Step 1: Understand What You Are Buying and Who You Are Buying From
Before you inquire about any used CAT excavator, clarify two things: the machine category and the seller's status. Used CAT excavators come in size classes from mini under 10 tonnes up to large earthmoving units. A mini class machine like the CAT 305.5, 306E2, or 308E2 is built for small digs, utility work, and tight-access sites. Larger models handle bulk excavation and heavy lifting.
Anhui Gangya Construction Machinery Co., Ltd. operates as an independent exporter under the brand CAT Excavator Export. We are not affiliated with Caterpillar Inc. or any authorized dealer network. This matters because you are buying from a Chinese exporter, not from a factory-backed channel. Your protection comes from inspection reports, start-up videos, and clear FOB pricing, not from a manufacturer warranty. We state the year and hour meter reading as a reference, not as proof of use. Every listing shows the actual unit you will receive.
Step 2: Verify Machine Details and Request Evidence
When you find a listing, ask for three things: photos, a start-up video, and an inspection report. These show the actual machine, not a stock image. For example, our 2022 CAT 306E2 mini excavator has an 800 hour meter reading and an as inspected condition rating. The price is 16,000 USD FOB for that specific unit. A 2022 CAT 305.5 / 305.5E2 also has 800 hours and is priced at 16,000 USD FOB. A 2022 CAT 308E2 is listed at 21,000 USD FOB. Higher-hour or older units may cost less, but condition varies.
Do not rely on the hour meter alone. The year and hours are given as a reference, not as proof of use. Instead, review the inspection report for hydraulic leaks, undercarriage wear, engine blow-by, and structural cracks. Ask for a cold-start video to see how the machine behaves before it warms up. If a seller cannot provide these, move on. We include them for every in-stock unit, including the 2022 CAT 306E2 and the 2022 CAT 305.5 / 305.5E2.
Step 3: Confirm the FOB Price and What It Includes
FOB means Free On Board at the Chinese port. The price covers the machine and delivery to the port, but not ocean freight, insurance, or import duties. Our listings show a single FOB price per unit. The 2022 CAT 306E2 is 16,000 USD FOB. The 2022 CAT 305.5 / 305.5E2 is also 16,000 USD FOB. The 2022 CAT 308E2 is 21,000 USD FOB. These are specific prices for specific units, not starting ranges.
Ask what is excluded. Typically, you will pay for ocean freight, marine insurance, and destination charges. Some countries also charge import duty. For example, the CAT 306E2 listing shows a 5% duty for Nigeria. That duty is not included in the FOB price. Always request a written quote that separates machine cost from logistics. If a seller gives you a single lump sum without breakdown, ask for details. Transparency here prevents surprises at the port.
Step 4: Check Import Regulations and HS Codes
Used excavators are classified under HS code 8429.52 for machines with a 360-degree revolving superstructure. This code applies to the CAT 305.5, 306E2, and 308E2 listings. Your country's customs authority will use this code to calculate duty and taxes. Check your local import rules before you commit. Some countries restrict used machinery imports based on age, emission standards, or inspection requirements.
For Nigeria, the CAT 306E2 listing shows a 5% duty. Other countries may have different rates. You may need a pre-shipment inspection certificate or an import license. The exporter can provide commercial invoices, packing lists, and certificates of origin. We follow Chinese customs export regulations for every shipment. However, you are responsible for confirming that the machine meets your country's import rules. If you are unsure, consult a customs broker in your destination country before paying a deposit.
Step 5: Arrange Inspection, Payment, and Shipping
Once you agree on a machine and price, the process moves to inspection, payment, and shipping. For inspection, you can rely on the start-up video and inspection report we provide. If you want a third-party inspection, you can hire a local agent in China. That cost is separate. For payment, we typically use a deposit to reserve the unit and the balance before shipment. The deposit amount and payment method are agreed in the sales contract.
For shipping, we handle delivery to the port and loading. You or your freight forwarder handle ocean freight and insurance. Shipping time depends on the route. For example, Nigeria is a common destination for our mini excavators. We have shipped CAT 305.5, 306E2, and 308E2 units to Nigeria. The 2022 CAT 306E2 is in stock and ready for loading. Once loaded, we provide the bill of lading and other documents you need for customs clearance.
Step 6: Inspect on Arrival and Plan for Maintenance
When the machine arrives, inspect it before you sign off with the carrier. Check for shipping damage, missing parts, and fluid leaks. Compare the machine to the photos and inspection report. If something is wrong, document it immediately and contact your freight forwarder and the exporter. We stand behind the condition rating, but shipping damage is a separate issue handled by insurance.
After arrival, plan for maintenance. Used excavators need fresh filters, fluids, and a thorough greasing. Check the undercarriage, hydraulic hoses, and bucket teeth. For a mini excavator like the CAT 306E2, schedule service based on the hour meter and your workload. Keep records of all maintenance. This helps with resale value and prevents downtime. If you need parts, source them from aftermarket suppliers or independent dealers. We can provide guidance on common wear items but do not supply parts directly.
What to Do Next
Review your project needs and budget. Decide on a size class: mini under 10 tonnes for utility work, or larger for bulk excavation. Then browse our in-stock listings. Start with the 2022 CAT 306E2 at 16,000 USD FOB or the 2022 CAT 305.5 / 305.5E2 at 16,000 USD FOB. If you need a slightly larger mini, consider the 2022 CAT 308E2 at 21,000 USD FOB. Request photos, a start-up video, and the inspection report for any unit. Confirm the FOB price and what it excludes. Check your country's import duty and HS code requirements. When you are ready, contact us to reserve the machine and arrange shipping. We will provide the documents you need for customs. Act quickly because each unit is a single listing and stock changes. For more details, visit our website and review the specific machine pages. If you have questions, ask before you pay a deposit. We prefer to answer everything upfront so you can buy with confidence.