Excavator Hire Cost Calculator

Estimate the cost of hiring an excavator in Australia, with or without an operator.

days
Estimated excavator hire cost · NSW$300$450Indicative estimate only
What’s affecting your estimate
Mini (1.7t)
How your estimate comparesTypical range
$324typical job$2,160
💰 Ways to save
  • Dry hire is cheaper if you’re competent and the site is safe.
  • Float/delivery fees are charged separately, factor them in for short jobs.
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How we estimate this

Excavator hire in Australia typically costs $300–$500/day for a mini (dry hire) in 2026, with wet hire roughly double.

Pricing reviewed: June 2026.

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Understanding excavator hire costs in Australia

Excavator hire in Australia typically costs $300–$500/day for a mini (dry hire) in 2026, with wet hire roughly double.

Delivery (float) fees are extra and matter most on one-day jobs.

Frequently asked questions

How much does excavator hire cost?

Typically $300–$500/day for a mini dry-hire in 2026; wet hire (with operator) is about double.

What is dry vs wet hire?

Dry hire is the machine only; wet hire includes a licensed operator and is roughly twice the price.

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