Excavators introduction

So many jobs start with digging – from construction and utility work to paving and landscaping – that all kinds of businesses rely on full-sized excavators for their day-to-day operations. Independent contractors with one excavator as well as large construction firms with a fleet of several agree that they're one of the most useful pieces of construction equipment you can buy.

All manufacturers define their segments slightly differently, but there are three general classes of excavators to consider. Standard full-sized excavators range from about 20,000 lbs and 75 HP to 80,000 lbs and 220 HP, or from around 10 to 40 metric tons. Many manufacturers also offer high-end machines that top 150,000 lbs and 400 HP, but these huge machines are far beyond most buyers' needs. At the opposite end of the size spectrum, mini excavators provide great digging power in small packages – down to 3,000 lbs and 15 HP, and at much lower initial and operating costs. Read our Mini Excavator Buyer's Guide for more details.

This BuyerZone Excavators Buyer's Guide provides all the essentials you need to know before buying a full-sized excavator:

• How to choose the right size
• What features to look for
• How to choose a dealer
• How much you can expect to pay

Once you determine what best fits your needs, we can provide you with free custom quotes from multiple excavator suppliers in your area.