Towable Backhoe For Sale – Portable Digging Power From $1,500
A towable backhoe for sale at Farmers Equipment gives you real digging capability without the cost of a full-size machine. Hitch it to a standard pickup, ATV, or UTV dig to 6–9 ft depth unhitch and move on. Priced from $1,500 with worldwide shipping available.
For farmers, landscapers, and rural property owners who need occasional excavation work without renting or calling a contractor, this is one of the most cost-effective tools you can own. Used units available at reduced prices contact us to confirm current stock.
Need more dig depth? See our mini backhoe at $5,000 or John Deere backhoe from $8,000.
📩 Get in touch — we’ll confirm current availability and quote a delivered price
What Is a Towable Backhoe?
A towable backhoe (also called a pull-behind or tow-behind backhoe) is a self-contained, gasoline-powered excavation machine on wheels with a standard ball hitch. Unlike a tractor backhoe attachment, it doesn’t require a specific host vehicle hook it up to a truck, ATV, or UTV and you’re ready to work.
On-site: lower the stabilizer legs, engage the hydraulic arm, start digging. Most models reach 6–9 ft suited for drainage, septic trenching, utility line installation, fence posts, and tree planting. This page covers standalone towable units. For tractor-mounted backhoe attachments, contact us and we’ll point you in the right direction.
Why a Towable Backhoe Makes Sense
No tractor needed. Your existing pickup or ATV is all you need to transport and deploy it. No special licence, no heavy trailer, no extra vehicle.
Dig 6–9 ft for a fraction of the cost. A compact tractor backhoe runs $5,000–$15,000. A towable backhoe handles the same core digging tasks on most small farm and property jobs at significantly lower cost.
Move between sites in minutes. Most models weigh 850–1,300 lbs light enough to tow with a standard ball hitch and unhitch by hand. Genuine daily advantage if you work across multiple properties or a large farm.
Simple to operate and maintain. Gasoline engine, standard hydraulic fluid, no complex electronics. Most first-time operators are comfortable within an hour. Routine maintenance hydraulic oil check, greasing pivot points, hose inspection is owner-handled without specialist tools.
Typical Specifications
Specs vary by model. Contact us for exact specifications on the models currently in stock. For independent reference see TractorData.com:
| Specification | Typical Range |
|---|---|
| Engine Power | 8–15 HP (gasoline) |
| Max Digging Depth | 6–9 ft (1.8–2.7 m) |
| Max Reach | 8–10.8 ft (2.4–3.3 m) |
| Bucket Width | 10″–12″ standard (8.5″–24″ optional) |
| Hydraulic Flow | 2.7–10.6 GPM |
| Operating Weight | 850–1,300 lbs |
| Tow Hitch | Standard 2″ ball hitch |
| Boom Swing | 60°–130° depending on model |
| Starting Price | From $1,500 |
Towable Backhoe vs Other Machines
| Machine | Dig Depth | Tow Vehicle | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Towable Backhoe | 6–9 ft | Pickup, ATV, UTV | $1,500–$3,500 | Small farms, landscaping, light work |
| Mini Backhoe (tractor-mount) | 7–10 ft | Compact tractor | $2,000–$4,000 | Farms with existing tractor |
| Compact tractor backhoe | 10–14 ft | Self-propelled | $5,000–$15,000 | Mid-size construction & agriculture |
| Full-size backhoe loader | 14–16 ft | Self-propelled | $8,000+ | Heavy farm and construction work |
For work regularly exceeding 9 ft dig depth, see our mini backhoe at $5,000, backhoe loader at $4,800, or John Deere 410 backhoe at $12,000.
What Can You Use a Towable Backhoe For?
- Farming & agriculture — irrigation channels, water lines, fence posts, orchard planting, drainage management; one of the most cost-effective tools a small farm can own
- Landscaping & property work — garden ponds, stump removal, large tree planting, retaining wall footings; compact enough to work close to structures
- Residential construction — septic system trenching, drainage pipe installation, utility lines; reaches the 6–9 ft depths required for most residential applications
- Property maintenance — clearing overgrown ditches, digging electrical conduit, maintaining access roads; ideal for rural owners who need occasional excavation without a contractor
Honest Limitations Before You Buy
- Hard clay or consistent rock will slow digging — a heavier machine is more productive in those conditions
- Max 6–9 ft dig depth — not suited for deep foundations exceeding 8 ft
- Built for intermittent use — not designed for all-day contractor schedules
- 850–1,300 lbs operating weight — verify your vehicle’s tow rating before purchasing
If any of these are a concern for your specific job, contact us and we’ll recommend the right machine.
Used Towable Backhoe For Sale – New & Pre-Owned Options
Looking for a cheap towable backhoe or the best towable backhoe for your budget? We carry both new units and used towable backhoes in verified working condition used stock varies, so ask us what’s currently available. Pricing depends on hours and condition; used units typically come in well below new retail.
- New and used towable backhoes in stock — priced to reflect actual condition
- All machines inspected and tested before listing
- We ship globally — export paperwork handled end-to-end
- Transparent pricing — what you see is what you pay
Best Towable Backhoe for Small Farm – Buying Guide
For most small farm buyers the right towable backhoe comes down to three things: dig depth, engine size, and ground conditions.
- Dig depth — if your primary jobs are fence posts, water lines, and drainage, 6–7 ft is enough. For septic systems or deeper drainage, look for a model reaching 8–9 ft.
- Engine size — 8–10 HP handles soft to moderate soils. For clay-heavy ground, 12–15 HP gives noticeably better digging speed and less strain on the machine.
- Soil conditions — sandy, loamy, or soft ground suits any towable model. Consistent hard clay or rocky ground is where towable backhoes reach their limit a compact backhoe loader handles those conditions more reliably.
For most homesteads and small farms under 100 acres with moderate soil conditions, an 8–12 HP towable backhoe in the $1,500–$3,000 range covers the majority of digging tasks without the cost or complexity of a larger machine.
Towable Backhoe Buying Advice: Who Should Buy One?
A towable backhoe is ideal for homeowners, farmers, and landscapers who need affordable digging power for fence posts, drainage, utility trenches, and tree planting. It’s easy to transport with a pickup, ATV, or UTV and costs far less than a full-size backhoe.
However, if you regularly work in rocky soil, need to dig deeper than 9 feet, or require all-day commercial performance, a mini excavator or backhoe loader may be a better choice.
Best Towable Backhoe Brands
Many buyers compare brands such as DR Power, NorTrac, Jansen USA, Go-For-Digger, and Central Machinery when shopping for a towable backhoe. The right choice usually comes down to your budget, digging depth requirements, and the type of ground you’ll be working in.
For fence posts, drainage work, and general property maintenance, an 8–10 HP model is often enough. If you’re digging in heavier soil or plan to use the machine more frequently, a 13–15 HP model will generally provide better performance.
Frequently Asked Questions: Towable Backhoe For Sale
What is the best towable backhoe?
For most property owners, the best towable backhoe balances digging depth, hydraulic power, reliability, and price. Models with 8–15 HP engines and 6–9 ft digging depth are suitable for drainage, fence installation, utility trenching, and landscaping. The best choice depends on your soil conditions, budget, and how frequently you plan to use the machine. see our mini backhoe at $5,000 or the backhoe loader at $4,800.
Are 3-point backhoes any good?
Yes, a 3-point backhoe can be a good option if you already own a compatible tractor. They generally provide more digging force than a towable backhoe but require a tractor with sufficient horsepower and hydraulic capacity. For buyers without a tractor, a towable backhoe is usually the more affordable and practical solution.
What are the common problems with backhoes?
The most common backhoe problems include hydraulic leaks, worn pivot pins, damaged hoses, cylinder seal wear, and stabilizer issues. Regular maintenance, greasing, and hydraulic inspections can prevent most of these problems and extend machine life.
Who makes the most reliable backhoe?
Some of the most respected backhoe manufacturers include Caterpillar, JCB, John Deere, and Case Construction Equipment. These brands have decades of experience and strong parts availability worldwide.
What are the best small backhoe brands?
Popular small backhoe brands include Caterpillar, JCB, John Deere, Case, Kubota, and New Holland. Buyers should compare digging depth, hydraulic performance, parts availability, and operating costs before choosing a model.
What is the cheapest backhoe?
The cheapest backhoes are often used towable units and entry-level compact machines. Prices can start around $1,500 for basic towable models, while used compact backhoe loaders may start around $5,000 depending on condition and location.
What size truck can pull a towable backhoe?
Most towable backhoes weigh between 850 and 1,300 lbs. A pickup truck, SUV, or utility vehicle with a towing capacity of at least 1,500–2,000 lbs is generally sufficient. Always verify the machine’s actual weight and your vehicle’s tow rating.
What are small backhoes called?
Small backhoes are commonly referred to as mini backhoes, compact backhoes, towable backhoes, or compact backhoe loaders. The terminology varies depending on machine design and intended use.
What are the disadvantages of using a mini backhoe?
Mini backhoes are easier to transport and less expensive than larger machines, but they typically have lower digging force, reduced lifting capacity, and shallower digging depths. They may also struggle in rocky or heavily compacted soils.
How much does a mini backhoe cost?
Mini backhoes typically cost between $1,500 and $5,000 depending on size, condition, attachments, and digging capability. Towable models are generally the most affordable, while compact tractor backhoes and mini excavators command higher prices.
What size is a mini backhoe?
Most mini backhoes provide digging depths of approximately 6–10 ft and are designed for residential construction, landscaping, farming, and property maintenance projects.
What is the alternative to a backhoe?
Alternatives include mini excavators, trenchers, skid steer backhoe attachments, compact excavators, and tractor-mounted backhoes. The best choice depends on the depth, soil conditions, and frequency of use.
Ready to Buy a Towable Backhoe?
From $1,500. New and used units available. Worldwide shipping.
Alexis Morgan –
Got mine delivered last week. Everything was straightforward and it’s been running fine since.
Kevin –
Very impressed with the performance. I use it mainly for farm maintenance and digging drainage lines. Compact size makes it easy to move around tight areas. So far no issues at all.
Oliver F –
I’ve had mine delivered for over a month now and have been using it regularly so far, everything has been great and nothing to worry about.
The support from start to finish was excellent, and the whole process went smoothly. Highly recommend