How to Spot Fake Forklift Listings Online

Quick Facts About Fake Forklift Listings

• Scammers often post forklifts at prices that look way too good
• Missing serial numbers or seller info should raise concern
• Watch for stock images or blurry photos; those are red flags
• A legit seller will let you inspect or verify the machine
• Thompson Lift Truck stands behind every forklift we sell

Browsing used forklifts online is convenient. You get to compare prices, look at specs, maybe even find a good deal. But not every listing out there is real. Fake forklift listings are prevalent; some are straight-up scams, and people get caught off guard more often than you’d think.

If you’ve ever come across a forklift listing that seemed almost too perfect, like it was underpriced or missing a few key details, there’s a reason you hesitated. 

In this guide, we’ll discuss the common red flags of online used forklift scams, how to protect yourself, and what to look for in a trustworthy seller.

Why Fake Forklift Listings Are a Growing Problem

Online marketplaces have made it easier than ever to find equipment, but they’ve also made it easier for scammers to trick buyers. From fake photos to non-existent machines, these scams are designed to look legit until it’s too late.

If the deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.

1. The Price Is Suspiciously Low

We all love a deal. But when you see a forklift listed for thousands less than it should be, take a pause. Scam listings use low prices to pull you in fast. They usually come with some story: the machine has to be sold today, or someone backed out last minute.

What’s really going on? There’s likely no forklift at all. Just a scammer hoping you’ll send money before asking too many questions.

What to do instead: Check other listings for the same make and model. If most are around $18,000 and one’s listed for $9,000, there’s probably a reason, and it’s not a good one.

2. No Serial Number? That’s a Bad Sign

A serial number is the easiest way to verify a forklift’s identity. It tells you where it came from, how old it is, and if it’s had any serious repairs or recalls. If the listing skips over that, or the seller dodges your questions about it, that’s your cue to walk away.

Some scammers might send a fake serial number just to stall. Double-check it. Call the manufacturer or a dealer you trust (like Thompson Lift Truck) to confirm it’s real.

3. Seller’s Details Are Vague (or Nonexistent)

Here’s a quick test: try contacting the seller. Do they respond? Do they have a business name, an actual website, or even a phone number? If not, that’s a problem.

Scammers usually keep things vague. You might see a first name and a Gmail address, and that’s it. No company name, no office location, no traceable contact info. Real businesses want to be found. Fake ones don’t.

4. The Photos Don’t Look Right

Scam listings often rely on photos pulled from catalogs or other websites. You’ll see forklifts in perfect lighting, no scratches, no wear, basically too clean to be used.

Sometimes they’re blurry or oddly cropped. Sometimes the photos don’t even match the brand or model mentioned.

Try this: right-click the image and do a reverse image search. If you see the same picture on other listings or stock photo sites, walk away.

5. You Can’t Inspect the Forklift

A reputable seller wants you to feel confident. They’ll offer to show the forklift in person, walk you through a video, or share a full inspection report.

Scammers don’t. They’ll say the machine is “in storage,” “already packed up,” or “ready to ship immediately.” That’s code for: you’ll never see it.

Don’t skip the inspection step. Ask to see maintenance records, close-up photos, or a video walkthrough before you agree to anything.

6. The Payment Request Feels Off

Be suspicious of sellers who want gift cards, wire transfers, or ask you to use weird payment apps with no protection. These methods make it hard, if not impossible, to get your money back once it’s gone.

Real sellers offer standard payment options and send proper invoices. If the seller is rushing you or won’t let you use a secure method, that’s a major red flag.

Buying Used Forklifts with Confidence

There’s a lot to consider when buying used equipment online. But it doesn’t have to be stressful. The key is sticking with sellers who are transparent, experienced, and easy to reach.

That’s exactly what we offer at Thompson Lift Truck. Every forklift we list has gone through inspections, is backed by service records, and comes with our full support;  before, during, and after the sale. Check out our guide to buying used forklifts for more!