First machine for a small landscaping business: mini excavator or compact track loader?
Buying & Selling Advice · 0 replies · 4 views
A Alexey Puzanov Editor started the topic
This is one of the most common questions we receive, so here is our take to start the discussion.
If most of your work is digging (drainage, footings, tree planting, small ponds), a 2.5–3.5 tonne mini excavator is the more useful first machine. With a tilt bucket and a thumb it can also grade, load small dumpers and handle rocks.
If most of your work is moving material (soil, mulch, gravel, pallets of paving) and grading lawns, a compact track loader will earn more per hour, and the attachment range (augers, harrows, pallet forks, sweepers) is huge.
Things to consider:
- Transport: a 3-tonne mini and trailer is usually easier to move than a 4–5 tonne CTL.
- Ground conditions: CTLs shine on soft lawns; skid steers are cheaper on hard surfaces (see skid steer vs CTL).
- Many landscapers end up with both, buying the second machine once the first is fully booked.
What did you buy first, and would you do it again?