There’s no single “best” way to buy a Bobcat. Your situation dictates the right approach. I’ve managed equipment budgets for a mid-size contracting company (about $180K annually in heavy machinery spending over 6 years), and I’ve learned that the right answer depends on whether you’re a first-time buyer, a fleet manager, or just need a machine for a single job.
Let’s break it down by the three most common scenarios I’ve seen.
Scenario A: The First-Time Buyer
You’ve never owned a skid steer or mini excavator. You’re not sure what attachments you’ll need, and you’re probably comparing the Bobcat E32 to a Kubota KX040. The big risk here isn’t overpaying — it’s buying the wrong machine.
The Right Move
Don’t start with price. Start with the dealer. A good Bobcat dealer (find one using the dealer locator) will walk you through your most common tasks and recommend a machine + attachment package. That’s worth more than saving $500 on the base price.
“In my first year, I made the classic spec error: assumed a standard machine would fit our needs. Cost me a $1,200 redo in the wrong bucket size.”
What to Look For
- Local support. If your dealer is 2 hours away, you’ll lose money on transport for every service visit.
- Rental options. Some dealers let you rent a machine before you buy. That’s a huge advantage.
- Package deals. A machine + bucket + pallet forks usually saves 10-15% vs buying separately.
What to Expect on Price
A new Bobcat E32 mini excavator (the most popular model) usually quotes in the $35,000–$45,000 range depending on dealer, region, and attachments. Used units (2019-2022) with under 1,000 hours run $22,000–$32,000. (Based on dealer listings and auction results, Q1 2025.)
But here’s the thing: the list price is rarely the final price. I’ve learned to ask “what’s NOT included” before “what’s the price.” The dealer who lists all fees upfront — even if the total looks higher — usually costs less in the end.
People assume the lowest quote means the dealer is more efficient. What they don’t see is which costs are being hidden or deferred. A $38,000 quote might not include delivery, pre-delivery inspection, or a basic attachment package. That $43,000 quote probably does.
Scenario B: The Fleet Manager
You already have 5+ machines. You’re looking to add a Bobcat or replace an aging unit. Your risk isn’t buying the wrong machine — it’s inconsistent parts support and downtime costs.
The Right Move
Focus on standardization. If your fleet is mostly Kubota, adding a Bobcat means stocking two sets of filters, hydraulic fluids, and undercarriage parts. That’s a hidden cost many buyers miss.
“I knew I should have standardized on one brand, but thought ‘what are the odds? We’ll just keep an extra set of filters.’ Well, that was the year we had two machines down simultaneously with different maintenance schedules.”
What to Look For
- Parts availability metrics. Ask the dealer: what’s your fill rate on Bobcat parts? 95% or higher is industry standard. (Reference: Equipment Industry Dealer Standards)
- Consumables cost. Bobcat hydraulic filters run about $35–$55 each. Kubota equivalent: $28–$45. That adds up over 5 machines changing filters every 200 hours.
- Attachment compatibility. Bobcat’s B-Tech attachment system is versatile, but if you have a fleet of Takeuchi or Volvo units, you’ll need adapters. That’s $300–$800 per adapter.
From the outside, it looks like you just need a reliable machine. The reality is that what makes a machine “reliable” often depends on how fast your dealer can get you a replacement solenoid — not how well the engine runs.
Scenario C: The Short-Term User
You need a Bobcat for a specific project — maybe a 3-month excavation. Buying a new machine doesn’t make sense, and renting seems expensive. But there’s a third option.
The Right Move
Consider rent-to-own or used with a buyback agreement. Many Bobcat dealers offer a program where you pay a monthly fee for 6–12 months, and if you decide to keep the machine, the payments apply to the purchase. If not, you return it. This avoids a massive upfront expense while covering your project.
It’s tempting to think you can just rent from a local equipment yard. But the rental rate for an S650 skid steer is ~$1,200–$1,800 per week. A 12-week project costs $14,000–$21,000 — and you’re still returning the machine. That’s money with zero equity.
What to Look For
- Contract terms. Is there a penalty for early return? What’s the condition requirement for the machine at return?
- Insurance. Most rent-to-own agreements require you to carry comprehensive insurance on the equipment. Factor that in.
- Maintenance included. Some dealer programs include basic service for the rental period. That’s a big plus.
I can only speak to domestic operations. If you’re dealing with international logistics or cross-border projects, there are probably factors I’m not aware of.
How to Figure Out Which Scenario You’re In
Ask yourself these three questions:
- How long do I plan to own this machine? Less than 1 year? Go Scenario C. 3+ years? Scenario A or B.
- How many machines do I already own? 3 or fewer? You’re probably Scenario A (even if you’re experienced). 4+? You’re Scenario B.
- Can I afford to be wrong? If you need this machine to work reliably for a critical project, prioritize dealer support over price. That’s always the safer bet.
“The vendor who lists all fees upfront — even if the total looks higher — usually costs less in the end. That’s a lesson I learned after getting burned on two ‘budget’ quotes.”
Bottom line: Buy the dealer relationship first, the machine second. The Bobcat name is backed by a strong network, but not all dealers are equal. Use the dealer locator, call 3 local options, ask about parts fill rates and rental programs, then decide based on total cost — not just the ticket price.
Price data based on public dealer listings and auction results, Q1 2025. Prices vary by region, machine condition, and attachment configuration.
Note: This guide focuses on Bobcat equipment purchasing. If you’re looking for forklift certification (OSHA compliance training) or information on unrelated products like the Elvie Pump, those are separate topics that require their own due diligence.
