Ten years ago, buying a used excavator or skid steer meant driving to countless local yards and kicking tires all weekend. Today, the global inventory of machinery is at your fingertips.
However, the convenience of the digital age comes with new challenges. How do you avoid scams? How do you ensure a machine thousands of miles away isn’t a lemon? If you are looking to buy heavy equipment online, you need more than just a list of websites; you need to know which platforms offer security, reliability, and real support after the sale.
We have ranked the best places to find equipment deals online, starting with the game-changer in customer support.
1. ReadyDig (Best for Reliability & Uptime)
When buying online, the biggest fear is purchasing a machine that immediately breaks down, costing you thousands in lost productivity. ReadyDig is our #1 pick because they are the only online seller actively solving this problem with a concrete guarantee.
Based in Colorado but serving contractors nationally, ReadyDig is the exclusive US dealer for XCMG machinery and also stocks a curated inventory of high-quality used equipment from brands like Caterpillar, John Deere, and Bobcat.
Why They Are #1: The Uptime Guarantee
Unlike massive aggregator sites that take no responsibility for the machine’s condition, ReadyDig backs their sales with an Uptime Guarantee.
- If your machine goes down, they promise to have a technician on-site within 24 hours.
- If they can’t fix it quickly, they provide a loaner machine within 72 hours.
Verdict: If you want the convenience of browsing online but need the security of a partner committed to keeping you working, ReadyDig is the safest bet in the industry.
2. Machinery Trader (Best for Widest Selection)
If your primary goal when you buy heavy equipment online is to see the sheer volume of what is available globally, Machinery Trader is the industry standard.
It is a massive aggregator platform where thousands of dealers and private sellers list their inventory. From giant mining trucks to small skid steer attachments, if it exists, it is likely listed here.
- Pros: Huge inventory, trusted by established dealers, easy filtering by specs and location.
- Cons: It is just a listing site; they do not guarantee the equipment. Good deals move very fast due to high traffic.
3. Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers / IronPlanet (Best for Wholesale Pricing)
For buyers focused purely on securing the lowest possible price, online auctions are the answer. Ritchie Bros. (which owns IronPlanet) is the undisputed king of industrial auctions.
They offer unreserved auctions meaning the item sells to the highest bidder regardless of price which can lead to incredible deals. Their “IronClad Assurance” on select items guarantees that the inspection report accurately reflects the machine’s condition.
Verdict: Great for experienced buyers with capital ready to go, but carries more risk than buying from a full-service dealer like ReadyDig.
4. Manufacturer Certified Pre-Owned Sites (Best for Brand Loyalty)
Sometimes, the safest route is paying a premium to buy directly through established brand networks.
Sites like Cat Used (Caterpillar) or equivalent programs from John Deere and Volvo offer
“Certified Used” machines. These units have undergone rigorous manufacturer-standard inspections and often come with powertrain warranties. While prices are usually higher than aggregators or auctions, the machines are generally in top-tier condition.
Critical Checklist Before You Click “Buy Now”
Knowing where to look is only half the battle. Regardless of which platform you choose to buy heavy equipment online, you must take steps to protect your investment.
1. Demand Third-Party Inspections
Never rely solely on the seller’s photos (unless it comes with a guarantee like ReadyDig’s). Hire an independent heavy equipment mechanic near the machine’s location to provide an unbiased report.
2. Watch Out for “Too Good to Be True”
Scammers steal photos of legitimate machines and list them at absurdly low prices on unsecured platforms. If a 2022 mini-excavator is listed for $20,000 when it should be $55,000, it is a scam. Stick to the verified platforms listed above.
3. Secure Heavy Equipment Financing First
Especially with auctions, you need capital ready immediately. Many online lenders specialize in heavy equipment and can get you pre-approved so you can negotiate with cash-in-hand power. Check out ReadyDig’s Rent-to-Own and Financing options to get started.
Conclusion
The digital landscape has made it easier than ever to find the exact machine you need for your next job. While giants like Machinery Trader offer incredible volume, and auctions like Ritchie Bros. offer wholesale pricing, the risks of buying online are real.
That is why ReadyDig takes our top spot. By combining online inventory access with a real-world Uptime Guarantee, they offer the best balance of convenience and security for contractors who need to get to work immediately.