Finding the right used excavator for your construction or earthmoving project just got easier. We've expanded our inventory to include more than 10,000 used excavators from the world's most trusted manufacturers. Whether you're looking for a compact mini excavator for urban work or a heavy-duty crawler for large-scale construction, our selection covers every category and budget. Let's break down what this inventory expansion means for buyers across the United States.

Why Used Excavators Make Smart Business Sense

Buying used equipment isn't just about saving money—though that's a big part of it. Standard-sized and large excavators can cost between $200,000 and $600,000 brand-new, while used models can run as low as $50,000. That price difference lets contractors stretch their budgets further and take on more projects without overextending their finances.

The used excavator market has stayed strong through 2025, with financed sales rising 2.7% year over year. Buyers are recognizing that well-maintained machines from reputable dealers offer years of reliable service. Machines with fewer than 4,000 hours typically retain 60–75% of their original value, making them solid investments for resale down the road. When you purchase from a trusted source, you're getting equipment that's been inspected and verified—not a gamble.

Top Excavator Brands in Our Inventory

Our expanded inventory features equipment from the industry's leading manufacturers. We carry excavators from top brands that contractors know and trust.

Caterpillar (CAT): Often called the gold standard in excavators, CAT machines are built to handle intense workloads and tough conditions. Parts are widely available worldwide, which reduces downtime. The CAT 320 and CAT 336 remain among the most sought-after models.

Komatsu: Known for fuel efficiency, advanced control systems, and lower total ownership costs. Komatsu excavators consistently rank among the top sellers in both new and used markets.

Volvo: These machines offer comfort, control, and durability with a focus on fuel efficiency. Volvo excavators are especially popular in markets with stricter emissions regulations.

Hitachi, Deere, Kobelco, and Kubota: Each brings specific strengths to the table—whether it's precision operation, reliability for light-to-medium work, or fuel efficiency for extended operations.

Crawler, Wheel, and Mini Excavators Available

Excavators come in three main categories, and we stock all of them.

Crawler excavators make up the largest portion of available machines. These tracked models offer superior stability and traction on rough terrain, making them ideal for major construction, mining, and demolition projects. Operating weights range from about 2,000 pounds for compact units to well over 100,000 pounds for heavy-duty models.

Wheel excavators work best on soft, even surfaces and are popular for roadwork, utility projects, and urban environments where mobility matters. Their rubber tires let them move quickly around job sites and even drive short distances on paved roads.

Mini excavators (under 15,000 pounds) have become the second-highest selling category behind compact track loaders. They're perfect for landscaping, utility trenching, and residential work where space is tight. Zero tail-swing designs let operators work near walls and obstacles without worrying about the cab swinging into anything.

What to Look For When Buying Used

Smart buyers inspect a few key areas before making a purchase. The undercarriage, hydraulics, and engine condition tell you most of what you need to know about a machine's health. A well-maintained excavator can run reliably for 8,000 to 10,000 engine hours—sometimes longer with proper care.

Check the service history. Machines with complete maintenance logs sell faster and command better prices because they show the equipment was cared for properly.

Consider the hours and age. Average used mini excavator prices sat around $47,528 in recent market data, with the average machine being about 4.75 years old. Low-hour units—especially those under 1,000 hours—can retain 80–90% of their original value.

Match the machine to your work. Over-sizing or under-sizing your excavator affects both productivity and resale value. Think about the tasks you'll tackle most often before choosing.

Browse Our Full Selection Today

At FairTradeMachinery, we've built our reputation on offering quality pre-owned construction equipment at fair prices. Our 10,000+ excavator inventory means you'll find options across every size class, brand, and price point. Whether you're a contractor expanding your fleet, a rental company restocking, or a business owner tackling your first major project, we're here to help you find the right machine.

Take a look through our listings, compare models, and reach out when you're ready. Good equipment shouldn't be hard to find.

Conclusion

Our expanded inventory of 10,000+ used excavators gives buyers access to top brands like Caterpillar, Komatsu, Volvo, Hitachi, and more—all in one place. Used excavators offer real savings compared to new equipment while still delivering reliable performance when purchased from trusted sources. With crawler, wheel, and mini options available across every price range, contractors and fleet managers can find exactly what they need without compromising on quality. Smart buying means checking service records, inspecting key components, and matching the machine to your actual work requirements.

FAQs

How many hours is too many on a used excavator?

Most well-maintained excavators run reliably for 8,000 to 10,000 engine hours. Machines used primarily for lighter tasks often last longer. Always review maintenance records and consider how the previous owner used the equipment before making a decision.

Which excavator brand holds its value best?

Caterpillar, Komatsu, Volvo, and Hitachi consistently lead in resale value. A 2022 Caterpillar model in good condition might retain 60–70% of its original price in 2025, while lesser-known brands may only hold 40–50%.

What's the difference between crawler and wheel excavators?

Crawler excavators use steel tracks for better stability and traction on rough terrain. Wheel excavators have rubber tires, move faster on paved surfaces, and work well in urban settings where mobility between locations matters.

Are mini excavators a good investment?

Yes. Mini excavators are the second-highest selling equipment category in the U.S. market. Their versatility for urban construction, landscaping, and utility work makes them in steady demand, supporting strong resale values.

What should I inspect before buying a used excavator?

Focus on the undercarriage (tracks or tires), hydraulic system, engine condition, and boom wear. Ask for service records and test the machine if possible. Buying from a reputable dealer reduces the risk of hidden problems.