How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Mini Excavator?

How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Mini Excavator? – If you’re planning a construction project, landscaping job, or any heavy-duty digging work, you might be wondering: how much does it cost to rent a mini excavator?

Renting a mini excavator can be a cost-effective way to get the job done without the hefty price tag of purchasing one outright. But how much should you budget for it?

The cost of renting a mini excavator depends on several factors, including the size of the machine, rental duration, location, and additional attachments you might need.

Let’s break it all down so you can get a clear idea of what to expect.

How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Mini Excavator?

The average rental cost of a mini excavator ranges from $200 to $500 per day, depending on the model and rental company.

Weekly rentals typically cost between $700 and $2,000, while monthly rentals can range from $2,500 to $4,000 or more.

Factors That Affect Rental Prices

Several factors can influence how much you’ll pay to rent a mini excavator. Understanding these can help you budget accordingly and avoid unexpected expenses.

1. Rental Duration

Rental companies offer different pricing structures depending on how long you need the excavator. Generally, the longer you rent, the lower the daily rate.

• Daily rental: $200 – $500
• Weekly rental: $700 – $2,000
• Monthly rental: $2,500 – $4,000

If you’re working on a short project, a daily rental might be best. However, for extended projects, opting for a weekly or monthly rental can save you money.

2. Size and Model of the Mini Excavator

Mini excavators come in different sizes, usually ranging from 1 to 8 tons. The larger and more powerful the machine, the more expensive the rental.

• 1-2 ton models: $200 – $300 per day
• 3-5 ton models: $300 – $400 per day
• 6-8 ton models: $400 – $500 per day

If you’re working in tight spaces, a smaller model might be sufficient. For larger digging jobs, a heavier mini excavator may be necessary, but expect a higher rental cost.

3. Rental Company and Location

Where you rent the equipment plays a significant role in pricing. Rental costs in major cities or high-demand construction areas tend to be higher than in rural locations. For example:

• Los Angeles or New York: Higher rental rates due to demand
• Midwest or smaller towns: More affordable rental options

Different rental companies also have different pricing models, so it’s worth shopping around to compare rates.

4. Additional Attachments and Features

Many jobs require extra attachments, which can increase the rental cost. Some common attachments include:

• Hydraulic breakers ($50 – $100 per day)
• Augers for drilling ($75 – $150 per day)
• Grapples for material handling ($50 – $100 per day)

Check with the rental company to see what’s included in the base rental price and what will cost extra.

5. Delivery and Pickup Fees

If you don’t have a trailer to transport the mini excavator yourself, you’ll need to factor in delivery and pickup fees. These can range from $50 to $200 depending on the distance.

Should You Rent or Buy a Mini Excavator?

If you need an excavator for only a few days or weeks, renting is almost always the best option. However, if you find yourself renting frequently, purchasing might be more cost-effective.

• Buying a new mini excavator: $20,000 – $90,000
• Buying a used mini excavator: $15,000 – $50,000

Before making a decision, calculate how often you’ll need one and compare rental vs. ownership costs.

Where to Rent a Mini Excavator?

There are several reputable rental companies across the U.S. offering mini excavator rentals. Some of the most well-known include:

• United Rentals (one of the largest rental networks)
• Sunbelt Rentals (variety of options and flexible rates)
• Home Depot Tool Rental (great for smaller projects)
• Local Equipment Rental Companies (often more affordable and flexible)

Be sure to check online reviews and call ahead to confirm availability and pricing.

How to Save Money When Renting a Mini Excavator

If you’re on a budget, here are some tips to lower your mini excavator rental costs:

1. Compare Prices – Get quotes from multiple rental companies before committing.
2. Choose the Right Size – Renting a larger excavator than you need can cost extra.
3. Avoid Unnecessary Attachments – Only rent add-ons that are essential for your project.
4. Pick Up the Equipment Yourself – If possible, transport the excavator yourself to save on delivery fees.
5. Plan Your Project Efficiently – Rent for the shortest period possible by organizing your work schedule efficiently.

Related: How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Bobcat?

Final Thoughts

So, how much does it cost to rent a mini excavator? It depends on various factors, but on average, expect to pay $200 – $500 per day, $700 – $2,000 per week, or $2,500 – $4,000 per month. Additional costs like delivery fees and attachments can add up, so always check the total rental price before signing a contract.

Renting a mini excavator is a practical and cost-effective way to complete your project without the financial commitment of purchasing one. By doing a little research and planning ahead, you can find the best rental deal and stay within your budget.