Mast wear, transmission issues, and hydraulic problems hide easily on forklifts. Get independent verification before you buy.
Forklifts run thousands of hours in demanding environments — warehouses, lumberyards, construction sites. That constant lifting and maneuvering wears out masts, hydraulics, and drivetrains. A fresh coat of paint won't fix what's worn inside.
Worn mast channels, rollers, and lift chains cause jerky operation and safety hazards. Mast rebuilds run $4,000–$12,000.
Slipping, harsh shifts, and loss of power in powershift or hydrostatic transmissions. Rebuilds cost $5,000–$15,000.
Lift, tilt, and side-shift cylinders develop internal leaks. Repairs range $1,500–$5,000 per cylinder.
Worn engines, faulty LPG regulators, and fuel system problems. Repairs range $2,000–$10,000.
Worn steering axle components, orbitrol valves, and cylinders. Repairs cost $2,000–$8,000.
Bent forks, worn fork hooks, and damaged carriages create safety risks. Replacement costs $1,000–$4,000.
This is what repairs cost when issues go undetected. Our inspection is just $800.
Forklift Inspection Checklist
Our inspectors perform a thorough forklift evaluation — checking mast condition, drivetrain, hydraulics, and all safety systems. We test under load and document everything.
Your Inspection Report Includes
25-35 high-resolution photos covering mast assembly, forks, hydraulic cylinders, tires, engine/motor compartment, operator station, and any problem areas found.
Written summary with Good/Fair/Poor ratings for each major system, fork thickness measurements, chain stretch assessment, and clear identification of issues.
Video footage of the forklift operating — lifting, tilting, mast staging, and driving. See and hear exactly how the machine performs.
Simple 3-Step Process
Send us the forklift details (make, model, serial number) and location. We coordinate directly with the seller to schedule the inspection.
Our inspector performs a thorough evaluation — testing mast function, drivetrain, and hydraulics while documenting everything with photos and video.
Receive your detailed inspection report via email within 24 hours. Make an informed buying decision with the facts in hand.
Forklift Inspection FAQs
Most forklift inspections take 1.5-2.5 hours depending on lift capacity and configuration. Large forklifts or units with multiple attachments may take longer.
We inspect all major brands including Toyota, Hyster, Yale, Crown, CAT, Komatsu, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Raymond, and Clark. IC and electric models of all capacities.
Yes. For electric forklifts, we evaluate the drive and pump motors, controller, and battery condition including cell voltage readings when accessible.
Yes. We measure fork thickness at the heel and compare to original specifications. OSHA requires forks to be removed from service when worn to 90% of original thickness.
Yes. We inspect lift chains for wear, stretch, and proper lubrication. Stretched chains are a common safety issue on high-hour forklifts.
We inspect the LPG fuel system including the tank, regulator, lines, and lock-off valve. We also check for proper engine operation on propane.
No. Our pre-purchase inspection is a buyer's evaluation, not a certified OSHA inspection. However, we identify safety issues that would require attention for OSHA compliance.
Yes, we regularly inspect at dealers and auctions. Contact us with the details and we'll coordinate access.
The IronCheck Difference
We work for you, not the seller or dealer. Our only goal is giving you the truth about the forklift's condition.
Our inspectors understand forklift-specific issues — mast wear, chain stretch, and the components that cost real money to fix.
We inspect forklifts across all 50 states. Wherever the machine is located, we can get an inspector on-site.
Most inspections scheduled within 24-48 hours. Report delivered same day or next business day.
Forklifts look simple but hide expensive problems in the mast, transmission, and hydraulics. Don't get stuck with someone else's headache.