Excavator Size Classes Explained

Mini (Compact) Excavators, Under 6 Metric Tons

Minis have an operating weight under about 6 t (13,000 lb), dig depths of roughly 2.1–4 m (7–13 ft), and engine power of 15–50 hp. Typical models include the Bobcat E35 and E50, Kubota KX040 and U55, John Deere 35G and 50G, Cat 303.5–305, Takeuchi TB240–TB260, and the Yanmar ViO series.

Minis are best for residential landscaping, irrigation and utility trenching, footings, pools, stump removal, and work inside structures or behind houses. Most minis fit through a standard gate, and many are under 1.8 m (6 ft) wide. You can tow one on a 10,000-lb-rated equipment trailer behind a heavy pickup. Many states require no CDL for that, but verify the combined weight ratings.

Minis have limits. Dig depth tops out around 3.5–4 m, so a full-depth basement (typically a 2.4–3 m dig plus over-dig) is a stretch at the far wall. Lifting capacity and bucket size make big jobs slow.

Midi Excavators, 6 to 10 Metric Tons

Midis have dig depths of about 4–4.8 m (13–16 ft), power of 50–75 hp, and a transport width of 2.2–2.3 m. Typical models include the Kubota KX080, Cat 308, Deere 85G, and Volvo ECR88.

This is the sweet spot for utility contractors. A midi has enough depth for most sewer and water laterals and shallow foundations, and it is still transportable on a tag trailer behind a medium-duty truck without oversize permits. Most midis are reduced-tail-swing designs, so they work well on road jobs and tight lots.

Standard (Full-Size) Excavators, 10 to 25 Metric Tons

The 20-ton class is the industry's general-purpose machine. Examples include the Cat 320, Komatsu PC210, Deere 210G, Volvo EC220, Hitachi ZX210, Case CX210, and Doosan DX225. Expect dig depths of about 6.5–6.8 m (21–22 ft), reach of about 9.7–9.9 m, 145–175 hp, and a bucket around 1 m³. These machines handle basements, mass excavation for commercial pads, deep utilities, and demolition with the right attachments.

For transport, plan on about 2.8–3.0 m of width and 21–24 t. That needs a lowboy or RGN trailer and a tractor, and you may need over-width or over-weight permits depending on the state. Factor in $500–2,000 per move.

Large Excavators, Over 25 Metric Tons

Machines of 30–50 t, such as the Cat 336 and 349, Komatsu PC360, and Deere 350G, suit mass excavation, deep sewers, quarry work, and heavy demolition. They have dig depths of 7.3–7.7 m or more and 250–415 hp. Every move is a permitted oversize or overweight load. Owning one only pays with sustained production work.

Long-Reach Variants

Factory long-reach (LR) configurations trade bucket size and breakout force for a longer boom and stick. Reach can exceed 15 m on a 20–36 t base. These machines are used for pond and canal dredging, slope work, and demolition from a distance. A long-reach machine is a poor general excavator. When a listing's reach number looks unusually high for its weight class, check whether the machine is an LR.

General guidance to help you shop — figures are typical ranges, not a valuation. Confirm the specifics of any machine with the seller before you buy.