Importing Excavators from China
A Complete Range Built for Precision, Power & Every Jobsite Condition

Choosing the right excavator is a major investment.

Whether you’re buying for urban trench work or large-scale bulk excavation, these five tips will help you avoid costly mistakes, ensure operational efficiency, and protect long-term value.

1. Match the Machine to Your Project Scope

Understanding your worksite environment and task requirements is the first—and most important—step. Not every excavator is suitable for every job.

✔ Is your site urban, rural, or off-road?
✔ What’s the required digging depth, bucket capacity, and daily load volume?
✔ Will the machine be used for short-term tasks or continuous daily operation?

🛠 Example: Mini excavators (1–6 tons) are perfect for confined urban areas and light-duty trenching. Medium models (10–25 tons) offer the versatility needed for roadwork and site prep. Large excavators (30+ tons) are best for deep excavation and long-hour, high-load projects.

2. Choose the Right Engine – Fuel Efficiency, Reliability & Compliance

Your engine dictates not only power but also long-term cost, serviceability, and import approval. Choose based on project demands, fuel strategy, and emissions standards in your region.

✔ Yanmar – Quiet, efficient, and commonly used in mini and compact models.
✔ Cummins – High torque, strong load capacity, and proven for medium to large excavators.
✔ Kubota – Balanced performance, low vibration, and easy parts support.

⚠ Be sure the engine meets EPA Tier 4 or EU Stage V standards, especially if you’re importing to regulated markets. Non-compliant engines may be held at customs or incur retrofitting costs.

3. Check Hydraulic Systems & Structural Quality

Hydraulic systems are the heart of excavator performance. Weak pumps or poor steelwork lead to breakdowns, leaks, and high downtime costs.

✔ Look for reputable hydraulic pump and cylinder brands
✔ Confirm specs: breakout force, flow rate, and auxiliary line pressure
✔ Inspect the boom, arm, and undercarriage—reinforcements and welding quality matter

🚫 Avoid low-cost brands that use non-hardened steel or inconsistent welds. These machines often fail under heavy load or in demanding environments.

4. Don’t Compromise on Warranty & Parts Access

Even the best machines need support. A solid warranty and available parts network ensure you’re not stuck when a repair is needed.

✔ Look for at least a 12-month warranty on major systems like engine, hydraulics, and controls
✔ Confirm parts accessibility—are replacements stocked locally or custom-ordered?
✔ Check if the supplier offers remote diagnostics or local service partners

💡 If support is weak, downtime becomes expensive. Only import from suppliers who back their machines with professional post-sale service.

5. Demand Full Quality Checks Before Importing

Before loading into a container, your excavator should be fully tested, inspected, and documented. Skipping this step is the most common cause of import regret.

✔ Hydraulic system test – Ensure smooth arm, boom, and swing operation under pressure
✔ Engine test – Cold-start performance, idle behavior, and noise/vibration levels
✔ Final visual inspection – Check cab fitment, welds, paint condition, hoses, and undercarriage wear

📦 A properly inspected machine protects your investment. At Master Shifu, we coordinate third-party inspections and provide full video/photo documentation before shipment—ensuring every excavator is jobsite-ready on arrival.