Mini Digger Sizes & Hire
From a 70cm micro that slips through a garden gate to an 8-tonne machine for serious commercial groundwork, there's a size for every job. Compare every digger's dig depth and access width below, and as a result you can match the smallest machine to the work, then hire with no deposit and fast UK-wide delivery.
Digger size comparison
Tap any row to see full specs, typical jobs and pricing for that machine. Every figure below is genuine, because we want you matched to the smallest machine that does the job. For example, a tight courtyard usually needs a micro, whereas a commercial trench wants the reach of a 5 or 8 tonne.
| Size | Weight | Dig depth | Transport width | Best for | Guide price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Micro (0.8t) | 0.8 tonne | up to ~1.7 m | ~70 cm (fits standard gates) | Tight access gardens, Through standard gateways | £75/day |
| 1.5t Mini | 1.5 tonne | up to ~2.3 m | ~98 cm (expandable tracks) | Garden landscaping, Drainage & footings | £85/day |
| 3t Midi | 3 tonne | up to ~2.9 m | ~1.55 m | Extensions & foundations, Larger landscaping | £110/day |
| 5t | 5 tonne | up to ~3.8 m | ~1.96 m | Commercial groundwork, Deep drainage | £140/day |
| 8t | 8 tonne | up to ~4.5 m | ~2.3 m | Larger commercial sites, Deep foundations | £180/day |
As a rule, the smaller machines trade dig depth for access, while the bigger ones do the opposite. A micro slips through a 70cm gate but stays shallow, whereas the 8 tonne reaches roughly 4.5m yet needs an open site. The 1.5 tonne sits in the middle and, as a result, suits the largest share of garden and light-trade jobs.
Every hire includes one standard digging bucket, delivery and collection, and a quick handover on controls and safe use. Furthermore, we can add a grading bucket, breaker or auger if your job needs one, and arrange an operator on the heavier machines. If you are unsure, send your tightest access measurement and we will confirm the right size before anything leaves the yard.
Micro (0.8t)
The smallest digger we hire, at around 70 cm wide. As a result, it fits through most standard gates and side passages, making it the go-to for back gardens and restricted access.
1.5t Mini
The most popular all-rounder. Expandable tracks squeeze through tight spots then widen for stability; consequently, it suits the majority of domestic and light-trade jobs.
3t Midi
Steps up the digging power for extensions, deeper footings and bigger landscaping. However, it stays compact enough for most domestic sites with reasonable access.
5t
A capable midi excavator for commercial groundwork and deeper digs where a mini won't reach. For example, deep drainage runs and strip foundations are well within its range.
8t
Our largest hire option for serious commercial excavation and deep digs. In particular, it handles deep foundations and bulk muck-shifting on bigger sites.
How to choose the right digger size
Two questions decide it almost every time: how tight is your access, and how deep do you need to dig? Answer those and, as a result, the right machine usually picks itself.
1. Check your access
Measure the narrowest gate, alley or doorway the machine must pass. Under ~70cm means a micro digger; ~1m opens up the 1.5t mini; over 1.5m and the midi machines are on the table.
2. Match the dig depth
Garden beds and shallow trenches suit a micro or 1.5t. Footings and drainage from 2m+ want a 3t. Deep foundations and commercial drainage need the 5t or 8t reach.
3. Still unsure? Ask us
Send your job, postcode and tightest measurement on the form and we'll recommend the right machine. Moreover, if you'd rather not drive it, we offer operated hire with an experienced operator.
Hiring a mini digger, sorted in 3 steps
Tell us the job
Send your postcode, the job and rough dates using the quote form. For example, tell us the access width and how long you need the machine, so we can match the right size.
Get a price
We come back fast with availability and a transparent, no-deposit price. Moreover, there is no obligation to book.
Delivered to you
Your digger is then delivered and collected on your chosen dates. As a result, you avoid trailers, towing and licence headaches.
Get a quote for the right size
Tell us the job, your postcode and your tightest access measurement — we'll recommend the machine and price it with no deposit.
Mini digger size FAQs
What size mini digger do I need?
How do I measure my access?
What's the difference between a micro, mini and midi digger?
Will a bigger digger damage my lawn?
Found your size?
Send your job and postcode for a fast, no-deposit quote on any machine.