Got an old digger sitting around gathering dust? You’re not alone. Finding a good place to sell my old digger can feel like a real headache. Between dodgy online listings, time-wasters, and trying to figure out what your excavator is actually worth, the whole process can be pretty overwhelming.
That’s where platforms like Cash Your Vans come in. While the name might suggest they only deal with vans, they actually specialise in buying all sorts of vehicles and equipment, including construction machinery. With their straightforward approach, you can turn your unused digger into cash without the usual stress and waiting around.
Let’s look at how you can get the best price for your digger, what you need to know before selling, and why using a reliable buyer might be your best bet for a quick sale.
What You Need to Know Before You Sell Your Old Digger
Importance of knowing your Digger’s Value
Before putting your digger up for sale, you need to know what it’s actually worth. Many sellers make the mistake of either pricing too high (and never getting calls) or too low (leaving money on the table).
Using professional digger valuation services gives you a clear idea of your machine’s market value. These valuations take into account:
- The make and model
- Age and condition
- Operating hours
- Any special attachments or features
- Recent maintenance and repairs
- Current market demand
A proper valuation helps you set realistic expectations and gives you confidence when negotiating. Most professional buyers like Cash Your Vans will provide a free, no-obligation valuation, giving you a solid starting point even if you decide to sell elsewhere.
According to the UK used construction equipment market report, well-maintained diggers with proper documentation often command higher prices, which makes getting an accurate valuation even more important.
Preparing Your Digger for Sale
Getting your digger ready for sale doesn’t just mean giving it a quick wash. Proper preparation can add hundreds or even thousands to your final selling price.
Here’s what to focus on:
- Clean it thoroughly – power wash the undercarriage and cab
- Fix minor issues – replace worn hydraulic hoses, repair broken lights
- Gather maintenance records – proof of regular servicing adds value
- Check fluid levels and top up if needed
- Test all functions to make sure everything works properly
Most importantly, be completely honest about your digger’s condition. Under the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) guidance on selling second-hand machinery, you’re required to ensure any equipment you sell is safe for use. Hiding problems can lead to legal issues down the line.
Being upfront about the operating hours, any accident history, and maintenance schedule builds trust with buyers and helps avoid complaints after the sale.
Benefits of Selling Used Excavators in the UK with Cash Your Vans
Simple and Quick Procedure
When you want to sell my old digger fast, the process should be straightforward. Cash Your Vans makes it just that:
- Enter your digger’s details online or over the phone
- Receive a same-day quote based on current market values
- If you accept, they’ll arrange collection at a time that works for you
- Get paid on the same day they collect your digger
No need for endless viewings or haggling with strangers. The whole process typically takes just 2-3 days from first contact to money in your bank. This approach saves you from dealing with the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER) 1998 compliance worries that can come with private sales.
Competitive Offers and Immediate Payment
One of the biggest advantages of using a professional buying service is quick cash for used diggers. Unlike private sales where buyers might try to bargain you down at the last minute or delay payment, companies like Cash Your Vans provide:
- Fair market-based valuations
- No last-minute price reductions
- Secure payment methods (usually bank transfer)
- No waiting for cheques to clear or buyers to arrange finance
They can often pay more than dealers offering trade-ins because they’re buying directly for their network rather than having to account for retail markup.
Guide to Selling Second-Hand Diggers Online in the UK
How to Sell a Digger Fast in a Marketplace for Used Diggers
If you decide to go the private sale route and list your digger for sale UK online, here’s how to create a listing that gets results:
First, choose the right platform. Websites specialising in construction equipment tend to attract more serious buyers than general marketplaces. Look for a marketplace for used diggers like Mascus, PlantTrader, or even eBay’s heavy machinery section.
When creating your listing:
- Take at least 15-20 clear photos from multiple angles
- Include close-ups of the cab, tracks/wheels, and hydraulic systems
- Be specific about make, model, year, and hours
- Mention any attachments included in the sale
- List recent repairs or replacements
- Be honest about any issues or damage
- Set a realistic price based on your valuation
- Include your contact details and preferred contact method
Remember that under the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER) 1998, you need to ensure your lifting equipment meets safety standards, so mention any relevant test certificates or inspections in your listing.
Trade-In and Direct Buyer Options
When looking at digger trade-in options, you’ve got a few routes to consider:
Trade-ins with dealers can be convenient if you’re buying new equipment. However, you’ll typically get less than market value, as dealers need to make a profit when they resell. The upside is simplicity – everything happens in one transaction.
Selling to direct buyers like Cash Your Vans can offer several advantages:
- Often higher prices than trade-ins
- No need to purchase something new
- Faster completion than private sales
- They handle all paperwork and collection
According to Tips for buying and selling used construction equipment, direct buyers are becoming increasingly popular as they remove much of the hassle from the process while still offering competitive prices.
If you go with a direct buyer, check they’re compliant with the Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations 2008 to ensure you’re dealing with a legitimate business.
Conclusion
Selling your old digger doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Whether you choose to sell my construction equipment through a private listing, trade it in, or use a direct buying service, knowing your digger’s value and preparing it properly will help you get the best price.
For most sellers, the speed and convenience of using a professional buyer like Cash Your Vans makes it the most attractive option. With same-day quotes, quick collection, and immediate payment, you can turn your unused digger into cash without the usual headaches.
Why not get a free, no-obligation quote today? Simply submit your digger details to Cash Your Vans for a same-day valuation. Their team understands the construction equipment market and can offer you a fair price based on your digger’s condition and current demand.
Ready to get top cash for your digger with minimum fuss? Contact Cash Your Vans now and find out what your old excavator is really worth – you might be pleasantly surprised!