Used Mini-Excavators for Sale

A mini excavator, also known as a compact excavator or mini digger, is a small hydraulic excavating machine used for various construction, landscaping, and utility work. Mini excavators typically weigh between 1,000 and 10,000 kilograms (2,200 to 22,000 pounds) and are characterized by their compact size, maneuverability, and versatility. They are equipped with a boom, dipper (or arm), and bucket attachment, allowing them to perform tasks such as digging trenches, foundations, and holes; lifting and moving materials; grading and leveling terrain; and performing demolition work in tight or confined spaces. Mini excavators are popular for their ease of operation, efficiency, and ability to access areas inaccessible to larger excavators, making them essential equipment on many job sites.

Bobcat | John Deere | Kubota | Takeuchi

“Compact mini excavator” and “mini excavator” generally refer to the same type of equipment. Both terms are used interchangeably to describe small hydraulic excavating machines designed for various construction, landscaping, and utility tasks. These machines are characterized by their compact size, maneuverability, and versatility, making them ideal for working in tight or confined spaces. Whether referred to as a compact mini excavator or simply a mini excavator, they typically share similar features and capabilities, including a boom, dipper (or arm), and bucket attachment for digging, lifting, and moving materials.

When shopping for a compact excavator for sale, consider the following factors to ensure you choose the right model for your needs:

Size and Weight: Evaluate the size and weight of the compact excavator to ensure it can maneuver and operate effectively in the spaces where you intend to use it.

Operating Capacity: Determine the maximum weight the excavator can lift and carry safely, considering the types of materials and tasks you’ll be handling.

Attachments Compatibility: Check if the excavator is compatible with a variety of attachments such as buckets, augers, grapples, and hydraulic breakers, allowing you to perform a wide range of tasks with one machine.

Hydraulic System: Assess the hydraulic system’s power and efficiency to ensure it can deliver adequate performance for digging, lifting, and operating attachments.

Comfort and Ergonomics: Consider the operator’s comfort and ergonomics, including the cab design, seating, controls layout, visibility, and noise levels, to maximize productivity and reduce operator fatigue.

Fuel Efficiency: Look for a compact excavator with a fuel-efficient engine to minimize operating costs and reduce environmental impact.

Determining the cheapest mini excavators depends on various factors, including the brand, model, features, and condition (new or used). Generally, some brands offer more budget-friendly options compared to others. Some of the more economical mini excavator brands include:

Yanmar: Yanmar manufactures a range of compact excavators known for their reliability and affordability. They offer models with various features and capabilities suitable for different applications.

Bobcat: Bobcat produces compact excavators with a reputation for durability and performance at competitive prices. Their machines are popular choices for contractors seeking cost-effective equipment solutions.

Kubota: Kubota offers a lineup of compact excavators known for their efficiency, versatility, and value for money. They provide models with different sizes and configurations to meet diverse customer needs.

Komatsu: Komatsu manufactures compact excavators with a focus on quality and affordability. Their machines are designed to deliver reliable performance while keeping operating costs low.

John Deere: John Deere produces compact excavators renowned for their durability, performance, and competitive pricing. They offer a range of models suitable for various applications and budgets.

Smaller Mini Excavators, like a Bobact E26, could run you $3.80 per mile to ship, depending on location, the length of the drive, and the machine weight.

Deciding whether buying a mini excavator is a good investment hinges on several factors specific to your business and projects. For many contractors and businesses in construction, landscaping, and related fields, owning a mini excavator can offer significant benefits. The versatility and efficiency of mini excavators streamline operations, reducing reliance on renting equipment and leading to long-term cost savings. With ownership comes greater flexibility and control over project schedules, allowing for quicker response times and the ability to take on a wider range of projects. Additionally, owning a mini excavator may present opportunities for additional income through renting out the equipment during downtime. Moreover, mini excavators are durable machines with long lifespans, potentially retaining their value well over time and offering resale value down the line. However, it’s crucial to carefully assess your specific needs, budget, and expected usage to determine whether the investment aligns with your business goals and financial situation. Consulting with equipment dealers and financial advisors can help in exploring purchasing options and evaluating the potential return on investment.

Small excavators, or compact excavators, offer several benefits due to their compact size and versatility. Their ability to operate in tight spaces makes them ideal for urban and residential areas. Despite their size, they provide impressive digging power and can perform various tasks such as trenching, lifting, and grading. Additionally, their lightweight design and fuel efficiency make them easy to transport and cost-effective to operate. With comfortable cabs and intuitive controls, they ensure operator comfort and productivity. Overall, small excavators are valuable tools for construction and landscaping projects requiring maneuverability and efficiency.

Mini Excavator prices vary based on the size of the machine, the depth it can dig, its horsepower, and any additional features. A Mini Excavator can cost anywhere between $20,000 to $90,000. Most models fall in the $30,000 to $40,000 range.

How a Mini Excavator was maintained and used can be just as important as how many hours are on the meter. Buying a unit with between 2,000 and 3,000 hours may be the best trade off between price and life left.

Check out this video of how to operate a Komatsu Mini Excavator: