Construction equipment manufacturers form the backbone of global infrastructure development, providing the machines that build our cities, roads, and industries. For those seeking a quick overview of the top players in this market, here are the leading manufacturers in 2024:
- Komatsu – $26.2 billion revenue (2023)
- Liebherr – $15.2 billion revenue (2023)
- XCMG – $11.9 billion revenue (2023)
- Sany Heavy Industry – $11.4 billion revenue (2023)
- Volvo Construction Equipment – $10.7 billion revenue (2023)
- Hitachi Construction Machinery – $9.86 billion revenue (2023)
The global construction equipment market reached a staggering $149.7 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow to $194.7 billion by 2030. This growth is driven by increasing urbanization, infrastructure development, and technological innovations like automation and telematics.
Today’s construction landscape demands more than just powerful machines—it requires smart, sustainable equipment that can boost productivity while reducing environmental impact. The leading manufacturers are responding with electric alternatives, autonomous capabilities, and advanced fleet management systems that optimize performance and minimize downtime.
I’m Jeffrey J. Miller, President of Kelbe Brothers Equipment, where I’ve spent years working directly with construction equipment manufacturers to provide Wisconsin contractors with the machinery they need to succeed. My experience has given me knowledge of how the right equipment partner can make all the difference in keeping projects on schedule and within budget.
Global Snapshot of Construction Equipment Manufacturers in 2024
Despite global economic headwinds, the construction equipment industry continues to show impressive strength and resilience. Currently valued at around $186.56 billion, experts project the market will surge beyond $300 billion by 2032—a testament to the sector’s vital role in global development.
When we evaluate construction equipment manufacturers at Kelbe Brothers, we consider several factors that truly matter to Wisconsin contractors:
Annual revenue tells part of the story—the top 10 manufacturers collectively achieved an astounding $232.7 billion in sales in 2021, up 20.8% from the previous year. But beyond the numbers, we look at product quality, innovation commitment, dealer support networks, and environmental initiatives.
Technology has become the great differentiator in today’s equipment landscape. Modern machines now come equipped with sophisticated telematics systems as standard features, not just optional add-ons. These systems give contractors unprecedented visibility into their fleet’s health, location, and productivity in real-time. At Kelbe Brothers, we’ve seen how these technologies help our customers reduce costly downtime, optimize fuel consumption, and extend the working life of their valuable equipment.
The automation revolution continues to transform job sites across Wisconsin and beyond. From precision grade control systems on Hitachi excavators to semi-autonomous features in New Holland wheel loaders, these advancements are dramatically improving both safety and efficiency. According to the latest research on the equipment market, these technological trends will only accelerate in the coming years.
Regional Demand Shifts & Preferences
The global equipment market shows fascinating regional variations that smart contractors should understand.
Here in the United States, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act has created a surge in demand for heavy earthmoving equipment like Link-Belt excavators and Hitachi wheel loaders. American contractors prioritize robust dealer support, rapid parts availability, and equipment that can withstand punishing conditions day after day.
European markets have accepted stricter emissions standards, driving manufacturers to develop more electric and hybrid options. Their focus on sustainability has pushed innovation that’s now benefiting contractors worldwide, including those here in Wisconsin who want to reduce their environmental footprint while maintaining productivity.
In rapidly developing Asian markets, urbanization continues at a breathtaking pace. The construction boom in China and India has reshaped the global equipment landscape, with massive infrastructure projects requiring everything from compact equipment to the largest excavators and wheel loaders available.
At Kelbe Brothers Equipment, we carefully track these global trends while staying focused on what matters most to our Wisconsin customers—reliable equipment from trusted construction equipment manufacturers backed by our family’s four generations of expertise and support.
Product Roundup: Category Leaders You Should Know
Finding the right equipment for your construction projects means knowing which construction equipment manufacturers truly shine in their categories. At Kelbe Brothers Equipment, we’ve built partnerships with the industry’s best manufacturers to give Wisconsin contractors access to exceptional machinery that gets the job done right. Here’s our handpicked lineup of manufacturers we proudly represent:
Hitachi: Innovation-Driven Construction Equipment Manufacturers
When it comes to combining reliability with cutting-edge technology, Hitachi Construction Machinery stands in a class of its own. With an impressive 2023 revenue of $9.86 billion and 192 dealership locations across the US, Hitachi delivers Japanese engineering excellence backed by responsive global support.
Hitachi excavators have earned their reputation as the crown jewels of the brand’s engineering prowess. From versatile mid-size models to massive ultra-large machines, these excavators deliver remarkable digging power without sacrificing fuel efficiency. The ZAXIS series features hydraulic systems that operators love for their smooth, precise control—even when tackling the most demanding jobs.
Need big performance in tight spaces? Hitachi compact excavators bring the same engineering excellence to confined job sites where every inch matters. Their zero-tail swing designs let you work right next to buildings and obstacles without worrying about tail swing damage. With quieter engines and comfort-focused cabs, these machines are perfect for urban projects where operator fatigue and noise restrictions are concerns.
Hitachi wheel loaders strike that perfect balance between raw power and smart fuel economy. The ZW series comes equipped with advanced telematics, intuitive controls, and cabs designed to give operators exceptional visibility throughout long shifts. Their quick-coupler systems make attachment changes a breeze, so you can switch from buckets to forks in minutes rather than hours.
What truly sets Hitachi apart is its ConSite analytics platform. This smart system collects real-time data from each machine, giving you detailed insights into performance, fuel usage, and maintenance needs. By spotting potential issues before they cause breakdowns, ConSite helps keep your equipment running when you need it most.
Hitachi’s commitment to sustainability shines through their growing line of battery-electric excavators and wheel loaders. These zero-emission machines deliver the same power as their diesel counterparts but without exhaust emissions, making them ideal choices for indoor demolition, tunnel work, and environmentally sensitive projects.
Link-Belt Excavators & Material Handlers
Link-Belt has built its reputation on machines that can take a beating while delivering sophisticated performance. As a trusted American manufacturer, Link-Belt equipment is designed specifically to handle the toughest working conditions without missing a beat.
Link-Belt excavators combine reliability with productivity across a wide range of applications. Their X-Series features hydraulic systems that give operators precise control while keeping fuel consumption in check. Every model comes standard with RemoteCARE GPS telematics, letting you track location, monitor performance, and stay on top of maintenance needs from anywhere.
For specialized material handling applications, Link-Belt material handlers excel in recycling yards, scrap processing, and bulk material handling. These purpose-built machines feature liftd cabs for better visibility, specialized attachments for efficient material sorting, and reinforced undercarriages that stand up to the punishing conditions of scrap yard work. Their hydraulic systems are specifically tuned for attachment operation, giving operators the precise control needed for sorting and loading applications.
Link-Belt’s extensive dealer network ensures you’ll never wait long for parts or service support throughout North America. Their specialized attachments—including grapples, shears, and magnets—let you configure your machine for specific applications, maximizing both productivity and versatility.
New Holland’s 200-Series & Mini Lineup
New Holland Construction offers a comprehensive equipment range known for versatility, operator comfort, and smart features. As part of CNH Industrial, New Holland brings global resources together with responsive local support.
The New Holland skid steer loaders in the 200 Series pack impressive performance into compact frames. These machines feature industry-leading visibility, easy maintenance access, and lifting capacities that might surprise you. The Super Boom vertical lift design gives operators maximum forward reach at full height—perfect for loading trucks efficiently.
When the ground gets soft or uneven, New Holland compact track loaders in the 200 Series shine with superior traction and stability. Their low ground pressure lets you work in conditions that would leave wheeled machines spinning their tires, while their robust track systems deliver exceptional pushing force and grading capabilities. Operators appreciate the comfortable cabs with excellent visibility and controls that feel natural even after a long day.
New Holland compact wheel loaders offer the perfect blend of maneuverability and lifting muscle. Their articulated steering helps you steer through tight spaces, while Z-bar linkage provides the breakout force needed to tackle tough digging jobs. With a wide range of attachments available, these versatile machines handle everything from material handling to snow removal with ease.
For big performance in small packages, New Holland mini excavators deliver full-sized capability where space is limited. Available with zero-tail swing configurations, these machines work effectively alongside structures without sacrificing digging performance. Quick-coupler systems make attachment changes fast and simple, boosting versatility across different job requirements.
When your project demands serious earthmoving, New Holland wheel loaders step up with productivity-focused engineering. Their curved boom design gives operators clear visibility to the bucket, while load-sensing hydraulic systems deliver power precisely when needed. Smart transmission controls optimize shifting based on load and conditions, maximizing fuel efficiency without operator intervention.
Rounding out the lineup, New Holland crawler dozers combine impressive pushing power with precise blade control. Their hydrostatic drive systems provide infinite speed control and counter-rotation capability, making them remarkably maneuverable in tight spaces. Available with GPS-guided blade control systems, these machines can achieve finish-grade accuracy with minimal operator input.
Takeuchi’s Compact & Zero-Swing Specialists
As the original inventor of the compact excavator, Takeuchi continues to lead in compact equipment innovation with machines that deliver exceptional performance in confined spaces.
Takeuchi compact excavators combine powerful digging performance with remarkable durability. Their reinforced frames and protected hydraulic components stand up to daily abuse, while precisely matched hydraulic systems provide the smooth, responsive control operators love. Many models feature expandable undercarriages, allowing them to squeeze through narrow openings and then expand for rock-solid stability during operation.
When working alongside buildings or in tight spaces, Takeuchi zero swing excavators eliminate the worry of tail swing impacts. These machines maintain full digging performance despite their compact dimensions, making them ideal for urban renovation, utility installation, and detailed landscaping work. Their 360-degree rotation capability often eliminates the need to reposition the machine, boosting productivity in confined areas.
For challenging terrain, Takeuchi compact track loaders deliver exceptional traction and stability. Their wide tracks distribute weight evenly, reducing ground pressure and allowing operation on soft surfaces that would stop other machines. Operators appreciate the pilot-operated joystick controls that provide precise attachment manipulation, while the spacious cabs offer excellent visibility and all-day comfort.
Completing the lineup, Takeuchi compact wheel loaders combine the nimble maneuverability of articulated steering with impressive lifting capacity. Their parallel-lift arms maintain load position throughout the lifting range—a feature that material handling specialists particularly value. Available with numerous attachments, these versatile machines transition smoothly between loading, lifting, and cleanup tasks with minimal downtime.
Key Buying Factors & Emerging Tech Trends
When shopping for construction equipment, certain factors can make or break your experience with construction equipment manufacturers. At Kelbe Brothers, we’ve spent generations watching what makes contractors happy with their equipment choices – and what doesn’t.
Service network accessibility tops the list for most of our customers. Having service locations nearby means faster help when breakdowns happen, minimizing costly downtime. This becomes especially important during peak construction season when every hour counts.
Parts availability goes hand-in-hand with service. Even the toughest machines need maintenance, and waiting days for a critical part can derail project timelines. The best construction equipment manufacturers maintain robust parts inventories and efficient distribution systems that get components to you quickly.
Many contractors appreciate flexible acquisition options, including rentals for specialized or short-term needs. We’ve seen growing popularity in rent-to-own programs that let you apply rental payments toward eventual purchase, perfect for testing equipment before committing.
Technology integration has become increasingly important as job sites become more connected. Modern machines now feature intuitive interfaces that provide real-time performance data and seamlessly connect with existing project management systems. This connectivity helps optimize equipment deployment and monitor productivity across multiple sites.
The quality of dealer support often makes the difference between a good equipment experience and a great one. Beyond basic maintenance, knowledgeable dealer personnel provide application expertise, operator training, and proactive maintenance planning that maximize your investment’s value.
Telematics systems have revolutionized equipment management by providing real-time data on location, fuel consumption, utilization, and maintenance needs. These systems help you identify inefficient operation patterns and schedule preventive maintenance before breakdowns occur. More info about Parts & Service shows how we support these systems.
Automation continues advancing rapidly across the industry. Grade control systems maintain precise bucket positioning, reducing rework and improving efficiency. Some machines now offer semi-autonomous features that assist operators with repetitive tasks, reducing fatigue while improving consistency and productivity.
Why Sustainability Sets These Construction Equipment Manufacturers Apart
Sustainability has evolved from a nice-to-have feature to an essential consideration for leading construction equipment manufacturers. This shift reflects both tightening regulations and growing customer demand for environmentally responsible equipment.
Modern machines feature low-emission engines that meet or exceed Tier 4 Final and Stage V standards. These advanced power plants dramatically reduce particulate matter and nitrogen oxide emissions compared to previous generations, improving air quality for operators and surrounding communities.
Fuel efficiency improvements deliver both environmental benefits and cost savings. Today’s equipment incorporates intelligent hydraulic systems that provide power only when needed, engine auto-idle features that reduce consumption during inactive periods, and eco-modes that optimize performance for specific applications.
Remanufacturing programs represent another meaningful sustainability initiative. These programs rebuild used components to original specifications, reducing waste while providing cost-effective alternatives to new parts. Hitachi’s remanufacturing operations, for example, restore used engines and hydraulic components to like-new condition while maintaining performance standards.
The growth of hybrid and electric power systems continues across product lines. Hitachi excavators and wheel loaders with electric power systems eliminate exhaust emissions entirely, making them ideal for indoor operation, urban environments, and environmentally sensitive areas. While initial purchase costs typically exceed diesel equivalents, lower operating expenses and reduced maintenance requirements often deliver favorable total ownership costs over time.
Equipment design now incorporates recyclability considerations from the earliest stages. Manufacturers increasingly use materials that can be recovered and reused at end-of-life, reducing landfill impact while conserving resources for future generations.
How Top Construction Equipment Manufacturers Support After-Sales Service
The quality of after-sales support often determines whether you love or regret your equipment purchase. Leading manufacturers have developed comprehensive support systems that maximize uptime and extend equipment lifespan.
24/7 support availability has become standard among premium manufacturers. Emergency hotlines connect you with technical specialists who can troubleshoot issues remotely, often resolving problems without requiring a service visit. When on-site service becomes necessary, these systems dispatch technicians with the right skills and parts to complete repairs efficiently.
Predictive maintenance represents a game-changing advancement in equipment support. By analyzing data from onboard sensors, manufacturers can identify developing issues before they cause failures. This approach transforms maintenance from a reactive scramble to a planned activity that minimizes disruption to your operations.
Remote diagnostics capabilities allow technicians to evaluate machine health without visiting your job site. By connecting to onboard computers, service personnel can access fault codes, operating parameters, and historical data that guide troubleshooting and repair planning. This capability reduces diagnostic time and ensures technicians arrive prepared with the correct parts and tools.
Comprehensive dealer training programs ensure service personnel remain current on the latest equipment and technologies. Construction equipment manufacturers invest heavily in technical education centers where technicians learn through hands-on experience with actual equipment. These programs typically include both general mechanical training and model-specific certification courses.
At Kelbe Brothers Equipment, we’ve built our service approach around these industry best practices. Our technicians receive regular factory training on Hitachi excavators, Link-Belt excavators, New Holland equipment, and Takeuchi machines. Our parts department maintains an extensive inventory, and our 24/7 emergency support ensures we’re available whenever you need assistance. As a fourth-generation, family-owned business, we understand that our success depends on keeping your equipment working reliably. More info about Rental Equipment shows how we extend this support to our rental fleet as well.
Side-by-Side Comparison of Heavy Hitters’ Core Offerings
Shopping for construction equipment can feel overwhelming with so many options available. To help you make sense of what each manufacturer brings to the table, we’ve created this practical comparison of the key brands we proudly represent at Kelbe Brothers Equipment.
| Feature | Hitachi | Link-Belt | New Holland | Takeuchi |
| Excavator Range | Mini to ultra-large | Mid-size to large | Mini to mid-size | Compact to mid-size |
| Wheel Loader Range | Compact to large | N/A | Compact to large | Compact |
| Track Loader Options | N/A | N/A | 200 Series | Compact |
| Telematics System | ConSite | RemoteCARE | FleetForce | Takeuchi Fleet Management |
| Electric Options | Yes (excavators, loaders) | No | Limited | No |
| Dealer Locations (US) | 192 | 150+ | 300+ | 200+ |
| Hydraulic System | TRIAS | WAVES | Smart Hydraulics | Pilot-operated |
| Operator Comfort | Premium cab with air suspension seat | Spacious cab with heated seat | Comfort cab with excellent visibility | Roomy cab with adjustable controls |
| Attachment Compatibility | Extensive | Extensive | Extensive | Extensive |
| Warranty Coverage | 3-year/3,000-hour standard | 3-year/10,000-hour standard | 2-year/2,000-hour standard | 2-year/2,000-hour standard |
Each of these construction equipment manufacturers brings something special to your jobsite. Hitachi shines with their sophisticated hydraulic systems and digital fleet management tools that keep you connected to your machines 24/7. When you need equipment built to handle the toughest conditions, Link-Belt delivers exceptional durability with purpose-built configurations for specialized work.
New Holland offers remarkable versatility across its equipment lineup, with user-friendly controls that operators love. And if you’re working in tight spaces but still need serious power, Takeuchi’s compact equipment delivers full-sized performance when every inch matters.
The right manufacturer for your business depends on what you do every day. A residential contractor might benefit most from Takeuchi’s compact equipment line, while a commercial excavation company might lean toward Hitachi’s larger machines with advanced telematics.
At Kelbe Brothers Equipment, we’ve worked with these manufacturers for decades. We know these machines inside and out, beyond what you’ll find on any spec sheet. Our team can help you weigh factors like application needs, operating environment, and business goals to find equipment that truly fits your work.
Frequently Asked Questions about Construction Equipment Manufacturers
What criteria rank leading construction equipment manufacturers?
When evaluating construction equipment manufacturers, industry experts look beyond just the machines themselves. Revenue typically serves as the primary ranking factor—it’s the clearest indicator of a company’s market position and customer trust. The 2021 industry rankings revealed an impressive milestone: the top manufacturers collectively generated $232.7 billion in sales, a robust 20.8% increase from the previous year.
But the story doesn’t end with revenue figures. A manufacturer’s product diversity matters tremendously—companies offering everything from mini excavators to massive earthmovers often secure higher rankings than specialists. Global market share tells us how well a manufacturer competes across different regions and economies.
Innovation capability has become increasingly important in rankings, with manufacturers investing heavily in automation, electrification, and connectivity features. The strength of a dealer network—how quickly you can get parts and service—plays a crucial role too. At Kelbe Brothers, we’ve seen how important responsive dealer support is to our Wisconsin contractors.
Perhaps most telling is customer satisfaction, which considers equipment reliability, performance in real-world conditions, and the quality of after-sales support. Publications like the International Construction Yellow Table weigh all these factors when determining which manufacturers truly lead the industry.
How does telematics improve fleet productivity?
The telematics revolution has transformed how contractors manage their equipment fleets, turning what was once guesswork into precision management. These smart systems deliver real-time insights that boost productivity in ways that weren’t possible just a decade ago.
Utilization optimization might be the most immediate benefit. When you can see exactly how many hours each machine actually works versus sitting idle, you can make smarter decisions about which equipment to keep, sell, or redistribute to busier job sites. One of our customers found through telematics that their excavator was spending nearly 40% of its running time idling—an adjustment that saved them thousands in fuel costs.
Preventive maintenance becomes truly preventive with telematics. Rather than waiting for something to break, these systems monitor critical components and alert you to developing issues. Hitachi’s ConSite system exemplifies this approach, providing detailed monthly reports that help extend equipment life and prevent those costly mid-project breakdowns.
Operator performance insights have proven particularly valuable. When the data shows one operator consistently burning more fuel or experiencing more wear than others using the same equipment, targeted training opportunities become obvious.
The security benefits are substantial too—GPS tracking means stolen equipment can often be recovered quickly. Fuel management data helps identify inefficient operation patterns, while jobsite efficiency improves when equipment data integrates with project management systems.
For contractors juggling multiple sites and dozens of machines, these telematics capabilities transform equipment management from reactive to proactive—and that’s a game-changer for profitability.
Should I rent or buy heavy equipment for short-term projects?
This question comes up in nearly every conversation we have with contractors at Kelbe Brothers Equipment, and the answer isn’t always straightforward. While project duration matters, several other factors should influence your decision.
Utilization rate often provides the clearest guidance. As a rule of thumb, if you’ll use the equipment less than 60% of the time, renting typically makes more financial sense. When utilization exceeds that threshold, ownership starts looking more attractive. One of our landscape customers found they were spending more annually renting a compact excavator than the payments would have been to purchase—they’re now happy owners of a Takeuchi mini excavator.
Project specialization matters tremendously. For highly specialized machines needed for specific tasks—like a material handler for a demolition project—renting allows access without the long-term commitment. Meanwhile, equipment you use consistently across most projects might be better owned.
Maintenance capabilities deserve careful consideration. When you own equipment, you either need in-house maintenance resources or a reliable service partner (that’s where we come in at Kelbe Brothers). With rentals, maintenance is typically included in your fee, simplifying your operation.
Cash flow impact varies significantly between renting and buying. Renting preserves capital and provides predictable monthly expenses, while purchasing requires a larger initial investment but builds equity in assets. Many of our customers have found that financing options make ownership more accessible than they initially assumed.
The tax implications can be substantial—we always recommend consulting your financial advisor about potential advantages of renting versus buying in your specific situation.
Most successful contractors we work with at Kelbe Brothers end up with a balanced approach—owning their everyday workhorses while renting specialized or occasionally-needed machines. We’re proud to offer both options, helping Wisconsin contractors develop equipment strategies custom to their unique business needs.
Conclusion
The world of construction equipment manufacturers is constantly changing, shaped by new technologies, environmental concerns, and what contractors need to stay competitive. Throughout this article, we’ve seen how industry leaders have evolved beyond simply making powerful machines – they’re creating intelligent, efficient, and eco-friendly equipment that transforms how we build.
Here at Kelbe Brothers Equipment, we take pride in our partnerships with industry giants like Hitachi, Link-Belt, New Holland, and Takeuchi. These relationships aren’t just business arrangements – they allow us to provide Wisconsin contractors with exceptional equipment backed by our unwavering commitment to outstanding service and support.
Being a fourth-generation, family-owned business with over 75 years of experience in Wisconsin’s construction industry gives us a unique perspective. We’ve walked in your boots. We understand the challenges you face on job sites across the state. That’s why our team goes beyond just selling equipment – we provide knowledgeable guidance to help you select the right machine for your specific needs.
Our parts department doesn’t just stock the basics – we maintain an extensive inventory to minimize your downtime when something goes wrong. And our service technicians? They’re not just mechanics – they receive regular factory training to stay ahead of the curve with the latest technologies and repair techniques.
What truly makes Kelbe Brothers different is our rapid response capability. When your equipment breaks down, every minute costs money. That’s why we offer 24/7 emergency support and quick service response. We know your business can’t wait, so neither do we. Plus, our flexible financing options are designed to work with your business’s unique cash flow requirements, not against them.
Whether you’re looking to purchase a new Hitachi wheel loader, need a Takeuchi excavator for a short-term project, or require service for your existing Link-Belt material handler, our team delivers hassle-free solutions that keep your projects moving forward. With locations in Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, Butler, and De Pere, we provide convenient access to sales, parts, and service throughout Wisconsin.
In today’s competitive construction environment, having the right equipment partner makes all the difference. By combining leading manufacturers’ innovations with our local expertise and responsive support, we help Wisconsin contractors maximize productivity, control costs, and complete projects successfully. That’s not just our business model – it’s our family promise.