Literally, that last 5 years with mini-excavators have been like compact tractors over the last two decades. Seems EVERY is buying one and trying to put it to work (not homeowner stuff).
Cant help but think the generous housing market over the last decade have spoiled too many people and that when the market slows down....these guys making $1000/month payments with now work are gonna be struggling.
I am a member of a few FB groups talking about mini-ex work and what not. I am really surprised by the number of people that have smaller 2.7-3.5 class machines and constantly brag that their day rate is $2500 and they dont move equipment for less than that period.
By my math thats ~$300/hr for a freaking mini.
OR when people ask about trenching....one guy questioned how much to do 150' waterline to a barn at 3' deep, and he said he bid it at $1500 figuring half a day. So may people told him he was nuts at that $3500-$4000 is what they would charge
I dont know where these customers are.....but in my area....$100-$125/hr is the going rate for running a mini. Heck, guys running 15 ton machines digging basements and ponds are only in the $150-$200/hr range