When buyers ask what a used CAT excavator will actually cost, the honest answer is that the sticker price is only part of the story. This breakdown focuses on different size classes and the real numbers behind each option, so you can compare apples to apples. We are Anhui Gangya Construction Machinery Co., Ltd., operating as CAT Excavator Export, an independent exporter of used machines. We are not affiliated with any manufacturer. All prices are FOB, and we give ranges rather than single figures because freight, duties, and inspection costs vary by destination.
Unit Price by Size Class
Size class drives the base price more than any other factor. Mini excavators under 10 t are the most affordable entry point. For example, a 2022 CAT 306E2 with an 800-hour meter reading is priced at $16,000 FOB for a single unit. The same price applies to a 2022 CAT 305.5 / 305.5E2, also with 800 hours. A slightly larger mini, the 2022 CAT 308E2, sits at $21,000 FOB. Moving into the 20–30 t class, a 2011 CAT 320DIMPORT with 8,000 hours is listed at $15,000 FOB. Notice that the 320DIMPORT is older and higher-hour, yet still commands a similar price to the new mini machines because of its larger size and capacity. This shows why you cannot compare raw price without considering class and condition.
MOQ and Availability
Most of our stock is single-unit listings. That means the minimum order quantity is typically one machine. For the CAT 306E2, CAT 305.5 / 305.5E2, CAT 308E2, and CAT 320DIMPORT, each is a single unit priced on its own. There is no requirement to buy multiple units to get the listed price. However, availability changes quickly. If you need several units of the same model, you may need to wait for new stock or consider a different size class. We do not hold large inventories; we list what is physically on the ground in China.
Tooling and Sampling
For used excavators, tooling usually refers to attachments like buckets, thumbs, or hammers. These are not always included in the FOB price. You should confirm which attachments come with the machine. Sampling in this context means inspection. We provide a start-up video, photos, and an inspection report of the actual machine for every unit. This is not a sample you can touch, but it is the next best thing. For the CAT 306E2, CAT 305.5 / 305.5E2, CAT 308E2, and CAT 320DIMPORT, these materials are available before you commit. Always ask for the inspection report and verify the hours meter reading, which is given as a reference only, not as proof of use.
Shipping and Freight
Shipping is a major variable. A mini excavator under 10 t can often fit into a 40-foot container, which reduces freight cost compared to a larger machine that requires flat-rack or break-bulk shipping. The CAT 306E2, CAT 305.5 / 305.5E2, and CAT 308E2 fall into this container-friendly category. The CAT 320DIMPORT, being in the 20–30 t class, will need a different shipping method, typically flat-rack or RoRo. Freight rates fluctuate based on destination port, season, and fuel prices. For Nigeria, for example, you should budget anywhere from $2,000 to $6,000 for ocean freight, depending on the port and method. Always request a current quote.
Duties and Taxes
Import duties are set by the destination country. The HS code for these excavators is 8429.52. In Nigeria, the duty rate is 5% on the CIF value. Other countries have different rates. You must also account for value-added tax (VAT) or its equivalent, which can range from 5% to 20%. Some countries offer exemptions for used construction equipment, but you must verify this with a local customs broker. Do not assume the duty rate is the same everywhere. For the CAT 306E2, CAT 305.5 / 305.5E2, CAT 308E2, and CAT 320DIMPORT, the HS code is consistent, but the duty percentage is not.
Landed-Cost Comparison Across Options
To compare realistically, let us estimate landed cost for two scenarios: a mini excavator and a 20–30 t machine, both shipped to a West African port.
Option 1: 2022 CAT 306E2 (mini, under 10 t) - FOB price: $16,000 - Ocean freight (container): $2,500–$4,000 - Insurance (1% of CIF): ~$200 - Duty (5% of CIF): ~$950 - Port charges and clearing: $500–$1,000 - Inland transport: $300–$800 - Estimated landed cost: $20,450–$22,950
Option 2: 2011 CAT 320DIMPORT (20–30 t class) - FOB price: $15,000 - Ocean freight (flat-rack or RoRo): $4,000–$7,000 - Insurance (1% of CIF): ~$220 - Duty (5% of CIF): ~$1,110 - Port charges and clearing: $800–$1,500 - Inland transport: $500–$1,200 - Estimated landed cost: $21,630–$26,030
Even though the 320DIMPORT has a lower FOB price, its landed cost is higher because of shipping and handling. The mini excavator is cheaper to land overall, but it does less work per hour. Your choice depends on the job.
What Drives the Final Number
Three factors swing the landed cost the most: shipping method, duty rate, and inland transport. For minis, container shipping keeps costs predictable. For larger machines, flat-rack or RoRo can add thousands. Duty rates are country-specific; always confirm with a broker. Inland transport from port to site can vary widely based on distance and road conditions. We recommend getting quotes for all three before you commit.
How to Use This Breakdown
Start with the size class that matches your work. If you need tight-access digging, a mini like the CAT 306E2, CAT 305.5 / 305.5E2, or CAT 308E2 is appropriate. If you need heavy digging and trenching, the 20–30 t class, such as the CAT 320DIMPORT, is better. Then add freight, duty, and inland costs to get a realistic landed figure. Remember that hours and year are reference points, not guarantees. Always review the inspection report and start-up video.
We are Anhui Gangya Construction Machinery Co., Ltd., and we export used CAT excavators from China. We are not a dealer and have no affiliation with any manufacturer. Our listings are single units, priced FOB, with transparency about condition. For more details on specific machines, visit our website. This breakdown is a guide, not a quote. Contact us for current availability and shipping estimates to your port.