ForConstructionPros.com

Compact excavators have really come of age. They have found a niche in the construction market for smaller trenching and digging applications, as well as jobs that require maneuvering in tight and confined spaces.

"A compact excavator is now one of the first machine purchases a contractor will make," indicates David Caldwell, Komatsu America. "Many contractors find that, despite their compact design, they are able to perform a variety of tasks. Compact excavators are now replacing the tractor-loader-backhoe on many jobsites, because they are able to get in and out of confined areas and are easier to transport."

Depending on who you ask, compact excavators typically weigh up to about 6 metric tons, although some manufacturers include any model under 18,000 lbs. Regardless, the compact's lighter weight is an advantage when it comes to both transportation and maneuverability.

"Compact excavators are an efficient tool on a construction site," says Brian Rabe, Mustang Mfg. "With their ability to swing the boom, these machines excel at digging along foundations, fence lines or around obstacles, or digging a square hole without repositioning the machine. The standard dozer blade for stability and backfilling can help clean up a jobsite without the assistance of another piece of equipment. Also, their compact size means they can gain access to smaller jobsites than larger units. Additionally, transport costs are reduced."

With their growing popularity come a number of machine choices. So how do you determine which is the right fit?