The Complete Used
Excavator
Buying Guide

Excavators come in a wide range of sizes and configurations. Choosing the right type depends on your project requirements, jobsite conditions, and budget. Here is a breakdown of the main categories:

Mini Excavators (Under 6 Tons)

Mini excavators are the most popular segment of the used market. They are ideal for residential projects, landscaping, utility installations, and any job where space is limited. Models like the Kubota KX040, Cat 303.5, and Bobcat E35 dominate this category.

• Operating weight: 1 - 6 tons
• Dig depth: 6 - 12 feet
• Best for: Residential, landscaping, tight spaces
• Used price range: $15,000 - $60,000

Compact Excavators (6 - 10 Tons)

Compact excavators bridge the gap between mini machines and full-size equipment. They offer more digging power while still being transportable on a standard trailer. Popular models include the Cat 308, Kubota KX080, and Komatsu PC78.

• Operating weight: 6 - 10 tons
• Dig depth: 12 - 18 feet
• Best for: Commercial construction, utility work, site prep
• Used price range: $40,000 - $120,000

Standard Excavators (10 - 45 Tons)

Standard excavators are the workhorses of commercial construction, demolition, and mining. These machines deliver serious production capability. Leading models include the Cat 320, Komatsu PC200, and Hitachi ZX210.

• Operating weight: 10 - 45 tons
• Dig depth: 18 - 30+ feet
• Best for: Heavy construction, demolition, mining, road building
• Used price range: $60,000 - $250,000+

Large / Mining Excavators (45+ Tons)

Large excavators are purpose-built for mining, quarrying, and major infrastructure projects. Unless you are in these industries, you likely will not need a machine this size. Brands like Cat, Komatsu, and Liebherr dominate this space.

Brand choice affects resale value, parts availability, dealer support, and long-term ownership costs. Here is a quick overview of the seven major brands:

For a detailed breakdown of each manufacturer, visit our Brand Comparison page.

A thorough pre-purchase inspection can save you tens of thousands of dollars. Never buy a used excavator without checking these critical areas:

Engine & Powertrain

• Check for blue or black exhaust smoke on cold start
• Listen for abnormal knocking or ticking sounds
• Verify hour meter reading against maintenance records
• Check coolant for oil contamination (blown head gasket)
• Pull the oil dipstick -- look for metal shavings or milky color

Hydraulic System

• Inspect all cylinder rods for scoring, pitting, or chrome peeling
• Check hydraulic oil level, color, and smell (burnt = overheated)
• Operate all functions under load -- watch for drift or slow movement
• Look for leaks at hose connections, swivel joints, and cylinders
• Test the hydraulic pump by stalling the bucket against the ground

Undercarriage

• Measure track pad wear, idler wear, sprocket wear, and roller wear
• Check for loose or broken track links
• Look for oil leaking from track rollers or idlers
• Undercarriage replacement can cost $10,000 - $30,000+

Structural & Swing

• Inspect boom, stick, and bucket for cracks, especially at weld points
• Check bucket teeth condition and pin wear
• Test swing bearing for play (clunking when swinging)
• Look for frame damage or signs of rollover/accident

Cab & Electronics

• Test all gauges, lights, and warning systems
• Check A/C and heater operation
• Verify any telematics or GPS systems are operational
• Look for water damage or rust inside the cab

Used excavator pricing depends on several key factors:

• Age and hours: The single biggest factor. Machines with under 3,000 hours command premium prices.
• Brand and model: Cat and Kubota generally hold value better than lesser-known brands.
• Condition: Undercarriage condition, hydraulic integrity, and overall maintenance history.
• Attachments: A machine with a thumb, coupler, and extra buckets is worth more.
• Market conditions: Construction demand, interest rates, and seasonal patterns affect pricing.
• Location: Prices vary by region. Machines in the Southeast US and Texas often cost less.

General Pricing Benchmarks

These are approximate ranges for machines in average condition with typical hours for their age:

Most used excavator purchases involve some form of financing. Here are the main options available:

Equipment Loans

Traditional equipment loans use the excavator itself as collateral. Terms typically range from 36 to 84 months with rates from 5-12% depending on credit, machine age, and lender. The SBA 504 loan program is popular for construction equipment.

Equipment Leases

Leasing can preserve cash flow and offers potential tax advantages. Operating leases keep the machine off your balance sheet, while capital leases let you own the equipment at the end of the term. Monthly payments are typically lower than loan payments.

Dealer Financing

Many Cat, John Deere, and Kubota dealers offer in-house financing with competitive rates for used equipment. Dealer financing can be convenient but always compare with third-party lenders.

Rent-to-Own

Some dealers and rental companies offer rent-to-own programs. A portion of your rental payments apply toward the purchase price. This is a good option if you want to try a machine before committing.