Used Mini Excavators: Inspected Machines for Your Construction Sites
4 machines disponibles
Whether for network trenches, foundations, landscaping, or urban earthworks, the mini excavator is the most versatile machine in any construction fleet. Codimatra, a specialist in public works equipment for over 40 years, offers inspected used mini excavators ranging from micro-excavators of around 800 kg to compact 8-ton models. Each machine is detailed with its hours, equipment, and condition. For heavier models, also see our section on used crawler excavators or browse all our used construction machinery.
Buying a Used Mini Excavator: Why Choose Codimatra
A private sale or an auction might seem tempting, but the true condition of the machine is often hard to assess. At Codimatra, every used mini excavator is thoroughly inspected before sale: hydraulic system, tracks, engine, play in the boom and arm joints. You deal with a knowledgeable representative who can compare multiple models with you. We deliver throughout France and internationally, and our stock of around 17,000 parts references makes maintenance easier.
Mini Excavator 1t, 2.5t, 5t or 8t: Which Payload?
- Micro excavator 800 kg to 1.5t: fits through a gate, ideal for indoor or garden work.
- Mini excavator 2t to 2.5t: the most popular size for networks, foundations, and pools.
- Mini excavator 3t to 3.5t: more stability and digging force, yet still trailer transportable.
- Mini excavator 5 tonnes: the heart of urban sites, perfect for deep trenches and loading.
- Excavator 6 to 8 tonnes: capabilities close to production excavators for mass earthworks.
Small Excavator for Confined Spaces
In urban areas or renovations, space is often limited. A short-tail or offset boom mini excavator works along walls without exceeding its footprint. Rubber tracks protect paved surfaces and finished grounds, and some models feature a variable gauge chassis to pass through narrow access points. For tight spaces, a mini excavator without a cabin but equipped with a canopy offers excellent visibility and reduced weight; however, a cabin is more comfortable for daily use.
Kubota, JCB, Caterpillar and Other Mini Excavator Brands
- Used Kubota mini excavators: models like U17, KX057-4 or KX080-4 depending on arrivals; see our Kubota parts.
- Used JCB mini excavators: ranges from 8018 to 8085; see our JCB parts.
- Used Bobcat mini excavators: series E17 to E85 depending on arrivals; see our Bobcat parts.
- Caterpillar, Takeuchi, Yanmar, and Volvo: available according to stock, with dedicated pages for Caterpillar and Takeuchi.
Thorough Checks for Your Used Mini Excavator
Operating hours give an initial idea but must align with the actual machine condition. Check for play in the pins and bushings of the boom, arm, and bucket, and ensure no cracks in welds. On the hydraulic side, cylinders should not leak and the pump must remain quiet under load. The undercarriage requires significant maintenance: rollers, sprockets and tracks wear faster on abrasive ground. Our technicians detail these points for each stocked machine.
Equipment and Parts for Your Mini Excavator
- A used bucket for mini excavators: for cleaning, earthworks or trapezoid shapes.
- A used quick coupler to change tools without leaving the cabin.
- Used undercarriage components, including tracks for mini excavators.
- An auxiliary hydraulic line for breakers, augers, or crushers.
- A trailer suitable for the machine's weight to transport it between sites.
From a professional who inspects machines before sale and can advise you. Codimatra, based in Castelculier near Agen, offers used mini excavators of all sizes and delivers throughout France. Browse the listings, then contact us at 05 53 96 16 43 to get details on a machine or compare several models.
The price depends on weight, brand, year and running hours. An older micro-excavator remains affordable, while a recent 5-ton mini excavator represents a much greater investment. If you’re looking for a cheap mini excavator, keep in mind that listings at 3,000 or 5,000 euros generally involve very old or heavily used machines: always check the undercarriage and hydraulics before purchasing. Prices for each Codimatra machine are listed on its page or provided on request.
No driver's license is required to operate a mini excavator. A private individual can use it on their own land, although some training is highly recommended. In a professional setting, the employer issues an operating authorization, usually based on the CACES R482: category A for compact machines, category B1 for heavier excavators. For transport, a BE license may be necessary depending on the total weight of the loaded trailer.
Yes, as soon as the machine is used regularly. Buying used avoids the steep depreciation of the first years and reduces initial investment. Owning your mini excavator also eliminates repeated rental fees and gives you freedom to schedule your work. Popular brands like Kubota, JCB or Caterpillar also ease resale and parts supply.
For garden work, a trench, or a small wall, a micro excavator from 1t to 1.5t is sufficient and fits most access points. For a pool or larger earthworks, a 2.5t mini excavator offers more power while remaining trailer transportable. Opt for a simple machine with a suitable bucket and well-maintained undercarriage.
First define the weight and equipment you need. Then compare hours, condition of tracks, pins, and hydraulic circuit, and ask for detailed photos. At Codimatra, our advisors provide this information and answer your questions before purchase. Contact us at 05 53 96 16 43 to reserve a machine or arrange delivery.




