Look for a popular size and model from a manufacturer with a proven track record and strong market position. A low-use truck will not be replaced for a long time, but will need occasional service. Make sure parts and local expertise are available.

Gasoline is a sturdy performer, but creates emissions that are a concern for indoor use. Some companies are trying to eliminate its use on the site for environmental and safety reasons. Insurance carriers may also have guidelines for fuel handling. Diesel fuel carries many of the same concerns, and is only used in larger truck capacities.
Propane is a better choice for indoor use, but an extra tank and refueling station are required.
Compressed natural gas is a more recent option, but the refueling station is even more expensive.
Electric lift trucks are usually the best inside choice, but require a charger and charging station. A plant with a lot of ramps may find electrics running out of power before the shift is over.
Job specifications and plant environmental concerns usually dictate the fuel choices to consider.

This type of mast uses two small lift cylinders, one on each side, instead of one large cylinder in the middle. The high-visibility mast is standard on many newer models, but you may be paying a premium for a feature you do not need to perform the assigned tasks.

Most users get rid of their lift trucks and put them on the used market when the vehicles reach their "economic service life." A truck removed from a high-use application may have many years of low-use life left. Check the maintenance record of the truck, or if not available, have the vehicle checked over by a qualified service technician.

A three-stage is necessary only if you are reaching very high. One or two stages are probably enough, but take a three if you can get it without paying extra.

This feature is important for stacking or unstacking pallets inside a truck. More is better.

Don't accept scored or scratched cylinders. They are expensive to repair. Check cylinders for leaks around the seals.

Capacity is often based on a load centered on the forks 24 in. from the backrest, but the dimension could vary for different sized lift trucks. Vehicles should be rated at the same load center to determine comparable capacity information.

A family of trucks with various capacities is often built on the same frame size, with the difference being the amount of counterweight or an extra inch or so of length. This little bit of extra length could transfer into a larger turning radius that cannot negotiate through the plant aisles.

Cushion tires are solid rubber, good for smooth surfacesindoors, and do not go flat. Pneumatic tires are better for outside and rough surfaces.

The vehicle should include an overhead guard, safety light, fire extinguisher, working horn, and parking brake.

Some engine wear is expected, but don't take too much.
Does it run rough? Does it produce white or black smoke? Does it make "spitting" noises out of the exhaust? Does the engine make questionable noises, such as a dull thud or sharp whack?
Consider a compression check. Remove the spark plug, hold the throttle wide open, and crank the engine a few times while a compression gauge is held in each spark plug hole. The reading from the lowest cylinder should be within 80% of the highest.
Examine the spark plugs while they are out. Unless new, they should be a light-to-medium tan. Black and sooty is an indication of a problem.

The pedal should be firm, not spongy. Look behind each wheel for signs of brake fluid leakage. The truck shouldn't pull when the brakes are applied, or make squealing or scraping noises when stopping.

Drive the lift truck up an incline. There should be no signs of slippage.

The truck should be able to creep forward, backward, and lift up or down gently, carefully, and in small increments. Controls should have an easy touch; not jerky or with sudden large movements.

Side shifters add cost, and slightly derate the lifting capacity. Does your application require this function?

First impressions are important. Has the truck been repainted and serviced?

Remember to buy the truck you need. A bargain that doesn't meet your specifications is not a bargain, but a waste of money.