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How to Choose the Right Size Excavator

Sep. 2 2021 Buying Guide By RECO Equipment

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An excavator is a pretty serious investment, so you need to consider the right size carefully. If you under-buy, you will have a machine that doesn’t have the capacity and power your work demands. If you over-buy, you’ll have a very expensive machine that is too big to access some jobs, and much harder to move around. How do you find the sweet spot?

If you’re excavator shopping, please come in and talk to the team at RECO Equipment. We’ve got 13 locations, mostly in the Ohio and Pennsylvania areas, and six Bobcat of Pittsburgh locations. Our experienced sales staff can help you evaluate your options and make the right decision. 

Excavators can be divided into four main size categories: mini, midi, standard, and large. 

Mini or Compact Excavators

The smallest class, mini or compact excavators, weigh less than six tons and are best for small spaces. These can access tight quarters and even be used indoors. They are relatively easy to transport on a Class 1 or Class 2 truck, which in many states (but not all!) don’t require a Commercial Driver’s License.  

Good for: Multiple locations, sewer repairs, water line installations, small projects, and indoor projects. 

Midi Excavator

Midi excavators range from 6–10 tons. These are versatile middle-of-the-road options

Good for: Small spaces that demand more reach and power than a mini excavator can provide; small to mid-sized construction projects that require good maneuverability and moderate power.

Standard or Crawler Excavators

At 10–45 tons, this is the most common size category for commercial construction, and machines in the 19-24 ton range are the most popular of these. Their sheer size ensures greater power and more reach, and they have hydraulic systems that make them capable of handling multiple tool attachments.

Good for: Large construction and demolition projects

Large Excavators

Large excavators are more than 45 tons, and these monsters are too big for lots of jobs. They require oversized trucks to get to and from the worksite, and big storage sites. 

Good for: Major construction and demolition projects. 

Deciding Factors

When you are considering excavator options, you will calculate your project’s or business’s needs from a few critical perspectives. Think about: 

  • Budget: How often will you use your excavator? How much will storage and maintenance cost? Should you rent instead of buying?
  • Worksite Conditions: Are your projects often in tight spaces? How often will the excavator be driven on roads? Are you prepared to accept the hassle of transporting a larger machine? 
  • Digging depth: How deep are most of your digs? Do you anticipate larger projects? Do you want the option of using different-length boom attachments? 
  • Lifting Capacity: How often will you use your excavator for lifting? What is the heaviest material you can move? Will future projects demand greater lifting capacity? 
  • Counterweight: Does the machine come with a counterweight that matches your lift requirements? Are counterweight attachments available? 
  • Bucket Capacity: What size materials do you need to move? Can you swap out the existing bucket for one of a different size?

We hope this provides a useful overview of your excavator options. For assistance in figuring out the right excavator for your team and your business, please reach out to our team at RECO Equipment. We’ve been serving the Midwest construction industry since 1983, and we’d love to make you a satisfied customer. Come to one of our dealerships in Ohio, Pennsylvania, and the surrounding states.