Excavators Buyer Guide
Excavators are indispensable heavy machines designed for digging, trenching, demolition, and material handling tasks, characterized by a boom, stick, bucket, and a rotating cab on an undercarriage. They are primarily purchased by construction companies, landscaping businesses, utility contractors, and mining operations for a wide array of earthmoving projects.
AI-updated monthly · Last refresh 9/1/2026
Fast facts
- Typical used price ranges from $50,000 for compact models to over $300,000 for large production machines.
- Operating weight ranges span from under 10,000 lbs (mini excavators) to over 200,000 lbs (large excavators).
- Well-maintained excavators can provide 10,000 to 15,000+ operating hours, with engines often lasting longer with proper care.
- Fuel consumption varies widely; a 20-ton excavator might use 4-6 gallons per hour, while mini-excavators use significantly less.
- Common attachments include various bucket sizes, hydraulic breakers, grapples, augers, compactors, and mulchers.
- Jobsite uses range from site preparation, utility installation, road building, demolition, trenching, and mining.
- Undercarriage typically accounts for 20-25% of the machine's initial cost and is a primary wear item.
What to look for
- 1Inspect the boom, stick, and bucket for cracks, welds, or excessive play at pivot points; these indicate heavy use or abuse.
- 2Check all hydraulic cylinders for leaks, pitting, or scoring on the chrome rods; a clean, dry rod is a good sign.
- 3Listen for unusual noises from the swing motor or turntable bearing; excessive grinding or looseness suggests wear.
- 4Examine the undercarriage thoroughly – track pads, sprockets, idlers, and rollers should show even wear, not excessive flaking or sharp edges.
- 5Verify the hour meter reading matches service records and engine compartment condition; low hours on a heavily worn machine are a red flag.
- 6Test all functions – swing, travel, boom, stick, bucket – for smooth, responsive operation without drift or hesitation.
- 7Review service history for consistent maintenance, oil analysis reports, and major component replacements.
- 8Inspect the cab for functionality of controls, AC/heat, and safety features; operator comfort impacts productivity.
- 9Look for excessive exhaust smoke (color indicates potential engine issues) and listen for unusual engine noises at various RPMs.
- 10Inquire about telematics data, if available, for insights into operational efficiency, idle times, and fault codes.
Best makes & models
Caterpillar
320-336 series, 308-315 (mini/compact)Known for robust construction, widespread dealer support, and excellent parts availability, offering high resale value.
John Deere
210G-350G series, 17G-85G (mini/compact)Offers strong performance and operator comfort, with good fuel efficiency and integration with other Deere equipment.
Komatsu
PC210-PC360 series, PC88-PC138 (mid-size)Recognized for advanced hydraulic systems, reliability, and excellent fuel economy, often including standard telematics.
Hitachi
ZX210-ZX350 series, ZX60-ZX130 (mini/compact)Praised for powerful digging forces, hydraulic precision, and durability, often favored in demanding excavation tasks.
Volvo
EC220-EC300 series, ECR50-ECR88 (compact radius)Features strong performance, superior operator environments, and good fuel efficiency with a focus on uptime and safety.
Models with known issues
Commonly-reported issues from operators and technicians. Every machine varies — always inspect before you buy.
Certain early tier-4 models (various OEMs) 2010-2014 ranges
Some early Tier 4 emission systems faced reliability issues, leading to DPF/DEF problems and costly repairs for some operators.
Specific Chinese brands Certain entry-level models
While improving, some models from less established brands have been reported to have inconsistent parts availability or slower service response in North America.
Older specialized models Highly customized excavators (e.g., long-reach, demolition spec)
Parts for older, highly specialized attachments or configurations can become extremely scarce and expensive over time, making repairs challenging.
Frequently asked questions
What is a realistic price range for a used 20-ton excavator?
A used 20-ton excavator can range from $80,000 to $180,000, depending on hours, condition, year, and specific features or attachments.
How many hours are considered 'too many' for a used excavator?
While 10,000-15,000 hours are common for major rebuilds, a machine with even 8,000-10,000 hours can be a good value if it has a documented history of meticulous maintenance and recent component overhauls.
What are my financing options for purchasing an excavator?
Financing options include traditional bank loans, equipment leases, and manufacturer-specific finance programs, with rates varying based on credit, down payment, and term length.
How do I arrange shipping for an excavator I buy?
Shipping can be arranged through specialized heavy haul trucking companies; costs depend on machine size, weight, distance, and whether permits for oversized loads are required.
Do used excavators come with a warranty?
Most used excavators are sold 'as-is,' but some dealers offer limited warranties on certain components or for a short period, and extended warranties may be available for purchase.
What factors influence an excavator's resale value?
Resale value is heavily influenced by brand reputation, operating hours, overall condition, maintenance history, and whether it has desirable features or attachments that appeal to a broad market.