We maintain a hire fleet, so we know where used machines hide their problems. If you’re buying — from us or anyone — check these.
The paperwork first
- Logbook and service history. No records = assume the worst on everything below.
- Major inspection status. EWPs have a 10-year major inspection requirement. A machine near that date carries a large pending cost — price it in.
- Compliance plate and manuals present and matching the machine.
Batteries (the used-electric money pit)
Battery packs are the most expensive consumable on an electric scissor. Ask the age, check charge behaviour (full overnight charge, then a real workout), and inspect terminals and water levels. A tired pack can cost a meaningful fraction of the machine’s price.
Hydraulics and structure
- Cylinder seals: raise fully, leave elevated, look for drift and weeping.
- Scissor stack pins and bushes: rock the platform — clunks mean wear.
- Chassis and platform welds: cracks, plate repairs, fresh paint over one area.
Function test everything
Drive, steer, elevate from both control stations. Emergency descent. Tilt and overload alarms. Pothole protection deploys. Non-marking tyres actually non-marking (and not worn out).
Buying from a hire fleet
Ex-fleet machines from a maintainer come with known history — that’s the main argument for them. Equip Hire welcomes buy enquiries on fleet machines: use the “Enquire to buy” button on any product page, and we’ll share the machine’s history straight.
Or test the theory first
Not sure the model suits your work? Hire it for a week first — the cheapest possible way to find out. See Should I Hire or Buy?
Need a machine for this job? Get a hire quote — tell us the job and suburb and we’ll quote the right machine and delivery. Or use Help Me Choose. Call 0472 721 234.