Are you a contractor, fleet manager or construction business owner looking for cost-effective equipment purchases? Buying used equipment can help you build your fleet while spending less than the full price for new equipment. Although you may need to replace worn parts, the overall cost will likely still be lower than buying new.

If you choose to buy used, it's important to verify equipment condition and know what you're purchasing. With the right questions, you can make a cost-effective decision that improves your fleet without overspending on your budget. In this used excavator guide, we'll help you navigate purchasing a used machine that's cost-effective for your company. 

What Can You Use an Excavator For? 

Excavators are common in many industries because they're powerful and versatile. Here are just a few benefits of buying a used excavator and expanding your fleet: 

• Enhanced ability to dig, lift, demolish and grade construction projects
• Saved time because excavators move heavy loads quickly and efficiently
• Improved safety for equipment operators working on uneven or rocky ground

When you own an excavator, you can use different attachments to accomplish more work with the same machine. Commonly used attachments for excavators include: 

• Buckets
• Grapples
• Augers
• Trenchers
• Grading Buckets

If your company could benefit from additional strength and precision equipment, a used excavator is a good choice for your fleet. They can last many years when well maintained. 

How Much Does an Excavator Cost? 

Why buy a used excavator? Used heavy equipment always costs less than similar new models. The price of an excavator depends on several factors, including: 

• Brand and model
• Type and size
• Age and condition

Some companies are known for high-quality parts and trustworthy service. Working with a well-known company means you can be confident in the quality of their heavy machinery. However, big brands may be more of an investment because you pay for quality. Newer models often have updated technology and safety features that may increase their cost. 

The size of an excavator also impacts its price. Mini, medium and large excavators are suited for different types of work and are sold at different price points. Location and market demand can impact the cost of an excavator — transporting equipment over a long distance may increase the expense, for example. 

Tips for Buying a Used Excavator

Buying a used excavator is similar to purchasing a used car. You should only buy used equipment from a company you trust. To find the right fit for your goals, you should also understand the equipment and what parts need to be checked. While some used equipment is in great shape, other machines may not be right for your business goals. 

Here are several steps to take when buying used excavators:

Choose Sellers You Respect

When buying used equipment, always purchase through a dealer you respect. If you buy used heavy equipment from a third-party marketplace, you won't be able to verify its condition. Working with a seller you trust equips you to make a purchase with confidence. Trusted dealers have a reputation to uphold, and you can check reviews and testimonials before working with them. 

Inspect the Excavator

Inspections matter because visible signs of wear and tear will cue you in on the value of machinery. You'll have to repair worn-out parts, rust and damaged tracks before you can put used equipment to work. Here are several specific areas you should check before purchasing used equipment: 

• Hydraulic system: Check the equipment for hydraulic or coolant leaks.
• Undercarriage: Look under the machine at the rollers and sprockets. 
• Frame and cab: Examine metal for rust, cracks or other visible damage. 
• Attachments: Check for broken or missing parts and rust. 
• Tracks or tires: Inspect these moving parts for damage or wear. 

Even with excellent maintenance, it's normal for used equipment to show some wear and tear. However, extensive rust, a damaged undercarriage or hydraulic issues can be costly to fix. When purchasing used equipment, consider your investment as a whole — including the initial purchase price, repair and the equipment's longevity. 

Check Maintenance Records

You should always request maintenance records since they can tell you how well a machine has been cared for. Looking over this record can help you to predict what parts might need to be replaced after your purchase. Combined with the equipment's age and previous use, maintenance records give you a fuller picture of a used machine's current condition. 

Used Excavator Buying Checklist

Some equipment damage can lead to machine failure, while other issues are easy to fix. Use this excavator buying checklist to make a wise used equipment purchase: 

Hydraulic system: 

• Check the hydraulic filter.
• Look over hoses for leaks.
• Observe the oil tank level.
• Inspect cylinders, pins and bearings.
• Look at the slew ring.

Electrical system: 

• Check for frayed wires, loose connections and corrosion.
• Inspect the battery and terminals, and look for leaks or corrosion.
• Look at internal and external lights to ensure they're working.

Fluid levels:

• Check the engine oil level and condition.
• Look at the transmission fluid level and condition.
• Inspect the coolant level and look for leaks.

Engine and transmission:

• Check for leaks.
• Listen for strange vibrations or noises while the machine is on.
• Look at the final drives.

Undercarriage:

• Check for rust and scratches.
• Look over rollers and sprockets.

Structure and frame:

• Check the frame for damage like bending, cracking or welding issues.
• Look over the chassis for rust or other signs of damage.

Tires or tracks:

• If the excavator has tires, check them for pressure, wear and visible damage.
• If the excavator has tracks, inspect them for tension, cracks and visible wear.

Attachments and cab:

• Check the bucket or other attachments for visible wear.
• Look over the cab for wear or damage.

Safety features:

• Ask about safety features and test them.
• Check the cab's seatbelt condition.

Condition indicators:

• Check the hour meter — if it's broken, you might not know how much the equipment has been used.
• Look at the maintenance history to learn how the machine has been treated and repaired.

Operational testing:

• Test controls and movements for smooth operation.
• Listen carefully for unusual sounds during your test.

You can also ask a professional mechanic for advice. If you're purchasing used equipment online, buy through a trusted seller. Many online dealers complete inspections and publish their findings publically to help buyers find the right machine. 

Find Used Heavy Equipment With Wagner Equipment Co.

Since 1976, Wagner Equipment Co. has supplied construction professionals in New Mexico, Colorado and far west Texas with quality Cat® equipment. We're a total solutions provider with a wide inventory, stocked with everything you need to succeed on the job. You can find used machinery quickly and at an affordable price. 

In addition to used equipment for purchase, Wagner Equipment Co. also offers: 

• Machine rental
• Parts and service
• Financing options
• Technician training
• Consignment services

Let us equip you with the tools and expertise you need for success. All our used equipment is closely inspected so you know exactly what you'll receive. Filter for Cat Certified equipment or check each product's detailed specs to find equipment that meets your goals. 

We sell used equipment to local companies and businesses worldwide. If you need equipment transport, we can arrange that — reach out and let us know. Browse our used equipment today!