Mini Excavators: What You Need to Consider

When it comes to selecting the perfect mini excavators for your project, understanding the various types and sizes available is crucial. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned professional, this guide will help you navigate the world of mini excavators, including the versatile MXG XE10 Mini Trackhoe we stock here at the Big Man Trailer Co.

Understanding Mini Excavator Types

Different jobs call for different excavator models depending on the level of performance and productivity needed for the job. Mini excavators come in three primary types:

1. Standard Tail Swing: These are traditional mini excavators are designed with a rear end that extends beyond the tracks when turning. They are versatile and common in many projects.
2. Zero Tail Swing: Perfect for tight and confined spaces, this style of excavator features a rear end that does not extend beyond the tracks, offering greater maneuverability in restricted areas.
3. Compact Excavators: These are the smallest and most agile, ideal for light tasks such as landscaping and minor demolition.

Each type of mini excavator offers unique advantages and features, making them suitable for various projects. For those seeking efficient and compact solutions, MXG excavators present an optimal choice with both standard tail swing and zero tail swing options that combine agility with power.

Choosing the Right Size

Size matters when selecting a mini excavator. Here’s a quick breakdown of the standard mini excavator sizes and their applications:

• 0.8 to 1.2 tonnes: Ideal for landscaping and light tasks.
• 1.2 to 2.5 tonnes: Suitable for small construction projects and foundation digging.
• 2.5 to 3.5 tonnes: Great for medium-sized construction and trenching.
• 3.5 to 5.5 tonnes: Best suited for heavy-duty tasks like demolition and large area excavation.

Our range of MXG excavators come in various sizes, from the nimble 1t XE20 to the powerful 2.7t SE27U, ensuring a perfect match and a compact solution for your specific project needs.

Wet Hire vs. Dry Hire

When renting mini excavators, you can choose between wet hire (with an operator) and dry hire (operating it yourself). Wet hire is recommended for those less experienced or without proper licensing, while dry hire is suitable for licensed, experienced contractors. Wet hire costs can range from $115 to $270 an hour, while dry hire costs will generally be anywhere from $40 to $180 an hour.

Safety First

Safety is paramount when operating mini excavators. Always wear the right protective gear and adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Ensure the load capacity is never exceeded and that the work area is clear of obstacles and bystanders, especially if you will be swinging the excavator arm to load or unload material.

The Benefits of Mini Excavators

Mini excavators offer several advantages over larger alternatives that make them an appealing option for a range of projects.

Ease of Transport

The reduced weight and compact size of mini excavators makes them easy to transport both to and from a job site, often requiring only a simple and lightweight plant trailer in place of large trucks and specialist equipment. This has an additional cost benefit by eliminating the need for expensive equipment hire.

Reduced Worksite Damage

The lower operating weight of a mini excavator also leads to reduced worksite damage. This aspect makes mini excavators an appealing option in sensitive sites where disturbance and destruction need to be kept to a minimum, such as residential areas, where there is often existing landscaping or infrastructure that needs to be preserved.

Lower Operating Costs

As well as the flow-on cost benefits that mini excavators offer through their ease of transport, they have substantially lower operating costs than large excavators. Not only are mini excavators cheaper to hire, but they also consume far less fuel and are generally cheaper and easier to repair in the event of a breakdown.

Exceptional Versatility

Mini excavators such as our selection of MXG excavators come with a range of attachments including rakes, rippers, auger drives and several different bucket sizes, allowing you to adapt to the needs of the job at hand without having to switch machines.

Unmatched Manoeuvrability and Accessibility

Due to their compact size and dimensions, mini excavators can access and manoeuvre in spaces where larger machines would struggle. This ease of access makes them ideal for job sites with narrow openings (such as down the side of a house) or areas with low clearance and minimal operating space.

Trust the Big Man Trailer Co & MXG for Your Mini Excavator Needs

If you’re looking to add mini excavators to your fleet, understanding the different options available will help you make an informed decision and guarantee a benefit to your business. Remember to consider the size, type, and hire options while prioritising safety to ensure your project’s success.

With five mini excavators in stock from Melbourne manufacturer MXG, we have several versatile options that are perfect for landscapers, builders, plumbers, and more. Explore the range online today, visit one of our seven locations across New South Wales, Victoria, or South Australia, or contact one of our friendly and knowledgeable team to arrange a viewing.