The Most Popular Mini Excavator Models to Rent (and How to Choose One)
Whether you need to add an extra machine to meet a tight deadline or beef up your fleet to tackle a big job, equipment rental is a great choice when your operation needs a little boost. Mini excavators make great rental machines to serve all sorts of customers and applications. In this article we’ll tackle the most popular mini excavators models for rent.
“Rental units can be utilized for a wide variety of reasons, from the weekend warrior working on a home remodel or landscape project to the utility company needing additional support for larger projects,” says Bill Holton, product manager for Kubota. “General contractors, home builders, utility contractors all play a role in the rental world today. Agricultural and recreational projects are also picking up a rental unit as needs arise for some projects.”
If Rental Is the Right Option for You…
It’s important to find a machine that meets all of your needs. That search begins with understanding what applications the mini excavator is expected to perform. With such a big demand for mini excavators, equipment lots are stocked with plenty of different machines to choose from.
“The first step to choosing the right machine is to carefully evaluate the job or jobs for which you’ll need the mini excavator to determine the appropriate size and features,” says Lee Padgett, product manager, Takeuchi-US. “You don’t want a machine that’s too small or too large for the job. If you have multiple jobs or plan to transport the machine while renting it, you will want an excavator that you can transport easily and is the right size for your truck and trailer. You also need to determine the amount of material you are going to be moving and the timeframe in which you need to move it. Then, match those measurements to a machine by determining the capability of the machine — its dig depth, reach and bucket capacity, for example.”
Comfort
A comfortable operator is a productive one, so finding an excavator rental that best suits an operator’s preferences is important. Renters should scope out potential units to see if they will be a good, comfortable fit. That includes finding a machine with easy-to-use controls and deciding between a cab or ROPS machine. A cab is particularly useful if you need to shield yourself from certain weather conditions.
Attachments
Attachments are another important piece in your rental. First, renters should make sure the machine is ready and able to take on the attachments they need. Diego Butzke, product manager for excavators at Case Construction Equipment, says to choose a machine that has the flexibility to run different attachments.
“Hydraulic breakers are popular while augers and post drivers can be helpful for landscaping rentals,” he says. “It’s important for a rental center to offer machines with the right attachments that meet the needs of their regional customers. It’s not always feasible to carry every single attachment on the market, so it’s very important for rental companies to know their industry and the ongoing needs and projects around their area to be able to fill the needs of their clientele.”
Size ‘Em Up
When exploring size options, mini excavators in the 3- to 4-metric-ton range are a popular choice for rental. Machines in that size are great for most homeowners and light construction applications. They can also handle a wide range of attachments.
“The 3- to 4-ton size class is the most popular largely due to the combination of size, power and effectiveness,” says Zac Evans, product manager — excavators and carriers, Yanmar Compact Equipment North America. “The weight and compact size of the machines make them easier to transport and maneuver. At the same time, they offer a performance level and working range that allow them to be used in a wide variety of applications. Additionally, engines under 25 hp — typically used in this size — require no additional exhaust after treatment systems to meet regulatory requirements.”
Yanmar
When looking at this size range, Yanmar’s 3.5-ton class ViO35-6A is the company’s most popular rental unit. Evans points out that the machine includes a variety of configurable features such as cab, canopy, angle blade and additional auxiliary circuits which allow rental centers to tailor the machine to their market.
“The canopy version of the ViO35-6A is a popular rental selection due to its balance of functionality and simplicity,” he says. “The zero tail swing design keeps the upper structure inside the tracks which provides more working flexibility in tight areas. The excavator has a highly efficient three-pump hydraulic system powered by a 24.4-hp engine, allowing for easy operation, general service and maintenance.”
Pricing Your Rental: Takeuchi’s Lee Padgett Breaks Down the Costs of Renting a Mini Ex
The cost to rent a mini excavator can vary based on several factors, including the size and model of the excavator, the rental duration, the rental company and your location (city vs. smaller town vs. rural area). Here are some general price ranges for renting a mini excavator — keep in mind that actual prices may vary:
Daily Rental Costs
• Small Mini Excavators (1-2 tons): $200 – $350 per day
• Medium Mini Excavators (2-4 tons): $350 – $500 per day
• Large Mini Excavators (4-6 tons): $500 – $650 per day
Weekly Rental Costs
• Small Mini Excavators (1-2 tons): $600 – $1,200 per week
• Medium Mini Excavators (2-4 tons): $800 – $1,500 per week
• Large Mini Excavators (4-6 tons): $1,200 – $2,000 per week
Monthly Rental Costs
• Small Mini Excavators (1-2 tons): $1,500 – $3,000 per month
• Medium Mini Excavators (2-4 tons): $2,000 – $3,500 per month
• Large Mini Excavators (4-6 tons): $3,000 – $5,000 per month
Some rental companies charge extra for delivering and picking up the equipment, which can range from $50 to $200 each way. Fuel is typically not included in the rental price, so you’ll need to budget for the fuel required for your project. Rental companies may offer insurance coverage for the equipment, which can add to the overall cost, too. If you choose to rent some attachments to use with your mini ex, those will cost extra.
Kubota
According to Kubota’s Bill Holton, the company has several units that fit in the “popular” category. However, its KX030-4 is one of the biggest players in the 3-ton market. While the machine may be smaller, it certainly packs a punch.
“The KX030-4’s size allows the machine to be trailered easily from jobsite to jobsite without the need of a commercial driver’s license,” he says. “It also provides the operator enough power and mobility to maneuver around in neighborhoods, between buildings and fences, yet has enough reach to get most any backyard project taken care of with ease.”
Volvo
Volvo’s EC37 fits into the popular size range while providing increased operator comfort, better fuel efficiency, more stability and easier maintenance. The new machine boasts customizable hydraulic flow settings. It has work modes that make it easy to set up the machine for any task.
“Eco mode, auto engine shutdown and auto engine idle help you save on fuel and maintenance,” says Darren Ashton, product manager — compact equipment, Volvo Construction Equipment. “With auto engine shutdown, hours not worked are not recorded, keeping the machine operating efficiently for longer while reducing maintenance costs and preserving resale value. This also contributes to a 10 percent boost in fuel efficiency.”
New Holland
The E26C mini excavator from New Holland is the company’s most popular rental unit thanks to its compact size and reliable, efficient engine. Dan Kakareka, product marketing manager for New Holland Construction, says the machine offers excellent digging performance and is equipped with a long arm and a boom swing, which increase its operational versatility. The E26C’s comfortable cab features ergonomic controls and good visibility which reduce fatigue and up productivity. Kakareka adds the machine’s hydraulic system is also optimized for smooth and precise control.
John Deere
John Deere’s 30 P-Tier and the 35 P-Tier are popular choices thanks to their ideal dig depths, operating weights and ease of transport. Product marketing manager Justin Steger says the two models offer renters high performance in compact machines, as well as versatility thanks to a mechanical quick-coupler and auxiliary hydraulics.
“Our compact excavator models excel in tight spaces, making them a favorite for indoor jobs where ventilation allows,” says Steger. “These machines navigate slim pathways and fenced borders without the need for costly and disruptive gate removal or repair. By fitting through small openings, they expedite the work process and help prevent unnecessary disturbances and hurdles on the jobsite.”
Takeuchi
The TB350R from Takeuchi is available in both cab and canopy configurations and provides a slew of impressive specs. For example, the machine has a bucket breakout force of 10,431 lbs. It has a traction force of 12,320 lbs and a maximum dig depth of 11 ft, 8.8 in. Its Tier 4 Kubota engine delivers 41.7 net hp and more than 130.2 ft-lbs of torque. Add in its four-pump hydraulic system, which allows operators to have smooth, harmonized control of their rental.
“Designed with multiple improvements and advanced technology, our TB350R compact excavator delivers a unique combination of performance, durability, operator comfort and serviceability,” says Padgett. “With a rear-swing overhang of just 2.95 in., the TB350R makes it possible to work in tight or confined spaces with less worry about rear-swing impacts.”
Bobcat
According to Bobcat’s senior marketing specialist Ryan Saunders, one of the company’s most popular rental units is the E40. It was designed based on customer feedback and a demand for increased features within the 4-ton size class. The new unit stands out to renters for its 3,939-lb lifting capacity, 10-ft, 9-in. dig depth, dual-flange track roller system, standard low-effort joysticks, LED lights and attachment versatility.
“For digging trenches, cleaning ditches and creating ground contours, Bobcat offers four different styles of bucket attachments,” says Saunders. “Bobcat’s grapple attachment also helps move materials and can tackle landscaping, demolition and construction tasks. Operators also have access to two breaker styles — hydraulic and nitrogen — that can help on any demolition jobsite. This attachment can break through concrete, rock and asphalt effortlessly.”
Safety First: New Holland’s Dan Kakareka Offers Safety Tips for Your Mini Ex Rental
Proper training is extremely important to safely operating any heavy machinery. Ensure the operator has received proper training. Make sure they are familiar with the controls for the specific mini excavator model you choose to rent. Thoroughly read the operator’s manual and understand all controls and safety features. Always wear appropriate PPE such as steel-toed boots and high-visibility clothing. Perform daily inspections on the machine including checking fluid levels and assessing tracks for any visible damage. Confirm safety features such as seat belts, backup alarms and cameras and lights are operational. Ensure the work area is clear of bystanders, obstacles and hazards. And most importantly, contact utility companies to locate and mark underground utilities before digging. If you are unsure, call 811.
Case CE
Case CE’s most popular mini excavator rentals include the 4-ton CX37C and 6-ton CX57C. Butzke says both machines are easy to use and provide operators with great power in a compact package. The company also offers a battery-powered unit which may benefit renters.
“Electric mini excavators like the Case CX15EV can be a good choice to rent for specialty jobs where noise restrictions are in place or where emissions are a factor, such as indoor utility projects, demolitions and remodeling,” says Butzke.
JCB
The JCB 35Z can handle most applications with an 11-ft, 1-in. dig depth and 23.1-hp engine. Lee Tice, JCB product manager, highlights that the 35Z has an all-steel body. It comes with an optional four-way dozer blade and cab or canopy configurations.
“The 35Z’s zero tail swing feature helps you work in confined spaces,” he adds. “Thanks to bronze-graphite-impregnated bushings, the dig-end and dozer greasing intervals are extended to 500 hours.”
Pam Kleineke is managing editor of Compact Equipment.
