Navigating Your Purchase

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This article about buying used excavators provides general information that can help guide your purchase.

Factoring in the total cost of ownership over the lifetime of the equipment is one way you can make an informed purchasing decision that will save you money in the long run. Ultimately, you want successful and profitable operations. In this article we discuss:
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• Preparing to buy
• Inspecting the equipment
• Job and site considerations
• Comparison criteria
• When you're ready to buy

For more information on excavators, check out Excavators: What You Need to Know.

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PREPARING to buy a used excavator

There is a lot involved when buying a used excavator. Here are six things to consider before you buy: 
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1. Technical Knowledge: If you don&#;t have technical expertise to fully evaluate the excavator, seek guidance and expertise elsewhere. You want to ensure that any piece of used equipment will stand up to the demands of the job and site.
2. Availability: Used excavators can be difficult to find, particularly if you are looking for a specific type or size. It may take time to find the right excavator for your project, and it may require a lot of searching.
3. Budget Constraints: Excavators can be expensive, so you may need to balance your need for quality equipment with any budget constraints. There are options you can pursue with lenders who specialize in used heavy equipment financing.
4. Logistics: Can be difficult to transport and could require specialized handling, which can add to the overall cost and complexity of the purchase.
5. Compatibility with attachments: If you plan to use attachments with your excavator, it is important to ensure that the attachment you need is compatible with the excavator. Some older excavators may not be able to support modern attachments.
6. Safety: The safe operation of an excavator requires specialized training and certification, and buyers must ensure that they have the necessary resources and personnel to operate the equipment safely.
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Inspecting the Excavator
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What you buy depends heavily on what you need the equipment to do, and where. The more you need to dig, the better the shape the excavator and attachments need to be in, and the more powerful it will need to be.
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When buying a used excavator look for wear and tear. Conduct a full walkaround of the machine if possible, and check for things such as:

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• Cracks, rust, dents
• Leaks or damage to the hydraulic lines and hoses
• Undercarriage, tracks, and bucket for excessive use
• Number of hours and the hours meter accuracy

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Job and Site Considerations
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To make sure you get the right excavator for the job and site, consider:  
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• Soil conditions: The type of soil on the job site will determine the type of excavator needed. For instance, rocky soil may require a hydraulic breaker attachment, while softer soil may require a larger bucket or a tilt-rotator attachment.
• Terrain: The terrain of the job site will determine the type of excavator tracks needed. Excavators with steel tracks are better for rough terrain, while rubber tracks are better for softer terrain and for jobs that require more maneuverability.
• Size of job site: The size of the job site will determine the size of the excavator needed. A larger job site may require a larger excavator, while a smaller job site may require a smaller excavator.
• Space limitations: The amount of space available on the job site will determine the size of the excavator needed. Excavators with shorter booms and smaller footprints are better for jobs with limited space.
• Depth of excavation: The depth of excavation required on the job site will determine the size and type of excavator needed. Excavators with longer booms and larger buckets are better for deeper excavations.
• Height of excavation: The height of excavation required on the job site will determine the height of the excavator needed. Excavators with higher reach are better for jobs that require excavating or moving materials to higher levels.
• Attachments: These need to be undamaged or without serious wear that could affect performance or life span. Attachments also need to be the right type and size, as well as compatible with the particular excavator you buy.
• Environmental factors: The environmental factors on the job site will determine the type of equipment needed. For instance, jobs in wet or muddy conditions may require an excavator with better traction, while jobs in dusty conditions may require an excavator with better air filtration.

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Excavator Comparison Criteria
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Once you have taken into account your project needs, you may want to compare the different excavator brands and models to determine how well they have stood the test of time. Comparison criteria includes:  
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• Size and weight: Excavators come in various sizes and weight classes, ranging from small compact models to larger heavy-duty machines. Aligning the excavator capabilities to the job means it will provide optimal work performance results.
• Engine power and performance: The engine power and performance of an excavator can affect its digging power, speed, and fuel efficiency. Compare engine specs and performance ratings to ensure that the machine has the power and speed needed to complete the job efficiently.
• Bucket capacity and digging depth: Excavators come with different bucket capacities and digging depths, which can affect the amount of material that can be moved and the depth of excavation possible.
• Hydraulic system and attachments: The hydraulic system powers the various attachments and tools, such as buckets, hammers, and thumbs. Compare the hydraulic system specs and attachments available to ensure that they can handle the types of work you will be doing.
• Cab comfort and safety features: The cab should be comfortable and safe for the operator, with features such as air conditioning, ergonomic controls, and safety devices like backup cameras and alarms.
• Maintenance requirements and costs: Excavators, like any equipment, require regular maintenance to ensure they run efficiently and last a long time. Servicing and replacement parts availability should also be considered in your decision.
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It is important to choose a brand with a strong reputation for quality and reliability. Some popular excavator manufacturers such as Caterpillar, Komatsu, Volvo, John Deere, and Hitachi are recognized as such and their used excavators stand the test of time. Check out our excavator category page to find out more and see what excavators we have available to buy now.
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When You're Ready to Buy

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Before purchasing any used heavy equipment, it is important to inspect the equipment and understand its condition, maintenance history, and any potential repair costs. It may also be beneficial to consult with a trusted mechanic or equipment expert before making a purchase.
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Searching for used excavators
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Finding the equipment you need can be time-consuming. Here are six ways to locate used excavators or any other heavy equipment for sale:
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1. Online marketplaces: There are many online marketplaces that specialize in buying and selling used equipment which allow you to search for equipment by type, brand, model, location, and price range.
2. Auction websites: Some auction websites specialize in selling used heavy equipment and allow you to search for equipment by category, manufacturer, location, and auction date.
3. Classified ads: You can also search for used equipment on classified ad websites where you can search for equipment by type, location, and price range.
4. Dealerships: Many equipment dealerships sell both new and used equipment. You can find local dealerships by doing a search online.
5. Industry publications: Trade publications often have classified ads for used equipment. You can also find equipment listings in these publications' online versions or print versions if you sign-up to receive them.
6. Social media: Some social media platforms have groups dedicated to buying and selling used equipment. You can search for these groups by using relevant keywords and joining groups that are relevant to your industry.
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Purchasing options
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Purchasing options include:
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• Dealerships: Many heavy equipment dealerships sell both new and used equipment. These dealerships may offer warranties or financing options for used equipment.
• Online marketplaces: Some online marketplaces specialize in selling used heavy equipment. Buyers can browse through listings and communicate directly with sellers.
• Auctions/Auction Houses: Heavy equipment auctions are another popular option for purchasing used equipment. Auctions may take place online or in person and offer a variety of equipment at competitive prices.
• Private sellers: Buyers can also purchase used equipment directly from private sellers. This may involve searching classified ads or reaching out to contacts within the industry.
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Equipment financing options
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If you need financing for your purchase, consider the following options:
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• Equipment financing companies: These companies may offer a variety of financing options, such as leases, loans, and lines of credit.
• Equipment dealerships: Some heavy equipment dealerships offer financing options for both new and used equipment. These dealerships may have relationships with financing companies or may offer in-house financing options.
• Banks and credit unions: These traditional lenders may offer options but may also have specific requirements and could require collateral for the loan.
• Online lenders: These lenders may offer more flexible terms and may be quicker to approve loans.
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It is important to compare interest rates, terms, and fees from multiple lenders. It is also important to have a good understanding of your financial situation and budget to ensure that you can make payments on time. Additionally, it could be beneficial to work with a financial advisor or equipment expert to determine the best financing option for your specific needs.

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Let the Experts at Black Star Help!
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The buying process takes a lot of thought and effort, and Black Star can make it easier for you. We have a proven track record of working with customers in a wide range of industries to provide information and equipment solutions that meet specific needs.

Our team&#;s industry expertise enables us to provide complete transparency and hold in-depth, technical discussions with interested buyers. We perform detailed inspections of all the equipment we sell and we have direct access to our sellers at every stage in the selling process. We also conduct extensive research and analysis on the latest industry trends and developments, enabling us to share valuable and trustworthy, unbiased and comprehensive information.

Our regular online auctions run on multiple platforms, depending on whether it&#;s a timed-online, or live virtual (auctioneer-led online). You can register to bid in advance on any of the sites so you are ready on auction day. To read more about online auction and how they work, click here.

If you are unable to locate a particular excavator to meet your needs now, we would be pleased to conduct a customized search. You can see all equipment we have available to buy now, and we also know of many contractors and business owners in our network that have equipment they want to sell when a buyer comes along.

We are strategically connected to many highly-regarded industry experts. Our reputation in the marketplace has a number of long-established and credible companies partnering with us to provide added value for our customers.

If you need to know more about what to look for and how to buy the right used excavator, need a suggestion for transportation, or want to explore financing options, contact our pros today.

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This article is our representation of useful information and is not intended to be a complete guide for making the right decision for your company. Ask our experts - or your own - for specific advice based on your unique circumstances.

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Want more information on excavator long reach attachments? Feel free to contact us.

Buying a Used Excavator: Tips & Inspection Guide

Purchasing heavy-duty equipment like mini excavators can be a daunting task, whether brand new from a dealer or used from a reseller or auction. A new excavator might be the best option for some, with used or second hand being the preferred option for others. Continue reading for an in-depth guide to buying used excavators, including a 5 step inspection list to help you decide which used machine is right for you.

4 Benefits of Buying a Used Excavator

1. Cost Savings

As you're probably aware, the biggest benefit of buying a used or second hand excavator is the lower upfront cost. For most businesses and individuals, the biggest restriction when buying machinery is the cost so purchasing a used excavator can be the best option for a more restricted budget. The lower upfront cost also gives you more options when it comes to purchasing additional buckets and attachments as the money you have saved on purchasing a new excavator can be invested back into the machine to improve your future projects.

2. Depreciation & Resale Value

Similarly to cars, excavators depreciate in value over time, with the biggest drop occurring within the first 1-2 years after purchase. Buying a used excavator avoids this meaning you're not losing large amounts of money. This price reduction means you will be able to invest in an excavator that is relatively new but doesn't have the hefty price tag of a brand new one. After the initial drop in value, an excavator will depreciate more slowly which means it's likely to retain a good proportion of its value if you come to resell it in the future (assuming that it has been maintained during ownership).

3. Proven Performance

You can check the track record of used excavators by researching the make and model and looking into reviews from existing owners. This information can provide insights into the machine's reliability and durability and help you determine whether it's going to be suitable for you. This is often not available for new excavators which can make investing a more dubious event.

4. Machine Variety & Availability

As new machine models are released, the selection and availability of used mini excavators and excavators in the market grows, giving you a larger selection of makes and models to choose from. It's also common for new models to have long delivery times compared to used excavators which are readily available at resellers and auction sites so if you're in urgent need, a used excavator might be the option for you.

3 Things to Consider When Buying a Used Excavator

When you're trying to determine what make and model of excavator you want to purchase, there are 3 main things to consider: Residual Value, Brand Reliability and Running & Maintenance Costs.

1. Residual Value

Residual value is how well the excavator holds its value over time. A machine that is cheap to purchase from new, will likely not hold its value meaning you will lose your money quicker. When purchasing machinery, you should consider the term 'you get what you pay for'. A brand with an initial cheaper price will likely face challenges down the line.

2. Brand Reliability

Brand reliability is how reliable the machine is known to be within the market. Some excavator makes are well known for their excellent performance. For example Kubota and Takeuchi are renowned for their reliability.

3. Running & Maintenance Costs

It's inevitable that at some point you will have to carry out maintenance and repairs on your excavator but how expensive these fixes will be will be determined by your machine make and model. For example the cost and availability of replacement parts can sometimes take longer and be more expensive to source, especially if the excavator is older or from an uncommon manufacturer.

5 Inspection Tips for Buying a Used Excavator

1. Machine Operating History

Year & Model - Make sure to check the important information about the excavator, including the year, make, model and serial number which can usually be located on the data plate. These details ensure that the information provided by the seller is accurate and will help you confirm that the excavator matches the description given.

Operating Hours - A 'good' level of hours can vary depending on the size and operations history of the excavator. A mini excavator that has done 3,000 hours may be considered 'tired', compared to a 20 ton / 40,000 lbs excavator with 3,000 hours depending on the work that the machine has been doing. If you're unsure about whether the hours are of a good level, we would recommend talking to a plant operator or someone with knowledge external to the seller for an unbiased opinion.

Service History - Make sure to ask for a clearly-documented service history, this will show if the excavator has been well maintained and regularly serviced. If the used machine doesn&#;t have a service history readily available, this could imply that there are underlying problems or that it hasn't been thoroughly looked after.

2. Inspecting the External Excavator Condition

General Machine Condition - the overall condition of the excavator will give a general indication of how well the machine has been looked after and its operation history. Check the state of the paintwork, decals, cleanliness, seat and dash condition. A clean and well looked after machine is often a good indication of proper maintenance and care.

Tires, Track & Undercarriage - Signs of dents, holes or oil residue can indicate improper care, misuse or internal damage. On a wheeled excavator, make sure the tires are in good condition, full of air and free of visible damage. Confirm with the seller how long the tyres have been in use to help determine if it's a good level of wear. For tracked excavators, make sure that the tracks have minimal wear or damage, that sprockets and idlers are in good condition and the track tension is firm.

3. Inspecting the Internal Excavator Condition

Battery - Prior to starting up the excavator make sure to check the condition of the battery and the expiration date. Ensure all wires and terminals are free from corrosion, rust or unusual fluids - these could be an indication of a leak.

Oil / Oil Filler Cap - Prior to starting the engine, check the oil level and condition. The excavator engine relies on proper lubrication to function optimally, so low oil levels and a clogged filler cap indicates poor maintenance or leak issues. Relatively clear oil indicates the oil has been recently serviced; black oil indicates it's probably been poorly serviced or maintained; and milky or beige coloured oil indicates there is moisture in the oil which could be an indication of a leaking head gasket.

4. Testing the Excavator Performance

Start-up Condition - When starting up the excavator, make sure to take note of start up speed. If the excavator stalls or excessively turns over there could be an issue. Check for excessive smoke when revved - white, black or blue-grey indicates a potential engine issue. A small puff of black smoke when first started or revved is usually ok.

Hydraulic Checks - Check all hydraulic systems, including the cylinders, pumps, hoses and connectors for signs of wear or damage (cracks, bulges or leaks). A leak can be a sign of damage or degeneration - an expensive and time-consuming issue to fix. Once running, use the joysticks and pedals to move the rams in each direction. Ensure each ram is being used to its full extent and hold it - e.g. pull the dipper arm in as far as it will go and hold it - this will put the hydraulic pump under load. If you hear the engine reduce in revs this could indicate a fuel issue.

Slew Ring - A slew ring mounts between the excavator cab and the undercarriage and enables the cab of the excavator to continuously spin as necessary. To check the functionality of the excavator slew ring, fully rotate the cab in both directions. Slew at full speed, suddenly stop and see how much the machine travels afterwards, the further the cab moves after stopping the more worn the ring.

Additional Specifications - If you're purchasing an excavator that has additional features like air conditioning, heating or a radio, you should check that these function as required as they will have an influence on excavator value and purchase price.

Buckets, Attachments & Hitches - If the excavator is being sold with buckets, attachments or a quick hitch, ensure that these fit and operate as required. Be sure to check with the seller whether your quick coupler is a mix & match hitch. If it is, the pin dimensions of your buckets and attachments will not match the machine make and model so this will be something you need to bear in mind when purchasing additional equipment. Make sure to also check the wear on your buckets, attachments and hitches to ensure they're not close to failure as this will be an additional cost in the future to replace them.

5. Considerations of the Sale / Seller

Comparison to the Listing - As you carry out your inspection of the excavator make sure to compare it to the information provided on the sales listing. If there are any obvious inaccuracies or large damages or faults missed from the listing, make sure to question the seller as this can help you negotiate a better price or include any presale fixes.

Warranty and support - Ensure all documentation is included with the excavator, including any user manuals and manufacturer warranty information. If you're purchasing from a reseller or dealership, we would recommend asking about any warranty, return policies and after-sale support options in case you face any issues after purchase.

So, now you should know what to look for when buying a used excavator. Always take the time to carefully examine every aspect of the machine, from the interior and exterior condition to the battery, hydraulics and additional features. If you're in any doubt, don't hesitate to ask questions and seek advice from experts to ensure you're making the best decision for yourself or your company.

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