What size excavator is best for trenching?

The best excavator size for trenching depends on trench width, depth, and access constraints. For standard residential service trenches — plumbing, electrical, NBN, irrigation — the 0.8T or 1T mini excavator with a narrow trenching bucket (200–300mm) is the most efficient choice. These machines fit through residential gates, cause minimal surface disruption, and dig precise trenches. For deeper trenches (below 1,500mm) or larger diameter pipes requiring wider trenches, the 1.7T excavator provides more digging depth (2,400mm maximum) and greater digging force. For civil drainage works or larger stormwater systems, the 3.5T excavator is more appropriate. BuildHire's mini excavators can be fitted with narrow trenching buckets (200–300mm) for cable and conduit work, or standard buckets (300–600mm) for plumbing and drainage.