How Much Does Heavy Equipment Cost? New, Used and Rental Price Ranges
Typical price ranges for excavators, dozers, loaders, backhoes, skid steers, cranes and tractors, new and used, plus what drives prices and how much rental costs.
Heavy equipment prices vary enormously by size, brand, specification, market and the state of the economy. The figures below are indicative ranges in US dollars for new machines with typical specifications in North America and Europe. Use them to plan budgets, then get quotes from dealers.
Typical new equipment prices
| Machine | Typical new price range (USD) |
|---|---|
| Mini excavator 1.5–4 t | 30,000–85,000 |
| Excavator 20–23 t | 150,000–350,000 |
| Excavator 35–45 t | 350,000–650,000 |
| Skid steer loader | 45,000–90,000 |
| Compact track loader | 60,000–130,000 |
| Backhoe loader | 100,000–160,000 |
| Wheel loader 18–25 t | 250,000–500,000 |
| Bulldozer D6 class | 400,000–600,000 |
| Motor grader | 250,000–450,000 |
| Articulated dump truck 40 t | 500,000–700,000 |
| Telehandler 4 t / 17 m | 100,000–180,000 |
| Tractor 200–300 hp | 200,000–400,000 |
| Combine harvester high-capacity | 600,000–1,000,000+ |
| Mining truck ultra-class | 5,000,000+ |
What drives price
- Brand: premium brands cost more but often hold value better.
- Technology: factory machine control, payload systems and premium cabs can add 10–20%.
- Emissions standard: Tier 4 Final / Stage V engines with aftertreatment add cost.
- Configuration: longer booms, wider tracks, special guarding, high-flow hydraulics.
- Market conditions: interest rates, steel prices and demand.
Used equipment prices
Well-maintained used machines typically sell for 40–70% of the new price after 3–5 years, depending on hours and condition. Read our used excavator inspection checklist before buying.
Rental rates
As a rough guide in North America: mini excavators US$250–450 per day; skid steers US$250–400 per day; 20-tonne excavators US$800–1,500 per day; monthly rates are significantly cheaper per day.
Total cost of ownership
The purchase price is only part of the story. Fuel, maintenance, wear parts, insurance and financing often exceed the purchase price over a machine's life. See rent, lease or buy.
Frequently asked questions
Why is heavy equipment so expensive?
Machines are built in relatively low volumes from heavy steel structures, large engines, complex hydraulics and electronics, and must meet strict safety and emissions regulations.
