Buy Excavator at FairTradeMachinery: Your Smart Guide to Used Excavators
Shopping for a used excavator can feel overwhelming. With dozens of brands, model sizes ranging from mini to mining-class, and price tags from $20,000 to well over $180,000, making the right choice matters. We're here to help you navigate the process—whether you're a contractor expanding your fleet or a landscaper picking up your first machine.
Why Buy a Used Excavator?
Used excavators offer real advantages over buying new. The cost savings alone can be substantial—you'll pay far less upfront while still getting a machine built to last. Pre-owned excavators have already passed through the steepest phase of depreciation, making them a smarter investment for many contractors. And here's the thing: modern excavators hold their value well. A machine under 4,000 hours typically retains 60–75% of its original value.
The used market also gives you access to a broader range of models, including discontinued or hard-to-find options. This flexibility lets you match equipment to job requirements without waiting months for a new unit. Plus, extending the lifecycle of heavy equipment aligns with sustainability goals.
Types of Excavators Available
Excavators come in several configurations. Crawler (tracked) excavators make up the majority of units available for sale, offering better stability and weight distribution on rough terrain. Mini excavators are perfect for tight, urban spaces, residential work, and landscaping—they're typically under 36 inches wide and can move through gates and doorways. Wheel excavators provide mobility benefits, moving quickly around job sites without needing a trailer.
Quick Reference: Excavator Types
Type | Best For | Weight Range |
|---|---|---|
Mini/Compact | Landscaping, tight spaces | Under 15,000 lbs |
Crawler | General construction, demolition | 15,000–100,000+ lbs |
Wheeled | Urban sites, road work | 20,000–60,000 lbs |
Top Brands to Consider
When you buy an excavator at FairTradeMachinery, you'll find trusted names like Caterpillar, Komatsu, Hitachi, and Sany. Each brand has strengths worth considering.
Caterpillar machines are known for handling extreme conditions and tolerate rough use well. They typically command higher resale values and come with widely available parts. Komatsu excavators offer excellent fuel efficiency and smooth operation, with lower maintenance costs. For buyers watching operating expenses, Komatsu often makes sense. Hitachi units are praised for superior hydraulics and precise controls—ideal for specialized applications. Sany excavators feature proven engines from Yanmar, Cummins, and Isuzu, offering competitive performance at lower price points.
What to Inspect Before Buying
Never agree to purchase equipment unseen. When evaluating a used excavator, start with these areas:
Engine and hydraulics: Check for leaks, unusual sounds, and smooth operation
Undercarriage: Examine tracks for wear patterns—this is one of the most expensive components
Hour meter: Machines under 4,000 hours typically retain more value
Structural integrity: Look for cracks or bends at connection points and weld lines
Service records: A well-documented maintenance history increases buyer confidence
Leaks from the center hydraulic pivot can be a major, costly repair. And if possible, always operate the machine before buying to assess real-world performance.
Finding the Right Dealer
Choosing your seller matters as much as choosing the machine. Reputable dealers provide detailed service records, clear documentation, and after-sale support. At FairTradeMachinery, all machines in our inventory are inspected and priced competitively. We can arrange delivery and offer financing options to qualified buyers.
Buying from a dealer's rental fleet often lowers risk—those machines tend to have complete maintenance histories from certified technicians. You'll know exactly what you're getting into.
Financing Your Excavator Purchase
Don't let upfront costs stop your project. Many used excavator purchases can be financed with flexible payment terms. Depending on your credit profile and business history, you may qualify for competitive rates. We work with financing partners to help qualified buyers spread costs over time—making that $45,000 to $90,000 machine far more accessible.
Factor in shipping and transportation costs when budgeting. Location impacts the final price you'll pay to get your machine on site.
Conclusion
Buying a used excavator is a smart move for contractors who want quality equipment without the new-machine price tag. By understanding the different types available, comparing brands, inspecting carefully, and working with a trustworthy dealer, you'll make a confident purchase. When you buy an excavator at FairTradeMachinery, you get competitive pricing, inspected machines, and financing options—all designed to get you working faster.
FAQs
How many hours is too many on a used excavator?
Machines under 4,000 hours generally retain strong value and have plenty of life left. That said, a well-maintained excavator with higher hours can still be a solid purchase if it has complete service records. The condition matters more than hours alone.
What's the average price for a used excavator?
Prices range widely based on size and condition. Mini excavators start around $20,000, while medium-sized crawlers typically run $45,000–$90,000. Larger models and premium brands can exceed $180,000.
Should I buy a Caterpillar or Komatsu excavator?
Both are excellent choices. Caterpillar excels in heavy-duty applications and holds resale value well. Komatsu offers better fuel efficiency and lower maintenance costs. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize power and brand recognition or operating cost savings.
Can I finance a used excavator purchase?
Yes. Many dealers, including FairTradeMachinery, work with financing partners to offer qualified buyers flexible payment options on used equipment. This makes larger purchases more manageable for businesses of all sizes.
What should I check before buying a used excavator?
Inspect the engine, hydraulics, undercarriage, and structural components. Ask for maintenance records and hour meter readings. Always test-operate the machine when possible, and watch for leaks—especially around the center hydraulic pivot.
FairTradeMachinery
“You Design the Vision. We Handle the Hard Parts.”
Helping Global Buyers Access Better-Value Machinery and After-Sales Solutions.
As China’s Leading Global Used Machinery Exchange Platform, we sits at the intersection of IoT technology and B2B commerce. That means real-time inventory data, verified seller profiles, and a transaction process designed for cross-border buyers who can't always inspect machines in person. Our users in China have exceeded 1.5 millions meaning we have the first source of excavator owners and the equivalent number of machines. This means we can cover all the popular models and even specific needs, no matter of the status.
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