Forklift Factory Inspection: Pre-Delivery Checklist for China Imports
The best time to catch forklift problems is before the container doors close. After shipment, everything gets slower, more expensive, and harder to argue about.
A proper pre-delivery inspection should include more than a startup video. Buyers should request photos or live video of the serial plate, mast welds, fork markings, battery brand, charger label, tire condition, lifting test, dashboard display, lights, and hydraulic functions. If you ordered options like side shifter or a custom mast, verify them on video.
It is also worth confirming what paperwork is physically included: manual, parts list, CE-related documents if needed, charger instructions, and packing list. Missing paperwork does not sound serious until customs or local registration asks for it.
For export orders of the CPD-15, CPD-25, or any larger model, ask the supplier to show the forklift lifting a real load—not just moving empty. That quick test tells you a lot about mast behavior, hydraulic response, and whether the machine was truly prepared for shipment.
One final point: inspection is not distrust. Good factories are used to it. In fact, serious suppliers usually welcome it because it reduces disputes later.
If you are sourcing factory-direct and want a clear pre-shipment checklist, start here: sdslmachinery.com/contact-us/