As a construction professional or equipment operator, you must know the specifications of heavy machinery to work safely. Backhoe is one of the most common machines you will see on building sites. But how much does a backhoe weigh?
In this guide, we have explained exact weight of different types of backhoe and how it will affect the performance. So, you can choose the perfect model and weight according to your job requirements.
Is Weight of Backhoe Same?
Backhoe is a very big and strong machine and its weight does not always weigh the same. Because it changes according to machine size, model, engine size and manufacture variances.
Also, attachments (buckets or hammers) and wheel/track system impact backhoe over all weight. That means every backhoe is built in a different way. So we can say that when you see a backhoe, you cannot guess one weight for all.
Backhoe Size Chart and Weight
Below table will show you the different size and weight of the backhoe models. This way,, you can easily compare them and select the one that well fits your work.
| Size of Backhoe | Weight in Pounds | Weight in KG | Weight in Tons | Engine Power | Dig Depth |
| Small Backhoe | 7000 – 10000 lbs | 3175 to 4535 kg | 3 to 5 tons | 50 to 90 HP | 5 – 6 feet |
| Medium Backhoe | 14000 to 18000 lbs | 6350 – 8165 kg | 7 – 9 tons | 75 – 100 HP | 14 to 16 feet |
| Large Backhoe | 20000 to 40000 lbs | 9070 – 18140 kg | 10 to 20 tons | 100 to 175+ HP | 16 – 18 feet or over 20 ft |
Average Weight of a Backhoe Loader/Backhoe Weight Class
The general weight of a backhoe can be anywhere in the range of 7,000 pounds to 40,000 pounds. However, its weight can vary based on the category your backhoe belongs to. Below are some examples.
Mini Backhoe – Small Backhoe Weight
The mini backhoe is the smallest type of backhoe you can use. Generally, it weighs between 7,000 and 10,000 pounds. That’s why you can use this machine only for light jobs such as digging small holes and yard fixing.
Due to its lower weight, it also works well in tight locations. Because it belongs to a small group, you can move it more easily from one place to another.
Standard Backhoes (Medium Backhoe)
With a medium backhoe, you will get the right combination of power and versatility. Most of these machines weigh 14,000 to 18,000 pounds. For example: the case 580 backhoe weight is over 13,000 pounds. This means standard backhoes are much heavier than mini backhoes. But they are not as heavy as the large ones.
Because of their weight, they can handle your hard jobs. You can dig deeper and can move heavier dirt/rocks. As its balanced weight makes it strong and stable, you will see these backhoes on building sites.
Heavy Duty Backhoe
It is the largest and strongest type of backhoe equipment. You will find their weight in the range of 20,000 to 40,000 pounds. Hence, you can dig very deep, lift big loads and work on large projects like road (e.g freeway) building/mining.
Further, you will never see them in small jobs because their size and weight make them too big for narrow areas. Heavy-duty backhoes are built for your hardest and heaviest work.
Backhoe weight in Tons
You can also measure the weight of the backhoe in pounds. One ton equals 2,000 pounds. In such a way, a small backhoe is approximately 3 tons heavy. The weight of a medium size backhoe can be 7 tons or more. In addition, large backhoes can be in the range of 10 tons to 20 tons.
Backhoe Weight KG
In many countries, people also use kilograms (metric system) to know a backhoe’s weight. The list below will show you the backhoe weight in kg.
- Small Backhoe: 3175 – 4535 kilograms
- Medium Backhoe: 6350 to 8165 kg
- Large Backhoe: 9,070 – 18,140 kg
Buckets and Attachment Weights
It’s important for you to keep in mind that the load of a backhoe machine does not only depend on its size or model. Because the tools you add with it will also increase the whole equipment weight.
Backhoe Bucket Weight
How much does a backhoe bucket weigh? Generally, you will find a bucket on every backhoe. They are of different sizes. It can be as light as 50 kg and may be as heavy as 500 kg. The bucket weight really impacts backhoe performance.
With a heavy bucket, you can carry more load but it also slows down your machine. Hence, fuel consumption will be more. While. It will be easy for you to handle a light bucket but it cannot hold as much dirt or rock.
Backhoe Drill Attachment
You can fix drills with a backhoe to drill holes into the ground, rocks & concrete. Drill also adds weight to the backhoe. It can be anywhere in the range of 600 kg to 1300+ kg. This extra weight will make the machine more heavy and strong for digging.
Backhoe Hammer Attachment
This attachment is heavy and it can weigh from 50 kg to 2500 kg. Mostly, it depends on the size of the hammer. Due to its heavy weight, you can use it to break hard materials such as concrete, rocks for roads. But, it can also slow your machine and increase fuel use too.
Backhoe weight capacity
How much weight can a backhoe lift? Backhoe loader capacity means the maximum weight a machine can lift or move safely. This number is very important. Because it tells you the limit of what your backhoe can handle. For example: a small backhoe can lift approx. 3500 lbs (1600 kg) or more.
With a standard backhoe, you can handle weight nearly 5500 to 13000 pounds. On the other hand, the largest backhoes can lift more than 13000 lbs. Always remember that, capacity limit can be vary based on backhoe model, its working range as well as lifting height.
How to Determine the Weight of a Backhoe?
You can find out the weight of a backhoe with multiple methods. One of the easiest ways is to check the machine manual, manufacturer website or plate on the machine. Furthermore, you can ask the company or a trained technician for a more accurate assessment.
Additionally, you can also take your backhoe to the weighing station. The large weighing scale will show you the exact weight of the whole backhoe. Always remember to count the weight of extra tools and fuel.
Biggest Backhoe in the World
The largest backhoe you can find is JCB 4CX-15 Super. It is big and can dig deeper due to its high power. Engineers design this machine for your heavy construction work with more precision. It has operating weight about 19577 lbs and can lift loads of 3500 kg or more. Plus, it works with a powerful engine system which is 109 hp.
Conclusion
So, we can say that backhoe weight can change a lot. Because it’s more dependent on machine size, class & extensions. According to our experience, if you need a small, medium or heavy-duty backhoe, weight will definitely affect its movement and job performance.
Now you know the correct weight numbers, you can choose the right machine with confidence. Our company also manufactures and supplies premium backhoes. So, you can contact us for quick quotes.
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