The current used excavator market is generally in a phase of "abundant supply, selective buyers." Transaction prices for mainstream 20-ton class machines are generally 5% to 10% lower than the same period last year, but equipment with good condition and genuine hours is still in demand. If you are planning to buy a used excavator, it is advisable to set aside 10% of your budget for reconditioning hydraulic parts and engine parts, and prioritize channels that can provide inspection reports and export documentation.
Current Used Excavator Market Conditions
Feedback from several large used construction machinery trading markets in East China and South China shows that from the second half of 2024 to early 2025, the number of used excavators listed for sale increased significantly, mainly from rental companies and individual owners who entered the market at high prices in previous years. With more supply, buyers have greater bargaining power, but the transaction cycle has actually lengthened—because everyone is hesitant to make a move, fearing they might buy a machine with rolled-back hours or major repairs.
In terms of prices, taking the 20-ton class with the largest market population as an example, Japanese brands such as Komatsu PC200 and Caterpillar 320, depending on year and hours, are quoted mainly between 180,000 and 350,000 RMB; domestic Sany SY215 and XCMG XE215 are around 120,000 to 220,000 RMB. For 30-ton class mining used excavators, such as Caterpillar 336 and Volvo EC300, the price range is even wider, from 350,000 to 700,000 RMB, depending mainly on the condition of the undercarriage, hydraulic pump, and engine.
- East China market: Most supply, fierce competition, relatively transparent prices, suitable for finding cost-effective models.
- South China market: Strong export demand, stable orders for used excavator exports to Southeast Asia, some models priced 3%-5% higher than domestic sales.
- Central and Western regions: Demand for mining trucks and large excavators is concentrated, models above 30 tons circulate quickly, but inspection resources are scarce, remote video inspection is recommended.
Popular Models and Price Ranges
Used excavators of different tonnages correspond to different working scenarios, and the pricing logic differs. Mini excavators (6-8 tons) are suitable for municipal and agricultural work, and their prices are most affected by new machine price cuts. A nearly new machine within three years may be less than 80,000 RMB cheaper than a new one, so it is advisable to calculate the new machine installment plan before buying. Medium excavators (20-25 tons) are the mainstay of the used market, with the best liquidity and quick resale. Large excavators (above 30 tons) are mainly for mining and large earthmoving, and buyers care more about the hydraulic system and engine overhaul records.
- Komatsu PC200-8: 2018-2020 machines, 6,000-9,000 hours, reference price 200,000-280,000 RMB.
- Caterpillar 320D2: 2017-2019 machines, 8,000-12,000 hours, reference price 250,000-360,000 RMB.
- Sany SY215C: 2019-2021 machines, 5,000-8,000 hours, reference price 140,000-200,000 RMB.
- Volvo EC210: 2016-2018 machines, 9,000-13,000 hours, reference price 180,000-260,000 RMB.
It should be noted that the above prices are based on the premise of normal machine condition and no major accidents. If the hydraulic pump has abnormal noise or the engine has heavy blow-by, the price should be reduced by at least 20,000-50,000 RMB, and subsequent repair costs are not low. Sanqi Machinery often encounters customers in the export process who bought "problem machines" for cheap, only to find that after replacing hydraulic parts and engine parts, the total cost exceeded the market average.
Key Points for Purchasing Used Excavators
When buying a used excavator, the inspection process cannot be skipped. If you are not knowledgeable, find a third-party inspection or entrust a trader with export experience to help inspect the machine. Focus on several areas:
- Hour meter authenticity: Check the computer board records and maintenance records, compare seat wear and whether the travel motor bolts are original.
- Hydraulic system: During the test run, perform combined operations to check for jamming or speed loss, and whether the hydraulic pump and distribution valve leak oil.
- Engine: Whether cold start is smooth, exhaust smoke color, blow-by, and whether there is gas leakage at the oil filler port.
- Undercarriage components: Wear degree of track links, track rollers, and drive sprockets; replacing a full set of undercarriage components is costly.
- Documentation and origin: Whether it is originally imported, whether there is a customs declaration, and whether export procedures can be processed.
In addition, buyers of used construction machinery exports should pay special attention to emission standards. Some countries in Southeast Asia and Africa accept China II and China III models, but the EU and North America have strict emission requirements. Confirm the destination regulations before buying, so you don't end up unable to export. Sanqi Machinery assists customers in verifying customs documents and original parts lists during import and export, reducing subsequent troubles.
Parts Supply and After-Sales Support
After buying a used excavator, the subsequent supply of hydraulic parts and engine parts is an unavoidable issue. For popular models such as Komatsu, Caterpillar, and Sany, parts channels are mature. Domestic replacement parts are cheap but vary in lifespan, while original parts are expensive but worry-free. It is advisable to ask clearly about the stock and prices of common wear parts when purchasing equipment, such as hydraulic pumps, travel motors, injectors, and cylinder liner kits. Some traders can provide parts package solutions, which are more cost-effective overall than buying separately.
In terms of after-sales, used equipment usually does not have the same warranty as new machines, but reliable sellers will provide 30 to 90 days of warranty on core components. Export orders also need to consider overseas service networks. If the destination has no service capability, it is best to stock a set of wear parts and ship them with the machine in advance.
FAQ
Are used excavator prices rising or falling now?
Overall, they are trending downward, with mainstream models 5%-10% lower than the same period last year, but equipment in good condition holds its price. The specific price depends on year, hours, and regional supply and demand.
How can I tell if the hours on a used excavator have been rolled back?
Check the computer board history records and maintenance documents, and compare the wear on the seat, joysticks, and travel motors. If necessary, ask a third party to read the ECU data.
What procedures are required to export a used excavator?
Generally, a customs declaration, certificate of origin, inspection report, and export license are required. Different countries also have emission and access requirements. It is recommended to entrust an experienced import and export company to handle it.
What parts should be replaced immediately after buying a used excavator?
It is recommended to prioritize checking hydraulic oil, filters, engine oil, and belts. If the hours exceed 8,000, consider replacing hydraulic pump seals and travel motor oil seals.
Are mining trucks and large excavators easy to buy in the used market?
Supply for models above 30 tons is relatively scarce, mainly concentrated in mining areas. Price ranges are wide. It is recommended to inspect on site and verify overhaul records and structural welding repairs.
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