one. The buyer has two general options for purchasing the unit: buy from a private seller, or buy from a dealer.

Buying a used hoist from a dealer has a number of advantages. The likelihood that the unit has been carefully inspected and even refurbished is greater, and the chances that a warranty or return policy will be offered are also higher. The buyer is likely, however, to pay more for a used hoist bought from a dealer, though the extra money may be worth it if the buyer wants some more piece of mind. It is also possible that the dealer will have replacement parts in stock should the used hoist break at any time.

If the buyer chooses instead to buy from a private seller, the buyer will need to be more prepared for a visual inspection. It helps to research as much as possible about that particular hoist model; find out about any recall issues, common repairs needed, and so on. When the buyer goes to see the used hoist, he or she should look for obvious signs of wear and damage, as well as obvious signs of recent repairs such as new parts. If the hoist is a cable unit, the entire cable will need to be carefully inspected for burrs or other damage. Pulleys should be inspected, and if at all possible, the hoist should be tested out thoroughly.

Even after a careful inspection and thorough research, it is quite possible that the used hoist may need repairs shortly after purchase. It may have undergone stresses and strain the seller either did not know about or did not tell the buyer about. The buyer should therefore be prepared for such repairs by allotting some of the purchase budget to potential repairs down the road. While the initial purchase price of the used unit may be lower, the buyer will need to be prepared for additional costs he or she may not have thought about.