Many folks will think about buying a excavateur d'occasion, especially if it’s up for sale nearby—they figure it’ll be easier to check out and cheaper to haul. But is that used excavator down the road really a good buy? Let’s break this down from a few key angles.
Where to Look First
Finding a solid used excavator near you starts with knowing where to hunt. Local dealerships are a great first stop—they often inspect pre-owned machines and might offer a limited warranty, which is a huge plus if you’re new to buying used equipment. Sure, prices might be higher than private sellers, but the peace of mind is worth it. Pro tip: Ask about end-of-season sales; many dealers discount used stock to make room for new models.
Online marketplaces can also pay off, but stick to local listings. Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace let you filter by your city—just make sure to check “local pickup only.” Look for sellers who post detailed photos (engine bay, tracks, cab) and mention maintenance records. Websites like MachineryTrader or Equipment Trader let you sort by distance; focus on verified sellers to avoid scams. A red flag? Sellers who push for shipping instead of letting you inspect in person—that’s a major warning sign.
Don’t overlook local auctions or rental companies. Auction houses like Ritchie Bros. often have used excavators from rental fleets, which are usually well-maintained (since rentals get regular service). Rental companies like United Rentals or Sunbelt also sell old stock sometimes—ask about “late-model rentals” with low hours. These machines tend to be reliable because they were kept in working order for clients.
Inspect the Machine
Before you even think about money, give the used excavator a thorough once-over. Start with the exterior: look for rust patches. Small spots on the body are fine, but rusted-through panels or chassis rails mean water damage—run from that machine. Check under the excavator for fluid leaks: a tiny oil drip is normal, but wet hydraulic hoses or puddles of coolant mean expensive repairs ahead. For tracked models, ensure the tracks are aligned and not overly worn; bald tires on wheeled excavators mean you’ll need to replace them, so factor that cost into your budget.
Next, dig into the mechanicals. Ask for the hour meter reading: a used excavator with 10,000 hours is okay if it has maintenance records, but 15,000+ hours without paperwork is risky. Start the engine cold and listen for strange noises—knocking could mean bad pistons, while rattling might signal a loose belt. Operate the boom, arm, and bucket: they should move smoothly without jerks or delays. If the bucket drops when the engine is off, the hydraulic seals are likely shot.
Pop the hood and check fluids and filters. Engine oil should be amber, not black (which means it needs changing). Coolant levels should be full, and hydraulic fluid should be clear, not milky (a sign of water contamination). Dirty filters or neglected fluids are red flags for overall maintenance neglect.
Test Drive Like Your Business Depends on It
Never buy a used excavator without a test drive. Find a spot to dig—whether it’s dirt, gravel, or sand—and see how the bucket penetrates. The arm should lift smoothly; if it struggles, hydraulic pressure might be low. Spin the cab 360 degrees and listen for grinding sounds. If it’s a wheeled excavator, drive it around; if tracked, move the tracks—both should operate without slipping or jerking.
Lift a heavy load (like a pile of rocks) and move it. The machine shouldn’t wobble, and the hydraulics should hold the load steady without dropping. If you notice vibrations or instability, that’s a problem. Test the cab controls: ensure levers are responsive, gauges work, and the AC/heater functions (you’ll thank yourself in extreme weather).
If you’re not a mechanic, bring tools or hire an expert. An OBD scanner works on newer models (2010+) to check engine codes. A hydraulic pressure gauge can test system pressure against the manufacturer’s specs. Use a magnetic drain plug tool to check for metal shavings—findings mean internal engine wear.
Negotiate the Price
Know the market value before you haggle. Use sites like MachineryTrader or Kelley Blue Book for Equipment to check average prices for similar models and hours. If a seller’s price is 20% above the norm, ask why—maybe they’ve made upgrades, or maybe they’re overpricing. Factor in any needed repairs: if the used excavator needs new tracks ($2,000) or a hydraulic hose ($500), offer a price that subtracts those costs.
Use clear communication when negotiating. Say something like, “I noticed the tracks are worn—would you be willing to knock $1,500 off to cover replacement costs?” Offering cash can also help; many sellers prefer cash deals and might accept a lower price to avoid fees. If the seller won’t budge, don’t be afraid to walk away—say you need to check other listings. Often, they’ll call back with a better offer.
Don’t forget to consider hidden costs. Shipping (if needed), taxes, and registration fees can add up. If the seller is local, you might save on shipping, but factor in any delivery charges if you can’t drive the excavator home. A smart negotiation includes all-in costs, not just the sticker price.
Handle Paperwork
Get a detailed bill of sale that includes the model, serial number, hour meter reading, and sale price. Include a clause stating the machine is “sold as-is” or specify any warranties provided. This document is your proof of purchase and protects you legally.
Conduct a title and lien search. Use services like EquipmentWatch to ensure the seller owns the used excavator outright, with no outstanding loans or liens. Buying a machine with a lien can lead to legal issues down the line—avoid this at all costs.
Insist on maintenance records. Ask for receipts of oil changes, part replacements, and major repairs. A used excavator with a detailed maintenance log is far more reliable than one without. If the seller can’t provide records, think twice—unless you’re prepared for potential repairs.
After-Sale Care: Keep Your Used Excavator Running
Find a local mechanic who specializes in heavy equipment. Ask other contractors for referrals or search online for “heavy equipment repair near me.” Building a relationship with a reliable mechanic means they’ll spot small issues before they become big, expensive problems. Avoid dealer service centers unless your excavator is under warranty—their labor rates are often higher.
Stock up on common parts. Buy oil filters, hydraulic hoses, belts, and filters from local parts stores. Having spares on hand saves time and money when something breaks on the job. Join online forums (like ExcavatorForum) to connect with other owners who might sell used parts at a discount.
Stick to a maintenance schedule. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for oil changes, fluid replacements, and inspections. Keeping a log of maintenance not only extends the machine’s life but also boosts its resale value when you’re ready to sell. A well-maintained used excavator is a smarter investment long-term.
Avoid These 3 Common Pitfalls
Don’t buy without an in-person inspection. Photos and videos can hide issues—always see the used excavator in person before committing. Ignoring this step is a surefire way to end up with a money pit.
Don’t overlook hidden costs. Taxes, registration, and unexpected repairs can blow your budget. Calculate all potential expenses before agreeing to a price.
Don’t rush the process. Take time to check multiple machines (at least 3-4) before making a decision. Rushing leads to bad choices, while patience helps you find the right used excavator for your needs.
Wrapping Up: Score a Reliable Ride
Buying a used excavator near you doesn’t have to be stressful—just do your homework. Start by finding local sellers, inspect the machine thoroughly, negotiate smartly, and handle paperwork properly. With a little effort, you’ll snag a reliable workhorse that saves you cash without the headache of shipping or hidden issues. Remember: a smart buy today means years of trouble-free operation tomorrow. Go find that perfect excavateur d'occasion and get to work!