What does Approved Used mean?

Approved Used is the standard we apply to every machine we sell from our hire fleet. Before anything is listed, it goes through a full inspection carried out by our in-house engineers, any work required is completed, and the service documentation is prepared ready for handover. Every machine comes with a full history from the day it entered our fleet, so you know exactly what you are buying and how it has been cared for.

What size excavator do I need?

For most general groundworks, drainage and site clearance applications, a machine in the 5 to 10 tonne range will cover the majority of requirements. Mid-range machines between 10 and 18 tonnes offer greater digging force and reach, making them well suited to larger civils projects and heavier ground conditions. Machines above 18 tonnes are typically used on major infrastructure, demolition or deep excavation work. Our range spans 4,500kg to 24,000kg, so please contact us if you would like guidance on which size suits your application.

What is the difference between conventional and zero tailswing?

A conventional tailswing machine has a counterweight that swings beyond the width of the tracks when the upper structure rotates, which requires clear space around the rear of the machine. A zero tailswing machine keeps the counterweight within the track width at all times, making it suitable for working in confined areas without risk of the rear striking obstacles. Both configurations are available within our Approved Used range.

What hours should I expect on a used excavator?

Our used excavators typically come with between 2,000 and 3,000 hours. For a machine that has been serviced on schedule and maintained throughout its working life, that represents a reliable buy with considerable productive life remaining. Every machine we sell comes with full service records from new, so you have complete confidence in what you are getting.

What brands do you stock?

Our Approved Used excavator range is built around machines from CAT, Hitachi and JCB, three of the most respected names in the industry with strong reputations for reliability, excellent parts availability and comprehensive dealer support across the UK. Hitachi in particular has a strong following in the market, known for build quality and longevity in demanding conditions. We also carry machines from other reputable manufacturers including Sany, Hyundai, Kubota, Bobcat and Doosan. Please contact us to discuss current availability across the full range.

How do I enquire or arrange a viewing?

You can use the enquiry form on this page or call us on 0808 175 0215. Please let us know what you are looking for, including any preferences on operating weight, dig depth or tailswing configuration, and we will come back to you with current availability. You are welcome to view any machine in person before committing to a purchase. Collection from your nearest Charles Wilson depot is the most straightforward option once you are ready to proceed.

Plant Sales

Used excavators for sale

Model: Excavators

Enquire to buy

Description
- Operating Weight: 4,500-24,000kg
- Max Dig Depth: 3.30-6.70m
- Average Hours: 2,000 - 3,000 hours
- Tailswing: Conventional and zero
- Service History: Included from new
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Every excavator for sale in our Approved Used range comes directly from the Charles Wilson hire fleet. All machines are sourced from leading manufacturers including CAT, Hitachi and JCB, serviced by our in-house engineers throughout their working life and inspected before being listed for sale. When you buy from us, you get a machine with a clean, documented history from day one.

We stock excavators from 4,500kg to 24,000kg operating weight, covering dig depths from 3.30 to 6.70 metres. Our range includes both conventional and zero tailswing machines, suitable for a wide variety of applications from groundworks and drainage through to large civils and demolition projects. Machines from additional manufacturers including Sany, Hyundai, Kubota, Bobcat and Doosan are also available within our fleet.

Stock rotates regularly as we update our hire fleet. If you are looking for something specific, please contact us and we will work with you to find the right machine or let you know as soon as one becomes available.