Your Guide To Buying A Used Excavator

Whether you're a contractor expanding your fleet or a self-builder tackling a new challenge, we can help.

Excavators Posted: July 23, 2025

At Compact Plant Sales, we understand that buying a used excavator isn’t just a transaction - it’s a strategic investment in your business or project. Whether you're a contractor expanding your fleet or a self-builder tackling a new challenge, we’re here to ensure you get the right machine at the right price with complete confidence.


With over 45 years of industry expertise and a reputation built on trust, quality, and service, Compact Plant Sales is one of the UK’s leading suppliers of used excavators and plant machinery. Our stock includes fully serviced, low-hour machines with documented service histories – all sourced directly from our professionally maintained FTH Hire fleet.


Here’s why buying used from a trusted specialist like Compact Plant Sales can be the smartest move.

 

The Benefits of Buying Used

 

Significant Cost Savings

Purchasing a used excavator can save you thousands compared to buying new, and those savings go straight back into your project or bottom line. New machines depreciate quickly, especially within the first few years. By choosing a quality used model from Compact Plant Sales, you avoid the steepest part of that depreciation curve while still gaining a dependable, high-spec machine.

 

Proven, Low-Hour Machines

Unlike anonymous auction buys or machines of unknown origin, every excavator we sell has been part of our own managed hire fleet. That means consistent servicing, professional upkeep, and a full-service record. You’re not just buying used - you’re investing in proven performance backed by documentation and decades of care.

 

Slower Depreciation, Stronger Resale Value

Used equipment depreciates at a slower, more stable rate. When you buy from Compact Plant Sales, you’re choosing machines that will hold their value better over time - giving you flexibility to trade in, upgrade, or sell on with confidence when the time is right.

 

Immediate Availability

Need to get started right away? We’ve got you covered. Unlike many new equipment suppliers with long lead times, our stock is ready to go. Our Farnham site sees a regular influx of well-maintained, nearly new machines, meaning reduced downtime and faster starts for your projects.

 

Wider Selection, Trusted Brands

From nimble micro and mini diggers to robust 15-tonne excavators, we offer a wide and constantly updated range of machines from industry-leading brands like Kubota, JCB, Takeuchi, Yanmar, and Bobcat. Whether you’re working in tight spaces or tackling heavy-duty jobs, we’ll help you find the right fit.

 

What to Consider When Buying a Used Excavator

 

Residual Value

When purchasing plant machinery, brand matters. Machines from reputable manufacturers retain their value better and offer stronger long-term ROI. At Compact Plant Sales, we only stock sought-after models from trusted brands, so you’re not just buying an excavator, you’re making a future-proof investment.

 

Brand Reliability

Not all machines are built the same. Our long-standing relationships with the best brands in the business mean we know which models consistently perform, and which ones stand the test of time. Every unit in our inventory has been carefully selected for durability, reliability and performance.

 

Running & Maintenance Costs

One of the hidden risks of buying used is the unknown maintenance history - but not with us. Every excavator we sell comes with a full-service history, having been professionally maintained throughout its life. We thoroughly inspect and prepare each machine for sale, reducing your risk of unexpected repairs and lowering your long-term running costs.

 

Why Buy from Compact Plant Sales?

As a family-owned and operated business with over four decades of experience, we take pride in offering a personal, expert service. We’re not just selling machines - we’re building relationships with customers who return time and again for reliable equipment and honest advice.

 

When you buy from us, you can expect:

 

  • A regular supply of low-hour, nearly new machines
  • Full service histories and rigorous inspections
  • Trusted brands and a wide range of models
  • Expert support from a knowledgeable team
  • Convenient location and comprehensive facilities

 

Our fully equipped premises, located just off the A31 Coxbridge roundabout in Farnham, Surrey, include modern workshop facilities, export loading and easy site access for collection and transport.

 

Visit us today or get in touch to discover the difference of buying used from a name you can trust.

 

Compact Plant Sales

Unit 5 Coxbridge Business Park

Farnham, Surrey GU10 5EH

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Courtney Evans

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Low hour machines

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90-Day Warranty

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worldwide shipping

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finance available

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