What is a Refurbished Excavator
Refurbished Excavators refer to used excavators that undergo systematic inspection and repair to restore them to a condition close to new. Refurbished excavators typically go through full disassembly, cleaning, component replacement, painting, and functional testing to ensure high standards in performance, appearance, and reliability.
Note:
If you purchase 30 units annually, we will designate you as our exclusive partner in your country and will no longer sell to other customers. We will also refer local orders to you.
To help you start your business, the quantity will be based on the year-end settlement and does not need to be met all at once.
Refurbished vs. Used(Original)
Refurbished vs. Fake/Gray
Many companies don't distinguish between "used" and "refurbished"; they use "used" and "refurbished" interchangeably. The reason I want to differentiate between "used" and "refurbished" is that "used" is roughly equivalent to "original", you can repair or modify it according to your own preferences. Therefore, it doesn't come with a warranty (although it's implicitly covered). While "refurbished" means that some parts have been replaced, the paint has been refreshed, and the operating hours have been reset. We must assume responsibility for the warranty after the repair.
If a salesperson tells you that their used excavator has only been used for less than 500 hours, that the hour meter hasn't been tampered with, and that the price is very cheap, congratulations, you've encountered a very skilled salesperson.
It's also possible that he/she is very new and knows nothing, so he/she doesn't feel guilty about talking nonsense when he/she doesn't understand. Because of this, newguys can easily get orders, but they are also more likely to receive complaints.
Services
- We supply perfectly refurbished heavy equipment.
- We search nationwide for specific models of heavy equipment for you.
- We refurbish and modify excavators for you.
- Helping you search parts that are difficult to identify.
- We act as a third party to inspect equipment from other suppliers on your behalf.
We generally use container shipping. If there is spare space in the container, we can help you purchase other Chinese goods to save on shipping costs.
Product List
- SY55u
- SY55
- SY60
- SY75
- SY85
- SY95
- SY115
- SY125
- SY135
- SY155
- SY205
- SY215
- SY235
- SY245
- SY265
- SY305
- SY335
- SY365
- SY375
- SY485
- SY550
SANY
- Cat303.5
- Cat305.5
- Cat306
- Cat307
- Cat307.5
- Cat308
- Cat311
- Cat312
- Cat313
- Cat315
- Cat320
- Cat323
- Cat324
- Cat325
- Cat326
- Cat329
- Cat330
- Cat336
- Cat349
- Cat352
Caterpillar
- PC30
- PC35
- PC40
- PC55
- PC60
- PC70
- PC78
- PC110
- PC120
- PC130
- PC138
- PC200
- PC210
- PC220
- PC230
- PC240
- PC270
- PC300
- PC350
- PC360
- PC400
- PC450
- PC490
Komatsu
Product Advantages
Globally, the refurbished construction machinery market is steadily growing. In regions such as Southeast Asia and Africa, demand for refurbished excavators is particularly high; in developed countries like the US and Europe, major brands such as Caterpillar, Komatsu, and Volvo have official remanufacturing or refurbishment programs. This indicates that refurbished excavators have evolved from simple used-machine repairs into a professional and standardized industry chain.
Refurbished excavators not only offer significant cost advantages but also deliver performance and appearance close to brand-new machines, making them especially suitable for rental businesses.
Low labor and spare part costs in China make this all feasible. If refurbishment costs are high in your country and you do not wish to repair machines yourself, we are your best choice. Purchasing our refurbished excavators is like buying new ones, even with comparable warranty, but typically at only one-third of the price.
Range of Selection
Our refurbished excavators cover many brands, mainly including Caterpillar, Komatsu, Kobelco, Volvo, SANY, XCMG, Liugong, Lovol, and Sunward. From small to large, from basic to high-end models, customers can freely choose according to their needs and get direct brand comparison and price information.
Refurbishment Process
Our company has a complete refurbishment workshop and process, with all work conducted internally. If you require third-party inspection, we welcome it.
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Comprehensive Inspection
Technicians assess the engine, hydraulic system, undercarriage, electronics, and machine structure to determine which components can continue to be used and which need replacement. -
Power and Hydraulic System Repair
Engines may require injector replacement, cylinder cleaning, or turbocharger repair; hydraulic pumps, valves, seals, and hoses are refurbished or replaced. -
Undercarriage Renewal
Tracks, rollers, sprockets, and idlers are the most commonly worn parts and are usually replaced during refurbishment. -
Cabin and Control System
Seats, joysticks, display panels, and wiring harnesses are repaired or upgraded to improve operator comfort and safety, and modern monitoring systems may be added. -
Appearance Treatment
Through sanding, rust removal, painting, and protective coatings, the machine looks renewed and resists future corrosion. -
Performance Testing
After refurbishment, the machine is tested under load to ensure digging force, swing speed, and hydraulic response meet standard requirements.
EPA & Stage 5
EPA
1. Exporting as Used Equipment
Principle:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has relatively lenient requirements for importing used equipment, focusing primarily on preventing the import of “polluting new machines.”
Key Conditions:
- The equipment must have been previously used in China or another country, with documented operating hours.
- Customs declarations and commercial invoices must clearly state: “Used Construction Machinery.”
- The importer must declare that the equipment is intended solely for personal use, maintenance, or exhibition—not for sale as new machinery.
Risks:
Customs authorities at various ports and states—especially Los Angeles Port—may randomly inspect emission labels and engine models. If the equipment is found to be non-Tier 4 compliant, it may be denied entry or returned.
2. Interstate Differences (Example: Florida)
- The EPA is a federal agency, and its standards are consistent nationwide.
- However, enforcement strictness varies by state:
- California (CARB): The strictest enforcement; importing non-Tier 4 equipment is nearly impossible.
- Texas and Florida: More relaxed, especially regarding “used equipment” and “agricultural machinery.”
- Alaska, Guam, and other territories: Offer broader exemptions.
Practical Tip:
Many exporters choose Miami Port or Houston Port as entry points due to more flexible local enforcement.
Stage 5
Exporting as Used Equipment
If the machine has already been used in China, it can be exported as used equipment.
- Some EU countries have more relaxed emission requirements for used machinery.
In such cases, only an emission declaration is required, and Stage V certification is not mandatory. - The invoice and bill of lading must clearly state “used machinery”, and a technical inspection report should be attached.
Exporting via Non-Road or Special-Purpose Channels
This applies to equipment such as:
- Agricultural machinery
- Mining equipment
- Military vehicles
- Port handling machinery
- Forestry equipment
Such equipment may be legally exported by applying for the NRMM exemption (Non-Road Mobile Machinery exemption).
Installing DPF + SCR Systems and Re-Certification
Machines can be retrofitted and tested by third-party laboratories to meet Stage V standards.
- The cost is relatively high, with each machine potentially requiring an additional investment of €10,000–€30,000.
- A valid emission certificate must be obtained in accordance with EU Regulation (EU) 2016/1628.
Conclusion
You should confirm the following with customs:
- Whether only the engine is being audited. Whether the DFP is effective.
- Whether there are differences between new and used engines.
- Whether an excavator can be declared for agricultural use and receive an EPA or Stage 5 exemption.
Different ports have different implementation standards.
The engines of Sany excavators generally meet the China IV standard, and we can help you replace them with engines that meet the EPA standard. You know, China's product prices and labor costs are very low.
Youtube Videos
- How to Find the Cheapest Used Excavator in China
- If you plan to buy excavators from China
- 2024 Hitachi ZX70 with 300 hours, $14,500 USD?
- Is Third-Party Auditing Reliable? Not Really.
- Why do the hour meters on all the used excavators in China only show 500 hours?
- Why Do Used Construction Machines in China Look So Dirty and Ugly?
- How to Avoid Extra Costs When Buying an Excavator – Full Cost Checklist
- How to inspect a refurbished excavator
- HReally? Fake? Grey? A problem caused by cultural differences - “Ship of Theseus” paradox
- Can you really find reliable excavators on Alibaba?
FAQ
Q: Should I buy a used excavator or a refurbished one?
A: If you have the ability to repair and maintain excavators on your own, there’s no doubt that a used excavator is the better choice. You can handle the repairs and adjustments yourself. However, if labor and parts costs in your area are high, a refurbished excavator is the better option. In China, labor and parts costs are much lower. A refurbished machine will give you an experience almost equivalent to a new one.
Q: Why do refurbished excavators typically show around 500 hours of usage?
A: This is a common practice and the current reality in China's used heavy equipment industry, and we are powerless to change it. To distinguish them from new excavators, those with operating hours between 1000 and 4000 hours are set to 500 hours after refurbishment. Excavators with over 5000 hours are not worth refurbishing due to performance decline. Refurbished machines come with warranties, starting from the 500-hour mark, similar to a new machine.
Q: The salesperson told me this is a "stock machine." Is that true?
A: This is a sales pitch commonly used in China, but it’s highly unlikely that there are "stock machines" in the true sense. Even an old machine could never be sold at the price of a refurbished one.
Q: I need to use the excavator in a harsh environment. Can you recommend a suitable one for me?
A: The key issue isn't with the excavator itself—designers and sellers alike hope it will operate reliably. However, any excavator will encounter problems quickly in harsh environments. Therefore, the real key is having skilled technicians and experienced operators. Typically, construction companies employ repair technicians who regularly check the excavator for faults.
Q: Should I pay a deposit online?
A: If it’s for a long-term cooperation, this can be feasible. However, if it’s your first purchase, paying a deposit online is a high-risk move. Many Chinese companies use deposits as a major income source. Once the deposit is received, they gain the upper hand.
Q: Can I use the excavator directly after it arrives?
A: It depends on the size of the excavator. If your excavator doesn’t fit directly into the container, unfortunately, we’ll have to disassemble it and pack it into the container. You will need to reassemble it on your end.
Q: How is your spoken English?
A: We typically use a translator for communication, as very few people in this industry are fluent in English. If you have a WeChat account, its built-in translator is quite convenient for use.
Q: Is it really only 3 hours from Shanghai to Hefei by high-speed train?
A: It indeed takes around 3 hours from Shanghai Railway Station to Hefei Railway Station, but that's under ideal conditions. In reality, if you factor in transfer times, the total journey can take 6-7 hours. So, if you’re carrying a lot of luggage, it’s advisable to take a car directly.
Q: Which parts are replaced during a refurbishment? Are these original parts?
A: Rubber pipes and consumable parts. The main parts are usually cleaned rather than replaced. The parts that will not be replaced include the excavator body, engine, hydraulic pump, hydraulic distributor, and main control circuit system.
Q: All refurbishing work done in brand service centre or repair by yourself?
A: The repair center only services machines that are under warranty. The warranty period in China is 1000 hours.
Q: In refurbishing you change all parts was new and original from brand?
A: They are brand new. Usually, only the easily worn-out parts are replaced. They all come from reputable manufacturers, and their quality is comparable to the original parts.
Q: Are you an authorized dealer?
A: No, I'm not. The official warranty for the used equipment has already expired. Therefore, we do not need to obtain authorization. Furthermore, the brands of used equipment are very diverse. If we were to obtain authorization for every brand, we would likely become the world's largest used equipment dealer, employing hundreds of people, which would significantly increase costs, and the used excavators would also be sold at a much higher price.
Our Commitment
- VIN
- EPA Certificated
- 5year / 5000hour warranty
- Refurbishing Record / Parts replacement record
- Accept third-party audits
Payment
- Bank / Cash
- 30% deposit
- Paypal (Only For 3rd-party Audit Services)
Invoice Sample
We welcome all walks of life to carry out various forms of exchanges and cooperation with us. Please contact us before you leave. The market is located in the far suburbs of Hefei, and the transportation is not as convenient as in the city. It is recommended to drive here.
Why not Alibaba?
Personally, I support using Alibaba, but I'm not in charge of this project. The company closed its Alibaba account due to unsuccessful operations on the platform. Reapplying for an account would require a significant amount of funding, so currently, the company has no plans to reactivate its Alibaba account. But this doesn't make any difference to me personally; I believe that one day my personal credibility will outweigh this disadvantage.
We also provide live broadcast services to overseas audiences. To facilitate the promotion of domestic merchants, we do not have a channel in China. If you are abroad, you can watch our market live broadcast.
3rd-party Audits
Unlike traditional consulting firms' review methods, my review approach involves using WhatsApp video calls to give you a real-world perspective, acting as your eyes in China.
If you purchase from another company, we can also provide third-party audit services for you.
$100 per day, no extra charge for Shanghai and Hefei. Other cities: $0.2(*2)/kilometer(round trip), accommodation $30/day. PayPal, Alipay, WeChat, Bank
- Company legitimacy verification.
- Machine performance inspection.
- Loading and shipping supervision.
Documents
- Company business license
- Company dispute history records
- Machine performance demonstration video and detailed photos
- Parts replacement list
- Shipping invoice and shipping process video
- Other documents you requested
I don't take kickbacks from sales companies. When you buy my time, you're my only employer. In China, third-party companies might betray their employers for receiving kickbacks, or maliciously smear sales companies if they don't get their kickbacks. There are too many unspoken rules. This is why I dedicate my energy to foreign trade. I want everything to be simple and transparent, not manipulated by these unspoken rules.
About Me

My name is Mike Phua, and I am currently working in sales at Anhui Shengkun Construction Machinery Co., Ltd., where I am also a partner. Our company primarily deals in excavators, wheel loaders, and attachments. I have been in this industry for 3 years.
My company is located in Hefei, Anhui province, while I live in Pudong, Shanghai, and I am responsible for foreign trade affairs.
I am originally from Shanghai and was born in 1981. I graduated with a Master's degree in Management from the University of Shanghai for Science and Technology. I would be happy to be your friend in China and assist you with any challenges that distance may pose.
Whenever you need me, I will be at your service. I believe my name will become well-known in this industry, and you'll hear more and more people mentioning Mike Phua in the future.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Contacts

- [email protected]
- Youtube
- Navigation: G206 (Sishu Bridge) in Changfeng County, Hefei City, Anhui Province, 200 meters north to the east
- You can get off the plane at Shanghai Pudong Airport. I will take you to the company. It takes about 8 hours from Shanghai to Anhui. (Taking a car is more convenient and comfortable than taking the high-speed rail.)