Choosing a new backhoe starts with determining what size machine you need, what kind of jobs you will be doing routinely, and what kind of budget you have to work with. Backhoes come in a wide variety of sizes and functions, so be sure to carefully consider how you are likely to use the machine in the long run. This means considering how deep you will need to dig, in what conditions you will be digging, where you will be loading moved dirt, and so on. A new backhoe may be suitable for smaller jobs or larger jobs, and there will be a wide range of prices.
Larger backhoes can dig into the ground up to 16 feet or more (4.88 meters), while smaller backhoes may only be able to dig down 8 to 10 feet (2.4 to 3 meters). If you are a professional who owns his or her own company, it may be in your best interest to buy a larger backhoe that can handle a wider range of jobs. If you intend to use the new backhoe for your own small business, farm, or home only, a smaller version may be the best choice to save you money as well as storage space.
Do plenty of research into the different brands of backhoe before you purchase. Brand name backhoes will often have a ready supply of accessories and replacement parts, while off-brands and smaller brands may require you to go through more of an in-depth process to find replacement parts. Be sure to inquire about any warranties or return policies when you purchase the new backhoe as well; some dealers will even go so far as to make an arrangement to ensure you can get replacement parts for a certain time period. Make such arrangements whenever possible to avoid headaches in the future.
Whenever possible, purchase a four wheel drive backhoe that will allow you better traction over rough terrain. Some backhoes even feature four wheel steering for greater versatility; this is a great feature for anyone doing regular jobs, but it will end up costing more money at the time of purchase, and it may require more maintenance than other types of backhoes. Look for a new backhoe that features a quick coupler design that will allow you to swap out attachments quickly and easily; if possible, buy a backhoe that comes with some of these attachments that will make the unit more useful and versatile.