Excavator Essentials – Should I Buy New Or Used?

When you need to carry out excavation work, whether it is at home or as part of a bigger project, you need to be sure that you can rely on your equipment. When you have project milestones to work to, it’s crucial that you can trust in the people around you and in the machinery you are using to get the job done on time. It’s also crucial that the job is not only completed on time but that all of your commitments are met. You want to ensure that each stage of the project is completed to spec so that you can continue with the next phase without any problems.

Whether you are going to hire an excavator or you have found a mini excavator for sale, it’s important that the equipment is reliable and capable of completing the job at hand. Depending on your budget you may choose to buy a new excavator, or alternatively, a second-hand machine might suffice for your needs. For most contractors, the choice will come down to a number of key factors such as budget, the scope of the project, and what functionality you need from the equipment. However, by taking the time to consider your options, you will be able to make the right decision for your needs.

Let’s take a closer look at a few things you need to consider when deciding between a new and used excavator.

Project Scope

Above all else, you need to consider what you are going to be using the excavator for and the amount of work you will be asking of it. If you are a pool installation company and are removing tonnes of earth every week as part of your work, you might decide to go with a newer machine. However, if you are a landscaper and you are using the excavator primarily for lighter work such as small foundations or ponds, a used digger will probably suffice. Be sure to consider the overall scope of your business when deciding between a new and a used machine and not just the current job. Once you know what you will require of the excavator going forward, you will be better able to decide on what the best choice will be for your needs.

Budget

Buying an excavator brand new will be much more expensive than buying a used machine. Larger machines cost more than smaller ones, and you should also take into consideration the various add-ons that you might require that will make the machine more expensive.

Alternatively, you can find a pretty good selection of used excavators on offer that might be a better choice for you. Ultimately, as with any major purchase, your decision is going to be dictated by your budget. Take some time to think about your ROI on the machine. For example, if a new excavator will allow you to work more efficiently and save you money on repairs in the long run compared with a used model and you have the funding available, then going for a new excavator might be the better choice.

Functionality

Newer excavators will come with more up-to-date technology on board which you may or may not need. Newer machines might offer better fuel efficiency and more productivity, however, depending on what you will be using the equipment for, you might not need the latest model.

Carry out some research online and look at what different options are available to you within your budget. Remember, just because some excavators come with certain functions, does not mean that you are going to use them. Be honest with yourself in terms of what you need the excavator to be able to do and you will quickly make the right call between new and used.

Should You Choose New Or Used?

With everything taken into consideration, whether you opt for a new excavator or a used model, will be dictated by a number of different factors. However, with some careful thought and honest analysis of your business needs, you will be able to make the right call.

Don’t forget to include the cost of any additional elements such as a trailer or different attachments that you might need in your overall budget. It’s also worth remembering that a new excavator will come with a warranty while a used machine will most likely not. Take some time to see what is available on the market in both new and used excavators and you will be able to make an informed decision as to which is the right option for you.