Looking for construction equipment for sale? Here’s a quick overview of the best places to find reliable machinery:
- Equipment Types: Excavators, loaders, dozers, backhoes, skid steers, compactors
- Top Brands: Hitachi, Link-Belt, New Holland, Takeuchi, Komatsu, Volvo
The market for construction equipment for sale has evolved dramatically in recent years, with digital marketplaces changing how contractors and construction managers source machinery. Whether you’re in the market for excavators, wheel loaders, or compact track loaders, today’s online platforms offer unprecedented access to both new and used equipment from leading manufacturers like Hitachi, Link-Belt, New Holland, and Takeuchi.
The convenience of browsing thousands of listings from your office or job site has made equipment acquisition more efficient than ever, though it also requires careful evaluation of condition reports, service histories, and seller credentials.
I’m Jeffrey J. Miller, President of Kelbe Brothers Equipment, where I’ve guided our company through the evolving landscape of construction equipment for sale, expanding our offerings while maintaining our 60-year commitment to Wisconsin contractors.
Where to Find Construction Equipment for Sale Online
Finding quality construction equipment for sale has never been easier thanks to today’s booming digital marketplace. With Europe-Construction-Equipment.com hosting over 233,000 listings and Ritchie Bros showcasing more than 40,800 items worldwide, the options can feel endless—and sometimes overwhelming.
When I’m helping Wisconsin contractors steer these vast online catalogs, I always recommend using these essential search filters to zero in on exactly what you need:
- Equipment type (excavators, wheel loaders, skid steers, etc.)
- Age and condition (new vs. used)
- Operating hours (a key indicator of wear)
- Location (to minimize delivery costs)
- Brand (Hitachi, Link-Belt, New Holland, Takeuchi)
At Kelbe Bros., we’ve learned through decades of experience that verified listings make all the difference for our customers. When you’re browsing online for construction equipment for sale, keep an eye out for these trust signals that separate legitimate listings from risky ones: detailed inspection reports with multiple photos, complete equipment history documentation, seller ratings from previous buyers, secure payment options, and transparent return policies.
Safety online matters too. According to scientific research on safe e-commerce practices, using secure browsers and being cautious with payment information can protect you from fraud when making large equipment purchases.
As a family-owned business serving Wisconsin contractors for generations, we believe in complete transparency. That’s why we provide comprehensive information for every piece of equipment, including detailed service records, accurate usage hours, and honest condition assessments. This kind of openness builds trust and helps you make investments with confidence.
New vs Used Construction Equipment for Sale
One of the biggest decisions when shopping for construction equipment for sale is choosing between new and used machinery. Both paths have their merits depending on your specific needs and budget considerations.
| Factor | New Equipment | Used Equipment |
| Initial Cost | Higher upfront investment | 40-60% lower initial cost |
| Warranty | Full manufacturer coverage | Limited or no warranty (unless certified) |
| Technology | Latest features and emissions compliance | May lack newest technology |
| Availability | May require ordering/wait time | Immediate availability |
| Depreciation | Steepest in first 12-24 months | More gradual value decline |
| Maintenance | Minimal early maintenance needs | May require immediate service |
| Financing | Often easier with better terms | May require larger down payment |
| Documentation | Complete history from day one | Service records may be incomplete |
Here at Kelbe Bros., we’re proud to offer both new and used options across all our Wisconsin locations—Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, Butler, and De Pere. Every used machine in our inventory undergoes a thorough inspection and reconditioning process before we list it for sale. We wouldn’t sell anything we wouldn’t use ourselves.
What many contractors don’t realize is just how much life remains in quality used equipment. IronPlanet data shows that well-maintained machines from trusted manufacturers like Hitachi, Link-Belt, New Holland, and Takeuchi often deliver excellent productivity well beyond 10,000 operating hours. For seasonal work or tight budgets, these pre-owned options can deliver tremendous value without sacrificing reliability.
Tips for Negotiating Construction Equipment for Sale
I’ve been on both sides of the negotiation table during my years at Kelbe Bros., and I’ve learned that good negotiation creates win-win outcomes. Here are some friendly tips from our family to yours:
Do your homework first. Research recent sales of similar models with comparable hours. Auction results from Ritchie Bros. can give you solid benchmarks for fair market value.
Use inspection findings wisely. If you spot issues during your walk-around, calculate what those repairs might cost and discuss them respectfully. Knowledge is power, but partnership is even better.
Consider timing in your approach. Dealers (ourselves included) sometimes have more flexibility at month-end or quarter-end when we’re looking to meet goals. The same goes for slower seasonal periods.
Bundle purchases when possible. If you need multiple pieces or attachments, we’re often able to create package deals that benefit everyone involved.
Ask about service history. A machine with meticulous maintenance records deserves a premium, while spotty documentation might warrant a discount. This is just common sense.
Stay flexible on terms. Sometimes, creative payment schedules, trade-ins, or other arrangements can open up better pricing than a straight cash negotiation.
Inquire about upcoming model releases. When manufacturers announce new versions, current inventory often becomes more negotiable. A simple question about what’s coming next can lead to surprising opportunities.
At Kelbe Bros., we believe fair negotiations leave both parties feeling good about the deal. We price our construction equipment for sale to reflect its true value and condition, creating relationships that last for generations, just like our family business has.
Top Picks by Equipment Category: Hitachi, New Holland, Takeuchi & Link-Belt
When it comes to construction equipment for sale, choosing the right machine for your specific job makes all the difference. After decades of helping Wisconsin contractors find their perfect match, we’ve developed a pretty good eye for which machines shine in different applications. Let me walk you through some standout performers that our customers consistently praise:
Hitachi Wheel Loaders & Compact Excavators
If you’ve ever watched a Hitachi wheel loader in action, you know why Wisconsin contractors love them. Their ZW series combines muscle with finesse, giving you powerful productivity without sacrificing operator comfort.
What makes these loaders special? It’s the combination of spacious cabs with excellent visibility (no more straining your neck all day), responsive hydraulics that feel like an extension of your hands, and fuel-efficient engines that won’t drain your budget. The durable components mean less downtime, and the intelligent technology optimizes performance whether you’re moving aggregates, building roads, or tackling general construction.
The quick-coupler system is another feature our customers rave about – swap attachments in minutes instead of hours, keeping your crew productive all day long.
Hitachi’s compact excavators bring that same reliability in a smaller package. Perfect for urban work or tight spaces, these machines offer zero-tail swing options, impressive digging depth despite their compact size, and the smooth hydraulic control Hitachi is known for. They’re easy to transport between sites and sip fuel rather than guzzle it.
Time and again, we hear from Wisconsin contractors that their Hitachi equipment just keeps going, year after year, with minimal fuss and low operating costs. That’s the kind of long-term value that makes sense for your business.
Link-Belt Excavators & Material Handlers
When precision digging matters, Link-Belt excavators consistently impress. As an authorized Link-Belt dealer, we’ve equipped countless Wisconsin contractors with these machines for pipeline installation, foundation work, mass excavation, utility trenching, and demolition.
The X4 series excavators feature RemoteCARE® telematics (so you can monitor machine health from your phone), multiple work modes to balance power and efficiency, and operator stations comfortable enough for those long summer days. Their reinforced frames stand up to Wisconsin’s toughest conditions, while the superior hydraulic flow gives you versatility with attachments.
Link-Belt material handlers take these capabilities up a notch with specialized booms and attachments designed specifically for sorting, loading, and material transfer. The lifted cabs give operators an excellent view of the work area, and the purpose-built hydraulic systems deliver the precise control needed for efficient material handling.
What really sets Link-Belt apart in Wisconsin? Their cold-weather performance. When temperatures plummet and other machines struggle to start, Link-Belt equipment keeps your crew working.
New Holland 200 Series Loaders & Mini Excavators
New Holland’s 200 Series skid steer loaders and compact track loaders have become worksite favorites across Wisconsin, and for good reason. Their Super Boom® vertical lift design gives you excellent reach and lift height, while the cab design offers industry-leading visibility (no more blind spots causing headaches).
The comfortable cabs with intuitive controls mean less operator fatigue, powerful hydraulics handle demanding attachments with ease, and ground-level access points make daily maintenance quick and simple.
The track loader variants really shine in Wisconsin’s varied terrain – from sandy coastal areas to heavy clay regions. Their low ground pressure won’t tear up sensitive surfaces, yet they still deliver impressive pushing and lifting performance in challenging conditions.
New Holland mini excavators complement these loaders perfectly. Their zero-tail swing options work wonders in confined spaces, while auto-shift travel ensures smooth operation. The proportional auxiliary hydraulics give you precise attachment control, and some models even feature expandable undercarriages for extra stability when you need it. The foldable ROPS makes transport under low clearances a breeze.
Our Wisconsin customers consistently tell us their New Holland equipment delivers reliable performance across diverse applications – from detailed landscaping to demanding utility work.
Takeuchi Compact & Zero-Swing Excavators
Takeuchi pioneered the compact excavator back in the 1970s, and they’ve been refining the concept ever since. Their compact excavators feature short-radius and zero-swing designs that are perfect for urban environments where space comes at a premium.
Despite their small footprint, these machines pack powerful hydraulics, comfortable operator stations with excellent visibility, and components built tough enough for rental-fleet punishment. The proportional auxiliary hydraulics make attachment operation smooth and intuitive.
Takeuchi’s zero-swing excavators are particularly valuable when working alongside buildings, in narrow roadways, or among existing utilities – no worries about tail swing damage or constantly repositioning the machine.
Their compact wheel loaders complement these excavators perfectly, with articulating frames for tight turning, parallel lift arms for precise material handling, and comfortable cabs that keep operators productive all day. The powerful hydraulics deliver quick cycle times, and multiple attachment options give you the versatility to tackle diverse projects.
Many Takeuchi units in our rental fleet have exceeded 5,000 hours with nothing more than routine maintenance – that’s the kind of reliability that keeps your projects on schedule and your costs predictable.
At Kelbe Bros., we’re proud to represent these quality brands across Wisconsin. Stop by any of our locations to see these machines up close and discuss which one might be the perfect fit for your next project.
Smart Financing, Rentals & Parts Support
When you’re looking for construction equipment for sale, finding the perfect machine is just the first step. At Kelbe Bros., we’ve learned over four generations that what happens after the purchase often matters most to Wisconsin contractors.
We’ve designed our financing options with real Wisconsin businesses in mind. Instead of rigid one-size-fits-all plans, we offer solutions that breathe with your business cycle. For contractors with seasonal work patterns, our seasonal payment structures align with your actual cash flow, including skip-payment options during those inevitable slow periods. Qualified buyers can often start with little to no down payment, and our equipment leasing programs let you test-drive ownership with rental fees that apply toward purchase.
“We financed our New Holland skid steer through Kelbe last spring,” a Madison contractor recently told us. “They structured the payments around our busiest months, which made all the difference for our cash flow.”
Our rental program has become a lifeline for many Wisconsin contractors facing short-term needs. Whether you need a Link-Belt excavator for a two-week drainage project or a Hitachi wheel loader to clear a winter storm, we’ve got you covered with daily, weekly, and monthly options. Our well-maintained fleet features low-hour machines that arrive ready to work, and we’ll deliver them right to your jobsite anywhere in Wisconsin.
What truly sets us apart, though, is our commitment to keeping your equipment running. Our parts department maintains an extensive inventory of genuine OEM components for all our equipment lines – Hitachi, Link-Belt, New Holland, and Takeuchi. When you need something we don’t have on hand, our team moves quickly, with emergency parts delivery throughout Wisconsin. Our parts specialists aren’t just order-takers; they’re factory-trained experts who can help troubleshoot problems and find exactly what you need, even for those hard-to-find components.
As Tom from Green Bay put it: “I called Kelbe at 6 AM with a hydraulic issue on my Takeuchi excavator. They had the part on a truck by 7 and I was back digging by noon. That kind of service is priceless when you’ve got deadlines.”
This comprehensive approach reflects our family’s belief that selling equipment is just the beginning of a relationship. We’re here to support Wisconsin contractors through the entire equipment lifecycle, from initial purchase through years of productive service.
More info about finance services, More info about rental services, More info about parts support
Inspection Checklist & After-Sale Services
When evaluating construction equipment for sale, a thorough inspection can save you thousands in future repairs. At Kelbe Bros., we’ve learned a thing or two about equipment assessment over our decades serving Wisconsin contractors, and we’re happy to share our practical wisdom.
Start with a good old-fashioned walk-around. You’d be surprised what you can spot with the right eyes. Check the frame for any cracks or suspicious welds that might indicate previous damage. Inspect attachment connections for excessive wear – these can tell you how hard the machine has worked. For wheeled equipment, examine tire condition closely, while tracked machines need careful undercarriage assessment. And always look underneath for those telltale fluid drips that might signal bigger problems.
The engine compartment reveals the machine’s true history. Oil condition speaks volumes – it should be clean and at the proper level. Coolant clarity is equally important; cloudy coolant often indicates neglected maintenance. Don’t overlook the air filter – a clogged or dirty filter suggests poor maintenance practices. While you’re there, check belt tension, battery connections, and give all hoses a good squeeze to ensure they’re not brittle or leaking.
Hydraulic systems are the lifeblood of construction equipment. Cylinder seals should be dry without weeping fluid. Examine hydraulic hoses throughout the machine – they’re expensive to replace when they fail. The hydraulic fluid itself should be clean and clear, not cloudy or dark. When possible, cycle all functions to ensure smooth operation without jerking or unusual noises that might indicate pump problems or air in the system.
The operator station tells you how the previous owner treated the machine. Controls should respond immediately without sticking. All gauges should work properly, and warning lights should illuminate during startup checks. The seat condition often reflects overall machine care – a torn, broken seat frequently indicates broader neglect. Don’t forget to test the HVAC system and check all glass for cracks that could spread.
For tracked machines, undercarriage inspection is critical and often overlooked. This system typically represents 50% of lifetime maintenance costs. Examine sprockets and idlers for excessive wear patterns. Track pads should have good remaining life. Rollers should turn freely without wobble, and track tension should be appropriate, not too tight or too loose. Any leaking seals in this area can lead to expensive repairs down the road.
Modern equipment benefits from electronic inspection, too. Download fault codes from the machine’s computer system – these digital breadcrumbs reveal issues the seller might not mention. Compare the hour meter reading against physical wear indicators to verify accuracy. Test all lighting systems and review any available telematics data to understand how the machine has been used and maintained.
After you’ve found the perfect piece of equipment, our relationship is just beginning. At Kelbe Bros., we believe in supporting our customers long after the sale. We’ll start with a proper equipment orientation to make sure you understand all the features of your new machine. Our technicians can develop customized preventative maintenance plans that fit your specific usage patterns and budget.
For additional peace of mind, we offer extended warranty options on most equipment. Our remote monitoring services through telematics keep an eye on your machine’s health, often allowing us to spot potential issues before they cause downtime. And when emergencies happen – because they always do – our 24/7 emergency service support is just a phone call away.
With factory-trained technicians at all five Wisconsin locations, we’re never far from your jobsite. We understand that in construction, time is money, which is why we prioritize rapid response and efficient service. It’s not just about selling you equipment – it’s about keeping you running profitably for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions about Construction Equipment for Sale
What documents do I need before finalizing a construction equipment for sale transaction?
Paperwork might not be the most exciting part of buying equipment, but it’s one of the most important! When you’re ready to finalize your construction equipment for sale purchase, you’ll want to make sure you have all the right documentation in hand.
First and foremost, you’ll need a detailed Bill of Sale that transfers ownership. This should spell out everything about the machine – make, model, serial number, year of manufacture, along with the purchase price and complete information for both you and the seller.
Some equipment requires a formal Equipment Title, depending on your state’s regulations. It’s always worth checking local requirements before finalizing your purchase.
If you’re buying new equipment or a used machine with remaining coverage, don’t forget to secure all Warranty Documentation. This paperwork can save you thousands down the road if issues arise.
A complete set of Maintenance Records is worth its weight in gold! These records help verify that the equipment has been properly cared for and give you insights into any recurring issues.
Don’t overlook the Operating Manuals – they’re essential for proper operation and basic maintenance, especially if you’re working with a model that’s new to your team.
Recent Inspection Reports, including oil analysis or component evaluations, provide valuable information about the current condition of the equipment.
For equipment operating in areas with strict regulations, Emissions Compliance Documentation is essential.
And of course, if you’re financing your purchase, you’ll need all the appropriate Finance Documents, including loan or lease agreements.
Here at Kelbe Bros., we make this process hassle-free by providing comprehensive documentation with every sale. We want to make sure you have everything you need for proper registration, operation, and maintenance of your new equipment.
How long does delivery typically take after purchasing construction equipment for sale online?
“When can I get my machine?” It’s one of the first questions our customers ask after making a purchase, and the answer depends on several factors.
For construction equipment for sale that’s already in our Wisconsin inventory, we can typically deliver within 1-3 business days. We know that when you make a purchase, you’re eager to put that equipment to work!
If you’re purchasing equipment that needs to be brought in from further away, delivery might take 5-10 business days, depending on the distance involved.
Larger equipment requires specialized transport arrangements, which sometimes take a bit longer to coordinate than standard delivery. Those massive wheel loaders don’t exactly fit in a standard delivery van!
Before any delivery, we perform thorough inspections and basic servicing. This might add a day or two to the timeline, but it ensures your equipment arrives ready to work from day one – a delay that actually saves you time in the long run.
If you’ve requested specific attachments or modifications to your equipment, this naturally extends the timeline a bit. The same goes for brand-new equipment that might need to be ordered from the manufacturer if it’s not currently in stock.
At Kelbe Bros., we believe in clear communication about delivery timelines. We provide estimated delivery dates at purchase and keep you updated throughout the process. And if you’re in a real pinch, we can sometimes expedite delivery or offer rental solutions while you wait for your purchased equipment to arrive.
Can I test a machine on-site before committing to construction equipment for sale?
Absolutely! We wouldn’t expect you to buy a car without a test drive, and construction equipment for sale is an even bigger investment. At Kelbe Bros., we not only allow equipment testing before purchase – we actively encourage it!
Our popular scheduled demonstrations bring the equipment right to your location or job site. This gives you the chance to test the machine in your actual working environment – the best way to know if it’s truly right for your needs.
During these demos, you can personally operate the equipment, testing all functions and seeing how it performs under various conditions. It’s your chance to really get a feel for the machine before making a commitment.
Our equipment specialists come along to explain technical features and answer any questions you might have during the demonstration. Think of it as having your own personal equipment guide!
For those who need more extended evaluation time, our short-term rental options allow you to use the equipment for several days before deciding to purchase. There’s simply no better way to know if a machine is right for your operation than using it for your actual work.
You’re also always welcome to visit any of our five Wisconsin locations to inspect and test equipment in our inventory. Our doors are open, and our coffee is always hot!
This “try before you buy” approach has been part of our family business philosophy for generations. We believe confident buyers become satisfied long-term customers, which is why we make equipment testing as accessible as possible. After all, the right machine for your specific needs is the one that’s going to deliver the best value over its lifetime.
Conclusion
Finding quality construction equipment for sale isn’t just about the machinery itself—it’s about finding a partner who understands your business needs from the ground up. Throughout this guide, we’ve walked through what matters most when investing in equipment from trusted brands like Hitachi, Link-Belt, New Holland, and Takeuchi.
As a fourth-generation family business serving Wisconsin contractors for over 60 years, we at Kelbe Brothers Equipment bring something special to the table: genuine understanding. Our team has weathered the same Wisconsin winters as you have, seen the same soil conditions you’re working with, and faced the same seasonal challenges that affect your business.
We’ve helped countless contractors find their perfect match, whether it’s a powerful Hitachi wheel loader that keeps running season after season, a versatile Link-Belt excavator that handles Wisconsin’s varied terrain with ease, a reliable New Holland skid steer that’s become the backbone of many local operations, or a nimble Takeuchi excavator that gets into spaces others simply can’t reach.
What truly sets us apart isn’t just our inventory—it’s what happens after you make your purchase. Our rapid response service teams across Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, Butler, and De Pere are ready when you need them, with 24/7 emergency support that keeps downtime to an absolute minimum. We understand that in construction, time truly is money.
While the online marketplace offers convenience, there’s simply no replacement for being able to kick the tires, test the controls, and talk face-to-face with someone who genuinely understands your business challenges. That’s the Kelbe Brothers difference—personalized attention from people who’ve been in this industry for generations, not algorithms or distant call centers.
We believe equipment purchases should feel confident, not confusing. That’s why we take the time to match you with machines that will deliver value throughout their entire operational life, backed by financing options designed specifically for Wisconsin contractors.
We’d love to show you the Kelbe Brothers difference in person. Stop by one of our five Wisconsin locations, schedule a demonstration at your job site, or browse our current inventory to see what makes us different. After all, we’re not just selling equipment—we’re building relationships that last as long as the machines we provide.