Average Price of a Used Excavator in Canada (2025)
Used excavator prices in Canada range from $15,000 to $400,000 depending on size class, brand, year, and hours. Mini excavators typically sell for $20,000 to $90,000, mid-size machines like the Cat 320 run $60,000 to $280,000, and large excavators start around $120,000. Prices have normalized 10-20% below 2022-2023 peaks but remain above pre-2020 levels.
Whether you are buying your first excavator or adding to your fleet, knowing what machines actually sell for is the first step to making a smart purchase. Used excavator pricing in Canada is not a mystery, but it does vary widely depending on the brand, model, year, hours, condition, and where you are buying. A used mini excavator can cost $20,000 or $80,000 depending on the specifics. A used full-size machine can range from $60,000 to $400,000 or more.
This guide lays out current market pricing for used excavators across all size classes, breaks down the factors that drive those prices, and explains how the price of the machine affects your financing options. No fluff — just the numbers and context you need to evaluate whether the deal in front of you is fair.
Price Ranges by Size Class
Let us start with the big picture. Used excavator prices in Canada fall into three broad categories based on machine size.
Mini Excavators (Under 10 Tons): $15,000 - $95,000
Mini excavators are the entry point for many contractors and the workhorses for residential construction, landscaping, utility work, and tight-space excavation. The price range is wide because this category includes everything from a 1.5-ton Kubota U17 to a 9-ton Cat 308.
What your budget gets you:
| Budget Range | What You Can Expect |
|---|---|
| $15,000-25,000 | 8-12 year old machine, 4,000-7,000+ hours, brands like Kubota, Bobcat, Takeuchi. Functional but expect some wear. |
| $25,000-40,000 | 5-8 year old machine, 2,500-5,000 hours. Good selection from all major brands. This is where most first-time buyers land. |
| $40,000-60,000 | 3-6 year old machine, 1,500-3,500 hours. Late model, low hours. Near-new condition from many brands. |
| $60,000-95,000 | 1-3 year old machine, under 2,000 hours. Essentially a slightly used new machine. Cat 308, Kubota KX080 territory. |
Mid-Size Excavators (10-30 Tons): $60,000 - $280,000
This is where most commercial contractors operate. The Cat 320, Komatsu PC210, John Deere 210G, Volvo EC220, and Hitachi ZX210 are the benchmark machines in this class. Prices are higher because these machines are larger, more capable, and hold their value exceptionally well.
What your budget gets you:
| Budget Range | What You Can Expect |
|---|---|
| $60,000-100,000 | 8-14 year old machine, 6,000-12,000 hours. Older but functional Cat 320s, Komatsu PC200s. Good value if condition checks out. |
| $100,000-150,000 | 5-9 year old machine, 4,000-8,000 hours. Solid working machines with years of life remaining. Most popular price range. |
| $150,000-220,000 | 3-6 year old machine, 2,000-5,000 hours. Late model, low hours. Near top condition. |
| $220,000-280,000 | 1-3 year old machine, under 2,500 hours. Nearly new. Premium pricing for premium condition. |
Full-Size Excavators (30+ Tons): $120,000 - $500,000+
The big machines for large commercial projects, heavy demolition, mining, and major earthmoving. Cat 330, Cat 336, Cat 349, Komatsu PC360, Komatsu PC490, John Deere 350G, and Hitachi ZX350 are the main players.
What your budget gets you:
| Budget Range | What You Can Expect |
|---|---|
| $120,000-180,000 | 8-14 year old machine, 8,000-15,000 hours. Older but heavy-duty. Cat 330/336 territory. |
| $180,000-280,000 | 5-9 year old machine, 5,000-10,000 hours. Good working condition, plenty of life remaining. |
| $280,000-400,000 | 3-6 year old machine, 3,000-7,000 hours. Late model, excellent condition. |
| $400,000-550,000+ | 1-3 year old machine, under 3,000 hours. Near new. Cat 349, Komatsu PC490 class. |
Detailed Price Tables by Model
Here are more specific pricing ranges for the most common excavator models in the Canadian market. These represent typical asking prices — actual transaction prices may be 5-10% lower after negotiation.
Mini Excavator Pricing
| Model | Year Range | Hours Range | Price Range (CAD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bobcat E20 | 2018-2021 | 1,500-3,500 | $22,000-38,000 |
| Bobcat E35 | 2018-2022 | 1,200-3,500 | $32,000-55,000 |
| Bobcat E50 | 2018-2022 | 1,500-4,000 | $42,000-68,000 |
| Cat 303.5 | 2018-2022 | 1,200-3,000 | $38,000-62,000 |
| Cat 305.5 | 2018-2022 | 1,500-3,500 | $48,000-72,000 |
| Cat 308 | 2019-2023 | 1,000-3,000 | $40,000-95,000 |
| Kubota KX040 | 2017-2022 | 1,500-4,000 | $28,000-52,000 |
| Kubota KX080 | 2018-2022 | 1,500-3,500 | $35,000-90,000 |
| John Deere 35G | 2017-2021 | 1,500-4,000 | $26,000-45,000 |
| John Deere 60G | 2018-2022 | 1,500-3,500 | $38,000-60,000 |
| Takeuchi TB240 | 2017-2021 | 1,500-4,000 | $25,000-42,000 |
| Takeuchi TB260 | 2018-2022 | 1,500-3,500 | $38,000-58,000 |
Mid-Size Excavator Pricing
| Model | Year Range | Hours Range | Price Range (CAD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cat 320 (all variants) | 2012-2016 | 5,000-10,000 | $70,000-120,000 |
| Cat 320 (all variants) | 2017-2020 | 3,000-7,000 | $120,000-195,000 |
| Cat 320 (all variants) | 2021-2023 | 1,500-4,000 | $195,000-265,000 |
| Cat 325 | 2019-2023 | 2,000-5,000 | $190,000-275,000 |
| Komatsu PC210 | 2014-2018 | 4,000-9,000 | $75,000-135,000 |
| Komatsu PC210 | 2019-2023 | 2,000-5,000 | $140,000-225,000 |
| John Deere 210G | 2016-2020 | 3,000-7,000 | $90,000-160,000 |
| John Deere 210G | 2021-2023 | 1,500-4,000 | $160,000-240,000 |
| Volvo EC220 | 2017-2021 | 3,000-7,000 | $100,000-175,000 |
| Hitachi ZX210 | 2016-2020 | 3,000-7,000 | $85,000-155,000 |
| Kobelco SK210 | 2016-2020 | 3,000-7,000 | $80,000-145,000 |
Full-Size Excavator Pricing
| Model | Year Range | Hours Range | Price Range (CAD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cat 330 | 2014-2018 | 5,000-10,000 | $130,000-210,000 |
| Cat 330 | 2019-2023 | 2,500-6,000 | $220,000-350,000 |
| Cat 336 | 2015-2019 | 5,000-10,000 | $160,000-260,000 |
| Cat 336 | 2020-2023 | 2,000-5,000 | $280,000-420,000 |
| Cat 349 | 2017-2021 | 4,000-8,000 | $280,000-420,000 |
| Komatsu PC360 | 2015-2019 | 5,000-10,000 | $150,000-250,000 |
| Komatsu PC490 | 2016-2020 | 5,000-9,000 | $220,000-380,000 |
| John Deere 350G | 2017-2021 | 4,000-8,000 | $180,000-310,000 |
| Hitachi ZX350 | 2016-2020 | 4,000-9,000 | $160,000-280,000 |
Key takeaway: Brand matters significantly in pricing. Cat consistently commands a 10-20% premium over comparable Komatsu, John Deere, or Hitachi models of the same year and hours. This premium reflects Cat's stronger resale market and dealer network, but it also means you get more back when you sell.
Factors That Affect Used Excavator Pricing
Understanding why two seemingly similar machines are priced differently helps you evaluate deals and negotiate effectively.
Hours on the machine. This is the number one price driver for used excavators. Every 1,000 hours above or below average for the age shifts the price. Our guide on excavator hours explains the thresholds and what they mean in detail. As a rough guideline:
| Hours vs. Average for Age | Price Impact |
|---|---|
| Well below average (50%+ less) | +15-25% premium |
| Slightly below average | +5-10% premium |
| Average | Base market price |
| Slightly above average | -5-10% discount |
| Well above average (50%+ more) | -15-25% discount |
| Extremely high (double or more) | -30-50% discount |
Condition and maintenance. Two machines with the same year, model, and hours can be priced $20,000-50,000 apart based on condition. A machine with full service records, fresh paint, tight pins and bushings, and good undercarriage condition commands a premium. A machine with no records, leaky cylinders, worn tracks, and a cracked windshield sells at a steep discount.
Attachments and configuration. A machine sold with a quick coupler, two or three buckets, and a hydraulic thumb is worth more than a bare machine with a single bucket. Thumb kits alone add $5,000-15,000 to the value. GPS/grade control systems add $10,000-30,000 depending on the system.
Geographic location. Excavator prices vary across Canada. Machines in construction-heavy markets like the GTA, Calgary, and Vancouver tend to be priced higher due to demand. Machines in smaller markets or less active construction regions may be priced lower. Transportation costs between provinces can add $2,000-8,000 to the effective price of a machine bought out of province.
Emissions tier. Tier 4 Final machines (generally 2015+ for most brands) are worth more than Tier 3 machines because they meet current emissions standards without workarounds. Some municipal and government contracts require Tier 4 Final equipment, which limits the market for older machines.
Market timing. Used excavator prices are seasonal. Prices tend to peak in spring (March-May) when construction season ramps up and everyone is buying. Prices dip in late fall and winter (November-February) when demand drops. Buying in the off-season can save you 5-15% on the same machine.
New equipment availability. When new excavators are backordered or on long lead times (as happened during 2021-2023), used prices spike because buyers who cannot get a new machine turn to the used market. When new equipment is readily available, used prices moderate.
Where to Buy: Dealer vs. Private vs. Auction
Each buying channel has different pricing dynamics, advantages, and risks.
Equipment Dealers
Typical pricing: Full retail. Dealers price at or near market value and have less room to negotiate because they have overhead (lot, staff, warranty reserves) to cover.
Advantages:
- Machines are usually inspected and serviced before sale
- Some form of warranty or guarantee is common (30-90 days, powertrain)
- Financing is easier — lenders prefer dealer purchases
- The dealer handles title, lien clearances, and paperwork
- You can test the machine before buying
- Trade-ins are accepted
Disadvantages:
- Highest prices of the three channels
- Less room for negotiation
- Dealer markup adds 15-25% over what they paid for the machine
Best for: Contractors who want a clean, known-quantity transaction and are financing the purchase. The premium is the cost of reduced risk.
Private Sellers
Typical pricing: 5-15% below dealer pricing for comparable machines. Private sellers do not have dealer overhead, and motivated sellers (retiring contractors, companies downsizing) may price aggressively.
Advantages:
- Lower prices than dealers
- More room for negotiation, especially with motivated sellers
- Can sometimes get a great deal on a well-known machine
- You can see the machine in its working environment and talk to the operator
Disadvantages:
- No warranty — you buy it as-is
- Financing requires more verification (PPSA searches, appraisals, inspections)
- Higher risk of undisclosed problems
- Title and lien issues are more common
- The seller may not wait for financing to come through
Best for: Experienced buyers who know what to look for and have the ability to evaluate a machine's condition. Our used excavator financing guide covers the process for financing private-party purchases.
Auctions (Ritchie Bros., IronPlanet, etc.)
Typical pricing: 10-20% below dealer pricing, but highly variable. Auction prices depend on who shows up and how badly they want the machine. Some machines sell below value; others go above when two bidders get competitive.
Advantages:
- Potential for deals significantly below market value
- Large selection of equipment in one place
- Transparent bidding process
- Ritchie Bros. provides inspection reports on most machines
Disadvantages:
- Sold as-is, where-is, no warranty
- Limited inspection time before the auction
- Cannot test the machine in most cases (some auctions allow brief operation)
- Buyer's premium adds 10-15% on top of the hammer price (a $100,000 hammer price becomes $110,000-115,000 after the premium)
- Financing needs to be arranged in advance — you need to know your budget before bidding
- You might get caught up in bidding and overpay
- Transportation must be arranged separately
Best for: Contractors who know equipment well, have financing pre-arranged, and can attend in person to inspect machines before bidding. Also good for deals on older or higher-hour machines that dealers do not want to carry.
Key takeaway: Dealers give you safety and convenience at a premium price. Private sellers offer savings but require more due diligence. Auctions can be the cheapest option but come with the most risk. Factor in the buyer's premium at auctions — that 10-15% often eliminates the apparent price advantage.
How Price Affects Financing
The purchase price of the excavator directly impacts your financing in several ways.
Loan-to-value ratio (LTV). Lenders compare the amount you want to borrow against the machine's appraised or market value. If you are buying at or below market value, the LTV is favorable and the lender is comfortable. If you are overpaying — buying a machine for $130,000 that is worth $100,000 — the lender will only lend based on the actual value, and you will need to cover the difference out of pocket.
Down payment calculations. Your down payment is typically a percentage of the purchase price. A $200,000 machine at 15% down requires $30,000. A $120,000 machine at 15% down requires $18,000. Buying a lower-priced machine means less cash tied up in the down payment, which you can use for working capital.
Monthly payments. Obviously, a lower purchase price means a lower amount financed, which means lower monthly payments. But do not forget that price and terms interact. A cheap, old, high-hour machine might require a higher interest rate and a shorter term, which can result in a similar monthly payment to a more expensive, newer machine with better terms. Compare our rate guide for the full picture.
Minimum financing amounts. Most equipment lenders have a minimum financing threshold of $15,000-25,000. If you are buying a mini excavator for $20,000 with 20% down, you are financing $16,000 — which might be near or below some lenders' minimums. Know the minimums before you shop.
Here is how the same monthly budget gets you different machines with different financing scenarios:
| Monthly Payment Budget | Machine Option A | Machine Option B |
|---|---|---|
| ~$2,500/month | 2018 Cat 320, $155,000, 8.5% rate, 6-yr term, 10% down | 2013 Cat 320, $85,000, 13% rate, 3-yr term, 15% down |
| ~$1,500/month | 2019 Kubota KX080, $65,000, 9% rate, 4-yr term, 10% down | 2016 Cat 305.5, $45,000, 11% rate, 3-yr term, 10% down |
| ~$4,000/month | 2020 Cat 330, $275,000, 8% rate, 6-yr term, 10% down | 2016 Cat 336, $185,000, 12% rate, 4-yr term, 15% down |
What to Watch for in Pricing
Prices significantly below market. If a 2020 Cat 320 with 3,000 hours is listed for $110,000 when comparable machines are $180,000+, something is wrong. The machine may have undisclosed damage, liens, a salvage title, or it could be a scam. Always verify serial numbers on machines priced below market.
Prices significantly above market. Some dealers and private sellers price aggressively high, expecting negotiation. Use the pricing tables in this guide and comparable listings to anchor your negotiations. A machine priced 15-20% above market is a starting point for negotiation, not a walk-away. A machine priced 30%+ above market is either unrealistic or the seller is not motivated.
Bundled attachments inflating the price. Make sure you know what is included. A machine listed at $140,000 with three buckets, a thumb, and a quick coupler is priced differently than one at $140,000 with a single bucket. Ask for an itemized breakdown if attachments are included.
Currency differences on US-sourced machines. Some machines listed for sale in Canada were imported from the US. The listed price should reflect the Canadian dollar cost including any duties, taxes, and importation fees. Make sure you are comparing Canadian dollar prices across all options.
Buyer's premiums at auction. The auction hammer price is not your purchase price. Add the buyer's premium (typically 10-15%), any applicable taxes, and transportation costs to get the true cost. A machine that hammers at $95,000 at Ritchie Bros. could cost $108,000-112,000 all-in before transport.
Negotiating Used Excavator Prices
Negotiation is expected in the used equipment market. Here are practical tips:
Know the market. Use the pricing tables in this guide, check Ritchie Bros. past auction results (available on their website), and look at comparable listings on Equipment Trader, Kijiji, and dealer websites. Walk into a negotiation knowing what the machine is worth.
Point to specific issues. If the undercarriage is at 60% life, that is a future cost. If the paint is rough, that affects resale. If the hours are above average for the year, that reduces value. Use specific observations to justify a lower offer — do not just ask for a discount.
Be ready to walk away. The most powerful negotiating tool is the willingness to walk away. If the seller knows you have other options, they are more likely to negotiate.
Time your purchase. Buying in November or December when the market is slow gives you more negotiating power than buying in April when every contractor is looking for machines.
Cash (or quick closing) has value. If you have financing pre-approved and can close in days rather than weeks, that is worth something to the seller. Let them know you are a serious, ready buyer.
Next Steps
Knowing market prices puts you in a strong position whether you are buying from a dealer, a private seller, or at auction. When you find a machine at the right price, the next step is making sure you can finance it on terms that work for your business.
At IronFinance, we help contractors across Canada finance used excavators of every brand, age, and hour range. Whether you are looking at a $35,000 mini or a $350,000 full-size machine, we match your deal with the right lender and help you understand the total cost — not just the sticker price.
Sources: MachineryTrader, MarketBook.ca, Ritchie Bros, IronPlanet. Prices verified March 2026.
For more on excavator financing, check out our complete guide to financing an excavator, our breakdown of how excavator hours affect value and financing, or our guide on financing older equipment if you are considering a machine that is 10+ years old.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a used mini excavator cost in Canada?
Used mini excavators in Canada range from about $15,000 for an older, higher-hour machine (2014-2016 with 5,000+ hours) to $90,000+ for a late-model, low-hour unit like a 2022 Cat 308. The sweet spot for most contractors is $30,000-60,000, which gets you a 3-7 year old mini excavator from a major brand with moderate hours.
Are used excavator prices going up or down in Canada?
After peaking in 2022-2023 due to supply chain disruptions that made new machines hard to get, used excavator prices have gradually normalized. Prices in 2025 are still above pre-2020 levels but have come down 10-20% from the peak. The market is healthier now with more inventory available, giving buyers more negotiating power.
Is it cheaper to buy a used excavator at auction or from a dealer?
Auction prices are typically 10-20% lower than dealer prices for comparable machines, but auctions come with no warranty, limited inspection time, and no after-sale support. Dealers charge more but usually offer some form of warranty or guarantee, allow thorough inspections, and make financing easier. For contractors financing their purchase, the dealer route is often smoother and the slightly higher price is offset by easier lending.
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