What a 20t excavator really costs to run per hour — fuel, wear and total.
Purchase price is only half the story; running cost decides profit. Here is a realistic breakdown for a 20-tonne excavator.
| Item | Basis | Cost/hr |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel | ~15–25 L/hr | $15 – $28/hr |
| Undercarriage/wear | amortised | $8 – $15/hr |
| Maintenance | service+parts | $6 – $12/hr |
Why buyers choose us
- Fuel is the biggest cost
- Undercarriage wear adds up
- Service on schedule
- ~$30–55/hr total for 20t
Related pages
Frequently asked questions
How much does an excavator cost per hour to run?
A 20t excavator typically costs about $30–$55 per hour in fuel, wear and maintenance combined.
What is the biggest running cost?
Fuel, followed by undercarriage wear on tracked machines.




