Thinking, “How much is a used excavator cost?”. This is a question a lot of construction and earthmoving people want to know, but the answer isn’t easy. It depends on the make, the age, the hours, and the condition. Don’t worry; there are still ways to get a good deal on good equipment.
If you’re looking to buy a used excavator, understanding the key factors that affect the price is crucial. Brand, model, condition, and location all play a role in determining cost. This guide will give you insights into how much a used excavator typically costs and, most importantly, how you can save money while making a smart purchase.
You get the point. Now let’s dig into why подержанный экскаватор prices vary, and some real-world tips on how to save money.
How Much is a Used Excavator Cost?
Used excavator prices can have a big range. On average, you might find one for $20,000 к $100,000+ and up for others. It all depends on the brand, the size, the age, how many hours are on the machine, and the condition.
Factors Affecting the Price
The cost of a used excavator is influenced by several factors:
| Factor | Description | Impact on Price |
| Бренд | Popular brands like CAT, Komatsu, Hitachi tend to have higher prices due to their reliability and long-lasting performance. | Premium brands cost more. |
| Модель | Larger and more powerful models such as the CAT 336 are pricier than smaller models like the CAT 320D. | Bigger models = higher price. |
| Age | Newer models with fewer hours will generally cost more than older models with higher hours of operation. | Older machines = lower cost, but possibly more repairs. |
| Состояние | Excavators in better condition (low hours, minimal wear, no major repairs) command higher prices. | Better condition = higher price. |
| Location of Purchase | Prices can differ greatly depending on where you’re buying from (e.g., China vs. local markets). | Geographic location affects pricing, especially due to shipping. |
For example, a used CAT 320D may cost around $50,000, while a Комацу ПК200 could range between $40,000 – $60,000, depending on its hours and condition.
Tip #1: Choose Older Models for Better Value
Opting for older models is a great way to save money and still get a good machine. While the new ones have all the latest features and fuel economy, the older ones do the same job for a lot less money. Machines like a CAT 320C (2010) or a Komatsu PC200 (2012) still do the job and are a lot cheaper to purchase.
Example Price Comparison: New vs. Old Models
| Модель | Year | Price Range (Used) | Typical Hours | Состояние |
| CAT 320D | 2015 | $50,000 – $65,000 | 6,000 – 8,000 hrs | Good |
| CAT 320C | 2010 | $30,000 – $40,000 | 8,000 – 10,000 hrs | Fair |
| Комацу ПК200 | 2012 | $35,000 – $50,000 | 7,000 – 9,000 hrs | Good |
You might find a Caterpillar 320C that’s older (2010) for as low as $30,000, while a newer version (CAT 320D, 2015) may cost $50,000 – $65,000. The savings could be significant, and you’re still going to get years of service out of that older machine without spending nearly as much money.
Tip: Target models that have a good maintenance history, and find ones with lower hours to avoid problems.
Tip #2: Research the Excavator Brand
Brand and model. No matter what brand of used excavator you buy, you want to get a great deal. However, some of the “premium” brands like КОТ, Komatsu, or Hitachi usually retain a higher value and cost more to buy initially. Some of the lesser-known brands like XCMG, SDLG, Doosan, etc. often cost less than the premium brands and have great performance. With that said, you can often get more of a used machine used with fewer hours for less money if you buy one of the non-premium brands than if you buy a CAT, Komatsu, or Deere.
Price Comparison by Brand
| Бренд | Price Range (Used) | Advantages | Disadvantages |
| КОТ | $50,000 – $100,000+ | Reliable, long lifespan, high resale value | Higher upfront cost |
| Комацу | $40,000 – $85,000 | Efficient, good fuel economy | Can be costly for newer models |
| Хитачи | $45,000 – $90,000 | Known for hydraulic efficiency | More expensive than others |
| XCMG | $25,000 – $60,000 | Lower initial cost, strong performance | Shorter lifespan in some models |
| СДЛГ | $20,000 – $50,000 | Affordable, reliable | May lack advanced features |
I have seen people get a great machine with less money by buying a machine with less notable blue paint. You can call CAT, Komatsu, or Deere with a problem. When you buy a piece of used equipment, all you are buying is a problem. Bur for the premium brands, you have an 800 number to call; they’ll answer the phone and come to your company Christmas party.
If you don’t have a bunch of money, you might look at an XCMG or SDLG vs. a CAT or Komatsu. I have seen plenty of them work fine. I have one at my house. It goes out and hones gardens, and it doesn’t sit still. You can compare three or four brands and pick one, and chances are you are going to get a pretty good machine. If you spend a lot less, you can get more hours on a used machine. Tip: Don’t forget to check parts availability in your area for whatever brand of machine you buy.
Tip #3: Look for Factory Refurbished Models
Buy a factory-refurbished unit. Factory-refurbished units are a great way to get a machine without paying full price for a new one. They have been checked and worked on by the original manufacturer to fix anything that was wrong with them.
Benefits of Factory Refurbished Models
- Warranty: Most refurbished machines come with a manufacturer warranty, giving you added peace of mind.
- Reliability: Refurbished machines are restored to near-new condition, ensuring they function optimally.
- Cost: Refurbished machines can be 20%–40% cheaper than new ones.
For example, a refurbished CAT 320D might cost between $55,000 and $60,000 and save you a lot of money compared to a brand-new unit that might cost you well over $100,000.
Tip: Always ask for the details of the refurbishment process to make sure the machine has been tested and repaired.
Tip #4: Compare Prices from Multiple Dealers
Always compare prices from different dealers to ensure you’re getting the best deal. Prices can vary based on your location, current market conditions, and the reputation of the different dealers. You might be stunned to learn that prices for the same model can differ greatly depending on where you buy it.
Price Variation by Dealer
| Dealer | Location | Price for CAT 320D (Used) | Shipping Cost | Total Cost |
| Dealer A | Китай | $50,000 | $3,000 | $53,000 |
| Dealer B | USA | 55 000 долларов | $7,000 | $62,000 |
| Dealer C | South America | $52,000 | $4,500 | $56,500 |
If you’re shopping internationally, remember that the price you see is never the price you pay because you still have to get the machine from the purchase location to your operation. Always ask for the delivered price to your
location and be aware of the import duties and local taxes you’ll have to pay.
Tip #5: Inspect the Excavator’s Condition Thoroughly
Before putting up any money, make sure you see the machine and inspect it thoroughly. You can buy cheaper, but you don’t want to buy something with a bunch of problems you have to repair.
Key Areas to Inspect
- Двигатель: Leaking oil, weird sounds, and weird vibrations could mean a main drive pump or engine problems.
- Гидравлическая система: Main pumps are fine but there is a problem with final drives or cylinders. There can be a million things that can be wrong with the final drive or cylinders. Check all the steering functions and auxiliary hydraulic functions.
- Undercarriage: Worn out tracks, shot rollers, or worn out idlers or undercarriage wear parts.
- Control Systems: Test and verify all control mechanisms (pedals, levers, and electronic interfaces work).
A good rule of thumb before buying a used or foreign machine is to get an inspection by a qualified local inspector, mechanics that you trust, or request that the seller pays for the inspection. Essentially, you are
looking for peace of mind, even if you have to pay for the inspection. I have bought and sold machines to and from dealers and didn’t bother with an inspection.
Tip: Ask for the daily maintenance records. That will quickly tell you how the owner has cared for the machine.
Tip #6: Consider Shipping and Import Costs
Shipping can range from a couple thousand to tens of thousands of dollars. Customs duties on large machines can be 2-3% of the value and sometimes as high as 9% or more. You’ll also have to pay state sales tax if the company you purchased from is not located in your state. Remember to calculate all these costs in your budget when buying an excavator. If you don’t, you may find yourself coming up short on cash when it’s time to pay the piper.
Shipping and Import Costs Breakdown
| Cost Factor | Estimated Range |
| Shipping Fees | $2,000 – $5,000 |
| Customs Duties | 5% – 10% of the purchase price |
| Taxes | Varies based on country |
Most of the time, you’re looking at shipping fees between $2,000 and $5,000 depending on how far you’re shipping and the shipping method you choose. Custom duties generally run around 5 to 10% of your total purchase price. Taxes will depend on where you live, but again, you’re looking at around another 5 to 10%ish. In some places, it might pop you up to about $1,000 to $2,000.
For example, if you’re looking to import a CAT 320D from China, your import fees (shipping, duties, and taxes) could be anywhere from $7,000 to $12,000. These fees are no joke and can make or break your deal, so make sure you’re taking them into account when figuring what you can actually afford to own.
Tip: Work with a good logistics company. They can help you understand what total costs will be and can help you avoid potential surprises like port handling fees or storage fees if your equipment sits at a port for an extended period of time waiting to clear customs. The key is to plan ahead so you don’t have to explain a surprise surcharge to your boss once the equipment shows up.
Tip #7: Negotiate the Price
It can also help to know how many hours are on the machine and when the major components were last serviced or rebuilt. All of that is worth money. The bottom line is don’t be afraid to ask for a better price when you’re buying that piece of equipment.
Negotiation Tips
- Bulk Discounts: If you’re buying multiple machines at once, ask for a bulk discount. Many sellers will offer a better price if you order several.
- Payment Terms: Paying up front can sometimes save you money, as can paying in cash. Dealers like money in hand and may discount the price.
- Seasonal Sales: Like any other business, dealers of used heavy equipment have times when they want to move merchandise, such as the slow months of winter. If you don’t need a machine right now, you may find the best price at the time of year when demand for heavy equipment is lower.
Negotiating with dealers can be tricky, but with the right approach, you can secure a great deal and potentially save thousands of dollars.
Tip #8: Look for Package Deals or Discounts
You can also bundle service packages with your purchase, which are often temporary deals offered for free or at a discounted rate. For example, a dealership may offer a free maintenance package for the first year or a free extended warranty. If you’re going to need the service anyway, it’s hard to pass up a free or greatly discounted package!
Example Package Deals
| Package Deal | Included Equipment | Discount |
| Excavator + Bucket | CAT 320D, 1.5m digging bucket | 5% off total price |
| Excavator + Auger | Komatsu PC200, auger attachment | 8% off total price |
| Excavator + Grapple | Hitachi ZX330, grapple bucket | 10% off total price |
Another deal that dealers offer is a package deal with the excavator and attachments like a bucket, grapple, or auger. They bundle the attachments with the excavator at the time of purchase. These are great deals because they get more stuff on the ground for the price you’re going to spend anyway.
Tip #9: Verify the Excavator’s History and Documentation
At this stage, whatever you can get from your dealer in the way of free service or products is worth its weight in gold. If buying a package deal with a machine and your attachments, it’s likely the cheapest way to get more for your dollar. Also, you won’t have to worry about where to get your attachments after the fact.
Key Documents to Request
- Service History: This could be the best thing the dealer has because this is everything that’s ever been done to the machine, ever. This report includes all the repair work, replacements, and routine maintenance that has ever been done on the machine.
- Inspection Reports: Any reputable dealer will already have an extensive inspection report on a machine. This report will detail everything from engine health and hydraulics to undercarriage wear and more. This report will be beneficial in helping you identify any potential issues with a machine.
- Ownership History: This will give you insight into who has owned the machine and could tell you a lot about the work it has done. If a single owner has used the machine for the past ten years, that’s less concerning than if the machine has seen three owners in the past two years. If it’s a two-year-old machine with three owners, that can be a red flag.
Tip #10: Buy from Trusted Suppliers
It’s important to find a trusted supplier. Make sure the supplier provides you with documented proof of the machine quality (don’t just take their word for it). Also, make sure they will take good care of you if you have a warranty issue down the road. This is why the best people to buy from are Ford and Chevrolet dealers. You may be able to get a car cheaper elsewhere, but a good relationship with the dealer you purchase from can make your ownership experience very nice indeed. We feel the same way about ХИКСЕН. They’ll take care of you if you have an issue, and in my book, that’s worth warranty.
Why Choose Trusted Suppliers
- Transparency: Have they told you the good, the bad, and the ugly about the machine? Have they given you full documentation on the machine and any history, maintenance records, any repairs or refurbishments?
- Warranty: TEST purchase from people who offer some kind of warranty. You’ve got more to lose than they do, so get them to agree to a warranty.
- Customer Support: Trust they will stand behind the sale, meaning they will help you with spare parts, trouble-shooting, and how to use the machine.
Заключение
In Summary, the price for a used excavator can vary based on brand, condition, age, and where you’re at. By following these tips you can make an informed decision on whether you can afford a used excavator or not. Whether it’s buying older models, negotiating prices, or shopping around to find the best deals, you can on your next purchase of a used excavator. Save some dough and make sure it’s a quality purchase. Are you tired of reading and just want to find the best used excavator for the right price? If so, contact ХИКСЕН today. Our team will help you find the right equipment at a price you can afford.
