A low asking price means little if the undercarriage or pump is near end of life. Walk the machine with a checklist, not a feeling.
Record hours, year, and serial. Compare hours to year realistically; ask for service history and recent major repairs (engine, pump, slew).
Inspect undercarriage or tyres, boom/arm play, cylinder leaks, track tension or wheel bearings, cab controls, and electrics. Start cold if you can and listen for knock or smoke.
Run a short work cycle: dig, slew, travel, and hold a load. Check for drift on cylinders and weak hydraulics under load.
Papers matter: ownership, VAT status, conformity where applicable, and that the seller can complete a clean transfer. Prefer sellers who already publish clear photos and specs on Utilaro sale listings — start from the excavator category filtered toward sale intent via search.
If the job is short-term, renting may beat a risky purchase. Compare rent options while you negotiate, and use our owner listing checklist if you later resell or hire out the machine.
