If you’re a professional contractor, I understand how important excavators are for getting the job done right. Opting for excavators rental instead of buying can help save your business money.

Short-term rental works well for occasional needs, while leasing is great for longer projects, usually lasting 2 to 5 years. Plus, you might even have the option to buy the equipment at a lower price when your lease is up.

Now, let’s talk about the big question: how much does it cost to rent an excavator? Well, it’s not a simple answer because a few things affect the excavator rental cost. But don’t worry, I’m here to help. Whether your project is short or long-term, excavators rental is a flexible and budget-friendly option for getting the job done.

How Much Does it Cost to Rent an Excavator?

Excavators are bigger than bulldozers and work on bumpy land, while bulldozers are for flat areas. Excavator rentals come in three options: daily, weekly, and monthly. The longer you need it, the less you pay per day, making monthly rentals the wallet-friendly choice.

According to insights from BigRentz, ^[1] the rental cost depends on the size of the excavator and how long you need it. For a mid-sized excavator weighing between 25,000 and 29,000 pounds, you’re looking at around $520 per day, $1,664 per week, or $2,704 per month.

If you need a larger model, weighing between 40,000 and 44,000 pounds, the prices go up slightly to about $623 per day, $2,039 per week, or $3,328 per month. Don’t forget, you’ll also need contractors’ equipment insurance.

1. Compact Excavators

Compact excavators, weighing less than 6 tons, are small, but mighty machines perfect for tight budgets. Renting one can cost between $290 and $500 per day, with hourly rates around $60. Some start at just $275 per day or $2,250 per month, making them a smart choice without sacrificing quality.

Although they’re not great for big projects due to their size, but they’re perfect for tight spots, handling tasks with precision and ease.

Check out this detailed table outlines rental costs for various reputable brands:

2. Mini-Excavators

Mini-excavators, weighing 7 to 10 tons, pack more power while staying agile. They’re great for construction and landscaping jobs of all sizes.

Renting one won’t break the bank, with daily rates from $475 to $675 and monthly rates from $3,575 to $4,800. They strike a good balance between what you get and what you pay.

I’ve got a handy list of average rental prices for popular models. With this info, you can easily compare and choose the right one for your needs.

3. Standard Excavators

Standard excavators, specifically the common “crawler” type, ranging from 10 to 45 tons. These machines are essential for bigger construction projects because they’re strong and versatile.

You can expect to pay between $800 to $2,250 per day and $4,250 to $8,500 per month. Most rentals fall in the $900 to $1,775 per day range. The bigger the machine, the higher the price, but it can be worth it for efficiency.

4. Large Excavators

Large excavators are the heavyweights, weighing over 45 tons. They’re perfect for big jobs like building massive structures or tearing down buildings. These machines are so huge and powerful that only experts with a license can operate them, and you’ll need special trucks and cranes just to move them.

Renting one of these beasts can cost a lot. It depends on things like how good your business is, your credit score, and your renting history. But be ready to spend a good chunk of money – some rentals can be over $12,000 per day!

Additional Excavator Rental Costs

Renting an excavator involves more than just the upfront cost. Let’s look at the extra expenses and how to handle them wisely to keep your project on track and your wallet happy.

• Attachments: Think about what tasks you need your excavator to do. Specialized attachments, like rock breakers or soil buckets, can help. They may cost extra, but they’ll make your job easier and faster. Prices for attachments vary, ranging from $125 to $850 per day. Choose the ones that fit your project best to get the most bang for your buck.
• Delivery and Pickup: Getting the excavator to your site can be tricky, but rental companies can help with delivery and pickup. It’s an added cost, but it saves you time and effort. Delivery fees depend on distance and usually range from $200 to $2,000. Factor this into your budget for a smoother process.
• Operator Fees: Operating an excavator requires skill, so renting an operator might be worth it. They know how to use the machine safely and efficiently. Operator fees typically range from $30 to $75 per hour. While it’s an extra expense, it can save you money by keeping your project running on track.

Factor Affecting the Excavator Rental Costs

When renting excavators, a few things affect how much you pay. Let me explain:

• Excavator Size: Excavators come in different sizes, and that affects the price. Smaller ones are cheaper, starting around $475/day, while big ones can cost up to $1500/day. Think about what size fits your project best.
• Types of Excavators: There are different kinds for different jobs. Some are good for digging in tight spaces, while others are better for big projects. Knowing which one you need helps you choose wisely.
• Rental Duration: The longer you need it, the more it costs. But sometimes, you can save money by renting for a week or a month instead of just a day.
• Location and Market Conditions: Prices can change depending on where you rent from. In cities, it’s usually more expensive. But sometimes, renting from a place outside the city can save you money.
• Transport and Operator: Don’t forget about getting the excavator to your job site. It can cost around $1000. Some places include delivery in the rental price. And if you need someone to operate it, that’s extra too.