The past 90 days in the auction market for construction and excavating equipment revealed strong buyer interest and consistent demand for both newer models with minimal usage and older, well-maintained machinery. Here are key takeaways and trends from recent auction results:
Top Sales and Highlights
- High-Value Excavators and Skid Steers …
- The 2024 Bobcat E88 R2-Series Excavator led recent sales with a price of $82,500, showcasing buyers' willingness to invest in near-new equipment featuring advanced technology, low operating hours, and reliability. Equipped with a hydraulic thumb and quick attach system, this machine exemplifies market preference for efficient, modern machinery.
- Skid steers, including the 2016 Cat 257D and the 2019 Bobcat T595, sold for $24,500 and $27,000, respectively, reinforcing the strong demand for versatile, compact equipment suitable for diverse job sites.
- Telehandlers and Wheel Loaders …
- Telehandlers remained a popular choice, with the 2007 SkyTrak 8042 Telehandler selling for $26,000 and the 2013 Manitou Telehandler for $29,000. These sales underscore the consistent need for equipment capable of heavy lifting and extended reach, essential for various construction tasks.
- The 2014 Caterpillar 924K Wheel Loader, which sold for $50,000, highlighted ongoing demand for well-maintained loaders with multiple capabilities, such as the inclusion of grapple forks.
- Steady Sales of Older Equipment …
- Older equipment continued to attract buyers, as demonstrated by the 2005 JLG G9-43A Telehandler and the 2005 JLG Skytrak 6042 Telehandler, both achieving $20,000. These results indicate that even aged models can hold value when well-maintained and in good operational condition.
- The 1990 Caterpillar EL240B Long Reach Excavator, sold for $29,000, showed that unique features like long reach capabilities make older equipment appealing for specific needs despite potential age-related wear.
- Additional Noteworthy Sales …
- The John Deere 650 JLGP Dozer achieved a sale price of $25,000, reflecting moderate interest in dozers with essential functionality.
- The 2021 Case 21F Wheel Loader sold for $44,000, showcasing the market's positive response to low-hour machinery in good condition.
Market Trends and Observations
- Strong Demand for Low-Hour Machines: Newer, low-hour equipment like the 2024 Bobcat E88 performed well, demonstrating a market trend that emphasizes reliability, reduced maintenance, and high performance.
- Value in Older, Well-Maintained Equipment: The auction data shows that older models can still fetch solid prices if maintained in good condition, appealing to buyers looking for cost-effective solutions.
- Versatile Equipment Remains in Demand: The popularity of skid steers, telehandlers, and wheel loaders indicates that buyers continue to seek versatile machines that can handle a range of tasks on construction sites.
Summary and Outlook
Over the past 90 days, the construction and excavating equipment auction market displayed a clear preference for high-quality, operationally sound machinery. Buyers have shown strong interest in both newer, low-hour models and older equipment that remains in good working order. This pattern is likely to continue as construction projects maintain momentum and buyers seek dependable equipment to support their operational needs.
“As equipment prices gradually rise toward 2025, the fourth quarter offers a unique opportunity,” says Jonathon Miller, Chief Sales Officer at Bright Star Auctions. “Buyers have the chance to lock in current prices before they increase further and take advantage of Section 179 tax deductions.”
This insight underscores the timely advantage for buyers in securing equipment now, especially as demand and prices are anticipated to grow heading into the new year.
