Ordering a Mini Excavator 2.5T from China via Alibaba - Entire Purchase Process and import to the US

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  • Опубліковано 4 жов 2024
  • I purchased a mini excavator, 2.5 Tons, on Alibaba. It is model SD25B from Shandong Davoo Machinery. This video describes the ordering process, import taxes, US handling charges, and getting ready for pick-up.
    Check out the unboxing video here: • Collecting my Alibaba ...
    Our Amazon Affiliate Store: tinyurl.com/3b...
    shorturl.at/egzJK - SD25B
    shorturl.at/jxCJ1 - Shandong Davoo Machinery
    #alibaba #miniexcavator #passivehouse #ownerbuilder

КОМЕНТАРІ • 436

  • @einarmikkelsenPNW
    @einarmikkelsenPNW  Рік тому +4

    Unboxing of the same excavator - ua-cam.com/video/5MI_PoRJMeg/v-deo.html

    • @eastatlantalandscapellc6053
      @eastatlantalandscapellc6053 3 дні тому +1

      Sonits been a year roughly. How has the excavator held up buddy??

    • @eastatlantalandscapellc6053
      @eastatlantalandscapellc6053 3 дні тому +1

      Also can you tell me the exact manusfaftor you.used and what attachments do you like best

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  3 дні тому

      @@eastatlantalandscapellc6053 it has been great. I have about 180 hour on it and no big issues. There is a follow-up video that is one of my last videos. I don't have the exact manufacturer here now but it is spelled out in the video you are commenting on.

  • @davidmays2161
    @davidmays2161 Рік тому +24

    Thanks for sharing your experience and hidden costs. Looking forward to seeing video of your machine.

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  Рік тому

      Good news! The follow-up video is here :)
      ua-cam.com/video/5MI_PoRJMeg/v-deo.html

  • @Leo-fk9ch
    @Leo-fk9ch Рік тому +99

    I own a 32 piece heavy equipment company, machines that range from 2T to 45T excavators, dozers and backhoes. Been at it for two decades. Four years ago, my company was engaged by two Chinese companies to use and review their mini (2.5T) and mid size (10T) excavators, I put three into use for six months. All of this in exchange for real world reviews.
    I found that each were what I’d consider medium duty. Unlike major brands, I use Caterpillar almost exclusively, the power and pivot points of the Chinese machines were insufficient. Although the price of these units was a fourth of what the majors get, they were not able to do the same task. Wear and tear was an issue, the Chinese units required at least twice the upkeep.
    So, you get what you pay for, as always. I alway recommend to the inexperienced to rent first. You’ll quickly and painlessly learn exactly the size and configuration of the machine you need. Then, you can do a cost breakdown. A majority of the time a person will quickly summarize that renting is the best option.
    My conclusion on the Chinese units. They are over rated in digging force, stability and endurance. The engines and hydraulics are adequate but under heavy loads they don’t support the ratings. For light digging, they are fine. Hard soils, heavy boulders or stumps, not so. A comparable major brand will vastly out perform. I’d suspect we will see several of the Chinese units flood the market in the years to come, and they will eventually be sold used. That is where the cautious buyer will get the steep bargains without the shipping costs, delays and hassles.

    • @lazerusmfh
      @lazerusmfh Рік тому +13

      Under rated comment

    • @antonsjoberg
      @antonsjoberg Рік тому +5

      There is the name brands in China which would be equivalent to Caterpillar think Sany etc, these Alibaba brands are mostly just trading companies and their machines are not up to the task and you will be over-paying. A Chinese operator knowing the real price of these though he would never buy them would laugh.

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  Рік тому +4

      I hope it will hold up to digging my ditches for Geothermal loops, French drains, and moving logs. So far, so good.

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  Рік тому +1

      I agree. Very detailed and insightful.

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  Рік тому +1

      So far so good, but I am only 25 hours of operation in.

  • @LordFalconsword
    @LordFalconsword Рік тому +17

    I'm a licensed customs broker (LCB). Your forwarder was merciful. I usually charged $1,200 for a single entry bond, and his entry fee of only $140 was reasonable. That said, a third of his charges are what we called 'fillers', and explains why his entry fee was so bad.
    If I had a half million I'd probably get my port license somewhere and start bringing these little guys in. With my own truck and a couple guys I could retail those excavators for about $20k.

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  Рік тому

      Thank you for that insight. That would be a good business. I plan on buying a planet/moulder for all the wood that I am having milled these days. What would be the most efficient way of importing this while missing the fillers? The fuel surcharge was the worst.

    • @LordFalconsword
      @LordFalconsword Рік тому +11

      @@einarmikkelsenPNW Sadly the fuel surcharge is beyond your ability to avoid. The best way to mitigate is if you had an FCL (full container load). Your excavator came LCL (less than container load) and that's why they dogpiled on you. The forwarder and their overseas agent contract with a steamship line for a full container and then fill it with lots of small loads. They likely have dozens or hundreds of containers like this every week. They get a discounted rate on that margin and make more profit by charging large fuel surcharges to each consolidator down the road.
      If you want to do this going forward (not a one-off) your best bet is to find a freight forwarder, explain you're building a business, and start negotiating space on a regular basis. If you stay with one-off, you have limited options. Sorry.

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  Рік тому +1

      @@LordFalconsword thank you so much for the detailed explanation.

    • @alb2571
      @alb2571 9 місяців тому

      @LordFalconsword thank you for all 5hat insight man, you'll get an imports partner soon

  • @ChatterontheWire
    @ChatterontheWire Рік тому +11

    Thanks for the full run down on costs. Good to know about all the other pieces/parts!

  • @Dr.Reason
    @Dr.Reason 4 місяці тому +1

    I have looked a long time for this kind of useful information on UA-cam.
    Thank you very much.

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  3 місяці тому +1

      You are welcome. I am kist now releasing my 150 hour follow up. Make sure to watch it before you order.

  • @tonymunn
    @tonymunn Рік тому +4

    Wow! What a process. I hope it is all worth it in the end. Thank you.

  • @freddyf530
    @freddyf530 Рік тому +72

    This is an interesting perspective. Here in Florida, I could hit a few local auctions and get a banging deal on an excavator like that or larger. (or even shop the local used market). It is not unheard of in this area to score a piece of equipment with similar specs, or better than the chinese unit, for around $10,000.
    All those taxes, unexpected fees, and paperwork would've been a test of my willpower lol.

    • @natebenefield738
      @natebenefield738 Рік тому +14

      where are you seeing these deals? I've looked and looked and I can't find anything under 30k that isn't beaten to heck

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  Рік тому +8

      $10k would be amazing 🤩 I can't find anything close to that here in the Seattle area.

    • @themetalfusionologist
      @themetalfusionologist Рік тому +6

      I see a lot of guys arguing the “you can find one local for less”, I’m in SC, and while this area has tons of construction happening, that also opens good deals on equipment.
      Definitely won’t find one half the cost, but could possibly find one used, but a tad bigger, enclosed cab, etc for around the same price after all the “fine print” fees.
      Those import brokers on our end are literally screwing people bc they know they can & there’s nothing anyone can do bc they’re a necessity to get your goods in.
      Anyway, I like the idea of a new machine for the price, but damn that’s a lot of headache

    • @freddyf530
      @freddyf530 Рік тому

      @@themetalfusionologist I hadn't yet verified my account at the time i made that comment, so i think my replies were removed for that reason, but i found a machine local to NE FL for $10k with near identical specs to the one in this video, and it was a 2023 model. It's definitely regional, and its definitely rare. But it is entirely possible.

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  Рік тому +1

      @@themetalfusionologist Thanks for your support. It was a long process, but I did enjoy learning something new.

  • @samslaughter6613
    @samslaughter6613 Рік тому +2

    It actually arrived, incredible you are lucky!

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  Рік тому

      I purchased from a company that had been in business for a long time.

  • @donaldmosley2488
    @donaldmosley2488 11 днів тому +1

    Dang! Its a small world i believe i delivered fill dirt for your driveway project. Im considering buying a machine from alibaba. Thanknyounfor the informative video!

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  10 днів тому

      That's awesome! I have a video shirt of when my driveway was spread. I am sure you were there just before that. Let me know if you have any questions.

  • @Theemersonday
    @Theemersonday Рік тому +7

    I have been thinking of doing the same as for for a while but I was scared to order from china. Thank you for making such an informative video. This is very well put together. Gives me some more data points to order local or from china.

    • @Aprilwang-f7d
      @Aprilwang-f7d Рік тому +1

      Are you interested in mini excavators? I am the supplier of the excavator in the video

    • @郭晓东-b2t
      @郭晓东-b2t Рік тому +1

      Hello friend, have a good day, this is Denny the sales manager of Rippa, a professoional excavator manufacturer since 2014, we can supply many models excavator. Tell us what we can assist you.

    • @mad151maxx4
      @mad151maxx4 Рік тому

      ​@郭晓东 I'm thinking of purchasing one, I have order several things from ALIBABA, with really no issues when did my connect was awsome both times. BUT IM WORRIED about extra fees. Everything I order I get CIF CASH,INSURANCE, FRIEIGHT SO I just pay to my door. But never got something this heavy. Would love to talk. I want to purchase by end of year. Thx if can help

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  Рік тому

      Glad I could help!

    • @portlandlocalchurch8168
      @portlandlocalchurch8168 Рік тому

      ​@@einarmikkelsenPNWso this was a diesel powered unit? What size engine? 3cyl? 23hp?

  • @3ffrige
    @3ffrige 10 місяців тому +2

    Haha you said the process is straight forward. Straight forward for smart people with money. I’m not a smart people, nor do I have a lot of money.

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  10 місяців тому

      Hahaha 🤣 It was cheaper than buying a new one here. Yes, the paperwork ended up being a lot, but I got there in the end.

  • @nyrangers3150
    @nyrangers3150 4 місяці тому

    Thanks for putting this video up. Makes my decision easier!

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  3 місяці тому

      You are welcome. If you haven't ordered yet, watch my last video about 150 hours of operations update. It includes things I wish I had asked for.

  • @derekfowler5503
    @derekfowler5503 Рік тому +3

    If you can unload yourself...ddp is usually cheaper..with ddp you know before your finish the order what your total cost will be. The only other fee you will need to pay with ddp, is generally the rental of a fork lift to unload your shipment..the con of ddp is that you need to pay in full before or when the product ships. It sounds like you did CIF. CiF is good because you have time to pay the duties and agents fees so that could give you another.30 days or more until you need to pay the 25% duty ..however as you learned you never know what the port is going to charge- they come up with new fees while you are waiting

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  Рік тому

      I will keep this in mind when I buy a wood planing and molding machine in about a year.

  • @kittyfan8233
    @kittyfan8233 Рік тому +4

    The machine looks great, congrats on getting the right machine🎉

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  Рік тому

      Thank you! Here is the unboxing video:
      ua-cam.com/video/5MI_PoRJMeg/v-deo.html

  • @DoRC
    @DoRC Рік тому +4

    Yeah with all the fees and stuff I think it would be better just to buy locally. I'm sure you get a lightly used Kubota with similar specifications for that amount of money or maybe even less.

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  Рік тому

      It is hard to know all the costs right off the bat.

    • @DoRC
      @DoRC Рік тому +1

      @@einarmikkelsenPNW Yeah for sure. I wouldn't have guessed that it would cost that much more on the back end

  • @brockdelorenzo7505
    @brockdelorenzo7505 7 місяців тому

    Looks great. Thanks for sharing. That’s a great size and much better than the smaller cheaper ones. That’s a good price overall

  • @SamBellantoni
    @SamBellantoni 26 днів тому +1

    I just got mine delivered to my house

  • @xXB.FunkXx
    @xXB.FunkXx 7 місяців тому +1

    Thanks for making us aware of all the hidden costs. I was interested in getting one of these but the extra cost makes it out of budget.

  • @Resist.Tyranny
    @Resist.Tyranny 28 днів тому +1

    Surprised you didn't check all the import and tax costs before buying. That was the first thing I checked on. Huge increase in cost.

  • @karensparks7996
    @karensparks7996 4 місяці тому +2

    great video. thank you

  • @abramjanzen6826
    @abramjanzen6826 5 місяців тому +1

    Very informative, will likely make decisions accordingly

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  3 місяці тому

      You are welcome. If you haven't ordered yet, watch my last video about 150 hours of operations update. It includes things I wish I had asked for.

  • @_Keto_Diet
    @_Keto_Diet 11 місяців тому +4

    Very easy to unintentionally flip these over😬! New ones sell for around 3500us - 4500us plus buyer fees at auctions in my area. I would buy one for occasional work around the property.

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  11 місяців тому

      Where do you live? I would buy more for that price!

    • @_Keto_Diet
      @_Keto_Diet 11 місяців тому

      @@einarmikkelsenPNW Sorry. I don't share that but Google search would be a way to find such auctions. There's auction result websites that will list many auctions with results.

    • @ThirteenTwentyRepair
      @ThirteenTwentyRepair 10 місяців тому

      @@einarmikkelsenPNWI agree that price is cheap !! I’m in an expensive part of CA and see these locally new for between $6900-15,000. Of course I would save a lot not having to import it. I appreciate your honesty in the hidden prices, it makes me feel better about paying out 10K cash and not paying any taxes.

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  10 місяців тому

      @@ThirteenTwentyRepair We don't have any of these for those prices up here, or I would have jumped on it.

    • @brockdelorenzo7505
      @brockdelorenzo7505 7 місяців тому +2

      This is a 2.5. Larger than the typical cheap ones

  • @robertmccully2792
    @robertmccully2792 9 місяців тому +2

    Thanks for the honesty,, that will take you far in life.

  • @michaelj2505
    @michaelj2505 Рік тому +11

    Good ol uncle Sam taxing us to death on other people's items

    • @BrewingViking
      @BrewingViking Рік тому +1

      Yeah, it is to protect the domestic producers. Too complicated and deep for me :)

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  Рік тому +3

      I have since looked for Japanese companies to get around the import tax that was placed on China a few years back. What I found was that the majority of the large Japanese companies had their manufacturing in China, just like US companies are producing their phones, trucks, and much more outside the US.

    • @tracy419
      @tracy419 5 місяців тому +3

      ​@@BrewingVikingprotecting American producers by gouging American consumers 🙄😄

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  5 місяців тому

      Well, yes :) @@tracy419

  • @Dream4Design
    @Dream4Design Рік тому +2

    in Europe, I paid 27k for new kubota 1.9t, 3 hours on it.

  • @BoJoFohPah
    @BoJoFohPah 6 місяців тому

    It always comes as a shock to first time buyers on Alibaba about just how many hidden charges and taxes are involved in getting the product to them. You'd think shipping would be as easy as using a courier but there's about 20 different companies involved in one shipment and it's near impossible to coordinate unless you are a forwarding agent. It still all works out cheaper than buying domestic over all.

  • @BrandonBurns1985
    @BrandonBurns1985 Рік тому +2

    Thanks for this. I always wondered. Now I know it’s an awful experience and stupid costs involved to even get it to your door.

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  Рік тому

      I wouldn't say all that. I enjoyed it. You just have to know what to expect and what to bring.

  • @bobearl7859
    @bobearl7859 2 місяці тому +1

    Good luck finding parts

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  2 місяці тому +1

      I have had to replace a few parts. Amazon for o-rings and a local supplier for other items. Everything is off the shelf. No parts that are John Deere only.

  • @KarasCyborg
    @KarasCyborg Рік тому +4

    Thanks for this, 9k in junk fees on a 17500 purchase, or roughly 51% of the cost of the unit! That's pretty steep.

  • @BaconAstronaut
    @BaconAstronaut 11 місяців тому +5

    Next time request DDP sea freight shipping... Your life would have been so much easier

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  11 місяців тому

      Thanks for the tip.

    • @oersson
      @oersson 10 місяців тому +1

      Sorry what's ddp?

    • @2006mrderrickh
      @2006mrderrickh 7 місяців тому

      Ddp??

    • @maxkelln1
      @maxkelln1 Місяць тому

      @@oerssonDelivery Duties Paid, and it’s delivered straight to your door

    • @maxkelln1
      @maxkelln1 Місяць тому

      @@oersson Delivery Duties Paid, and it’s delivered straight to your door

  • @slikevents
    @slikevents 10 місяців тому +1

    I'm reading the comments thinking that this experience paid for itself. Excavator with shipping 26g's. UA-cam views and comments 50g's. Good job!

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  10 місяців тому

      Thanks :) I wish it was like that. You need 1,000 subscribers to get paid. That happened less than 1 month ago. My first check for $100 might come at the end of this month, so not quite $50k yet. Give me time. LOL

  • @mattholland8966
    @mattholland8966 Рік тому +1

    Yeah, I needed one for a big project, I just rented it. They delivered it to site and they picked it up when I was done. Had it the day I needed it.

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  Рік тому

      I need one for an extended period. I have so many projects that require an excavator. I looked into renting vs owning and would have spent about 10k renting. Plus, I have mad man points now!

  • @peep39
    @peep39 Рік тому +1

    "the process was pretty straightforward" good god. you could probably start a business importing these things and handling all that. I wouldn't go near something like this. I have a hard enough time buying local things and having a successful outcome. Time is precious as well. My mind keeps wandering back to buying straight from china but in the end I always just go looking through the used machinery listings

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  Рік тому +1

      It really wasn't that bad. The import paperwork was the worst.

    • @benchoflemons398
      @benchoflemons398 Рік тому

      Some people do have a business importing them and re-branding them

    • @mauricetanquary2431
      @mauricetanquary2431 Рік тому

      @@einarmikkelsenPNW Would you be interested in being a middle man for people looking to buy these equipment? Do all the import stuff, tack on a percentage for yourself, and let the buyer pick up the item at your yard?

  • @snozcocram
    @snozcocram Рік тому +3

    Thank you for answering the question. What does it really cost? Too much.

  • @rontopping2048
    @rontopping2048 Рік тому +3

    26500 total cost . You could purchase a kubota u27 for less than 30k . And sell it for 25 to 30 in 5 years

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  Рік тому +1

      With all those options? For that cost? Send me a link for delivery here in the Pacific northwest

    • @chrs1212
      @chrs1212 Рік тому

      What, where?!!
      You can't even touch a U27 with 1500 hours on it, for < $34k

  • @ictviamfortruthgoogleisspa5886
    @ictviamfortruthgoogleisspa5886 5 місяців тому +1

    Agrotic Industiries is now in USA Chicago $6000 warranty and part But unfortunately they dont make bigger mini ex

  • @markusr1308
    @markusr1308 Рік тому +1

    I see lots of brand new mini excavators on auctions here in California. People think they are getting a good deal while they still overpay.

  • @bigrigbutters187
    @bigrigbutters187 3 місяці тому +1

    Neat video. 3 months, twice as much as the "sticker" price. Good to know!

  • @jst_TV
    @jst_TV Рік тому +1

    Watching this is just like watching Donut Media’s Chang Li import video, but with extra zeroes added to the end. Those taxes and fees are a killer, geez. Also, you should pin a comment with a link to the follow-up so more people see it

  • @johnskillen6208
    @johnskillen6208 9 місяців тому +1

    i picked up a old 215 cat for 27 grand , half a hour away . 500 dollar to bring home it has gravel and landscaping bucket..

  • @default_user_id
    @default_user_id 10 місяців тому

    5 year old used minis go for about $5k in Seattle, name brand with support and available parts

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  10 місяців тому +1

      Where? Send me to the place where I can buy those.

    • @oersson
      @oersson 10 місяців тому +1

      Ditto have not seen anything like that. But maybe I'm just ignorant. Please share your links!

  • @Used-Excavators-mj2nc
    @Used-Excavators-mj2nc 7 місяців тому

    Hi, bro, thank you so much for your video. It is really interesting.

  • @DAS-Videos
    @DAS-Videos 8 місяців тому

    Holy crow. All those extra charges. That's pushing it into the Kubota range.

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  8 місяців тому

      I know, right? I do have a Yanmar engine, so that makes me feel more secure in my purchase

  • @23desdfe345r2fd23f23
    @23desdfe345r2fd23f23 10 місяців тому +1

    wow $150 shipping turned into $10k real fast.

  • @snicks50
    @snicks50 Рік тому +12

    OUCH you could have got a good used on in the states for that price

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  Рік тому +10

      True. Nice to have a brand new one, but the import tax of 25% was a killer.

    • @DW-op7ly
      @DW-op7ly Рік тому

      Yes where you get hit is trying to get your stuff through US customs

    • @chrs1212
      @chrs1212 Рік тому

      ​@@einarmikkelsenPNWThank you for posting this great informative video! I am considering one from RIPPA. The total is about $13,500. Is the 25% import tax applied to all imports from China to the US?

    • @Aprilwang-f7d
      @Aprilwang-f7d Рік тому

      @@chrs1212 YES

    • @gumelini1
      @gumelini1 Рік тому +2

      When did buying a used machine for the price of brand new start making sense?

  • @bekabeka71
    @bekabeka71 11 місяців тому +1

    $17k but $26k in total for a Chinese mini digger? Are you out of your mind? You could’ve bought a Japanese slightly used mini digger where parts are readily available

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  11 місяців тому

      Send me a link. I don't have anything like it available here.

    • @jrm163
      @jrm163 4 місяці тому

      But the parts are super expensive! Time to change the market!

  • @justreelinandpeoplin.645
    @justreelinandpeoplin.645 10 місяців тому +1

    Divide all Chinese costs by 9 this is the exchange rate or $1.00 is equal to 9.00 for theirs.

  • @kevincaruthers5412
    @kevincaruthers5412 6 місяців тому

    Wow.
    So much more than the cost of the machine.
    Yep.
    Think I'll rent.
    Thanks for giving us the low down on hidden costs.

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  6 місяців тому +1

      You got it. I need mine on a regular basis, so rental won't be a good fit for me.

  • @perjohannessen3360
    @perjohannessen3360 Рік тому +1

    Einar Mikkelsen sounds like a swedish name or northern european name, great video btw. Good choice with the yanmar engine.

  • @caocaohehe
    @caocaohehe Місяць тому +1

    A good cheap product but pay more tax and shipping vs a great used product but no shipping and less tax?

  • @jonathan993
    @jonathan993 Рік тому +3

    26k you can get a nice used bobcat for that wow

  • @basilyousif3077
    @basilyousif3077 11 місяців тому

    If there are these areas in the US where you can find a great deal on a excivator used or at local auctions it might be worth it to drive one back from say south carolina or Florida. Find the excavator on line and go pick it up. I doubt that the excavator police are going to check your machine out in the field to see if it is good to be used in your state as far as epa standards. You Dig!!!

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  11 місяців тому

      You are not allowed to import one if it doesn't have an EPA certified engine. Mine is a Yanmar. Here in the Pacific northwest, there are no cheap excavators available. A drive diagonally across the country might be cheaper and faster than ordering from China, but it wasn't for me. I wanted that new excavator smell.

  • @christophercarr8717
    @christophercarr8717 Рік тому +2

    The real issue is the depreciation of it which will be drastic. I would be curious to know the hours used at the end of the build and wonder if they would have been better off just renting as needed. Obviously renting has the issues of not having the exact time you need it but you don’t have to worry about breaking, storing it (long term) and maintenance.

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  Рік тому +1

      I use it every week so rental is not an option for me b

    • @smurface549
      @smurface549 11 місяців тому +5

      Renting is great if you have a short, single project where you have a pretty good understanding of what's to be done and how long it takes.
      On the other hand, if you own the machine, you're gonna find many uses for it where you would never consider renting due to cost and effort. Of course it depends a little on the machine type, but e.g. I own a backhoe loader. I'd never rent any large equipment for removing snow from my property for an hour every two weeks. But still it saves my back a couple times every winter and makes things possible. Or at this time of the year (northern Europe) there's not a lot of daylight to make use of, and it's getting worse. So removing tree stumps is pretty much one or two a day. I certainly won't rent a machine for two weeks just to have it sitting on my yard 23 hours a day and get charged like I'd use it around the clock.
      With owning there's obviously a large upfront payment before you get to even use the machine, the ongoing maintenance fees, and all the headache you get when a hydraulic hose blows or a mechanical part breaks. It's not a solution for everyone and every project. But if you have longer lasting work and the occasional project coming in, there's pretty much no alternative.
      As always, pick wisely and don't do a gut decision.

  • @Ed-G
    @Ed-G Рік тому +1

    Am I reading the invoice correctly? Over $25,000 for a machine listed at $13,000😮! With all that hassle, I need to rethink the electric motorcycles.
    Thank you for the very informative description of the process.

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  Рік тому

      That is correct. It started low, but I added a lot above the basic unit. As I live in the US, I needed an EPA certified engine. This is not true for everyone. I also added an auger motor and auger, a thumb, an enclosed cab and side swing. But, yes, those fees sucked!

  • @frontagulus
    @frontagulus Рік тому +6

    Thanks for posting this Einar, it's great to have all the (inflated) fees exposed that are associated with importing products. Did you find any opportunity for negotiating the fees? Are there any that could be worked around or avoided using different tactics?

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  Рік тому +2

      There were no opportunities to negotiate. However, the smallest fees for oversize shipment would have been avoided by not having the enclosed cab. Because it was too tall for one crate, it had to be removed and shipped separately.

    • @oersson
      @oersson 10 місяців тому +1

      I have heard that shipping to your door can work well. AND maybe avoid rip-off port fees. I'll be importing a 1T all electric lithium 15kwh mini soon. With 10 attachments runs about $9K in Shandong China. Wondering how much shipping customs and fees will run. Based on this fantastic video (thanks Einer!) I can realistically estimate 50% additional coming to $13.5k. Unfortunately haven't seen any electrics in USA yet. Seems pretty cutting edge still. But let's face it: fossil fuel engines with all their fluids and fumes can be a nightmare. I'll be contacting the port of Portland about door to door service.

    • @tracy419
      @tracy419 5 місяців тому

      ​@@oerssonhow far along are you in getting the electric version?
      Any details to offer?
      I'd love an electric one.

  • @jayrodathome
    @jayrodathome 24 дні тому +1

    This is a big ask but is there any chance you could share that google sheet? if not I understand but I'm considering going through the same process and would be great to not have to make on ehehe. TY. Regardless great video and I subbed

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  10 днів тому

      I will. I just have to find it. Give me some time.

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  10 днів тому

      I might have deleted it. Here is a picture of it, which I embedded in the video. It will be more detailed.
      www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/g4r3jk9yyc3kt45sq35dg/Excavator-Costs.png?rlkey=rg4ml8rnz5a0jdea2bk7s7yhe&st=ezwvxkpq&dl=0

  • @tenthousandwords
    @tenthousandwords 9 місяців тому +1

    Thanks for the informative video, Einar! I feel like talking to a historian. I might have missed it, but were you ever asked about EPA certification on the engine emission from customs?

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  9 місяців тому +1

      Yes, the certificate was required for the import documents.

  • @dakotak8437
    @dakotak8437 5 місяців тому

    Ya i bought a forestry mulcher and i didnt know about getting a broker and paying extra fees and the doc fees and all that its crazy be nice if it can all be done threw one person or a better way and telling the person befor buying but they dont care

  • @mikeschuler2946
    @mikeschuler2946 Місяць тому +1

    That’s the same it cost me for a 25 horse kiote tractor with backhoe

  • @ChuckBeefOG
    @ChuckBeefOG Рік тому +1

    Hitachi, Cat, John Deere or Komatsu. All others are substandard in the equipment world.

    • @frontagulus
      @frontagulus Рік тому +1

      In the smaller sizes, I'd always buy a Yanmar before any of those you listed. Highest quality, highest spec of any 8 tons and under, and for the middle two, you're buying the name as well which doesn't earn any $

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  Рік тому +1

      Ok

    • @ChuckBeefOG
      @ChuckBeefOG Рік тому

      @@frontagulus yeah what would I know I only own 10 pieces of equipment from 12 ton exs to 824 loaders.

  • @martinsaunders2942
    @martinsaunders2942 3 місяці тому

    I think that a lot of the import charges are USA specific..the USA does put heavy tariffs on some Chinese imports to protect their domestic market…but a lot of the smaller charges shown by the import agent were simply scamming. If you were a commercial groundwork’s contractor, where your machines are use all day, every day, by operators who don’t own the equipment..and don’t give a stuff..then buy a proprietary brand. If however you are a private buyer who wants a machine for your own use on your own property, going Chinese makes a lot of sense.. in Europe, a proprietary brand 2 ton excavator will cost a minimum of €30k….A Chinese 2 ton machine will cost less than half that ..imported. Also, the accessories, additional buckets, augers etc are a fraction of the price..So for non commercial, private use..the are fine..

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  3 місяці тому

      Thank you for your insight. Yes. Lots of us nonsense fees and taxes.

  • @markjarvis9780
    @markjarvis9780 9 місяців тому +1

    Blimey! In the UK you could buy a real brand excavator brand new for that or less!

  • @torkelsenhus
    @torkelsenhus 8 місяців тому

    Turned out to be quite expensive. Could have bought a name brand for that price, not brand new, but almost new. At least here in Norway.

  • @Married2Jamaica
    @Married2Jamaica Рік тому +1

    the main issue with these units is the instability of the movement of the machine especially If you are working on slopes, they are easy to topple over because the belt and wheel span is too short. It is manageable for flat surface work but this is a serious design flaw, and if you even pay close attention to this video you will see the unit rock which the operator clearly picks up on and then drops the lower push shovel to stabilize the unit. Just consider hat if the demonstration is on a flat and solid surface and rocks back and fourth to that degree then how much worse will it be on any incline?? Caution is all I can say when considering to buy this but they do work well in terms of durability especially if you get a kobota engine. All in all the movement issue was a deal breaker for me

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  Рік тому

      Topple over like this?
      ua-cam.com/video/Qk86V8SqvSQ/v-deo.htmlsi=AgFoHVYMQ2I51emF
      Mine came with an EPA certified Yanmar engine.

    • @oersson
      @oersson 10 місяців тому

      Hence some buyers are getting the units that have hydraulic track width extenders. I've seen those on quite a few models.

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  10 місяців тому

      I am primarily using it on flat ground. You are right, they are too heavy and a full cab didn't help.

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  10 місяців тому

      You are correct

  • @DigitalYojimbo
    @DigitalYojimbo Рік тому +2

    how do you get parts for a machine like that ?

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  Рік тому

      Most of them can be purchased locally. There are no custom parts that can't be obtained at the local farm supply store or auto supply store.

  • @otterpossum9128
    @otterpossum9128 9 місяців тому

    People seem to not understand bank wires. Seems like charges and holdups were caused by using card. Wires are easy and fast so best to learn about them.

  • @jeelsvealnerve1163
    @jeelsvealnerve1163 Рік тому +4

    Ah, America.... the land of free market capitalism! Unless you want to import something, of course.
    Thanks for the video Einar. It is very informative and helps those of us in the market for one of these mini hoes to accurately compare pricing. I hope it works out great for you. It's just very disappointing how badly everyone involved in the shipping and registering treated you. Wow.
    Good luck with your project and I hope you enjoy the machine!

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  Рік тому

      Thanks! I appreciate it. Yeah, a lot of fees. It has been great so far. I have about 15 hours on it by now, lifting heavy logs. I do have a small leak on top of the hydraulic tank, but I think it is as easy as unscrewing 8 bolts and replacing/fixing the gasket. No big deal.

  • @niio111
    @niio111 Рік тому +1

    I thought the 25% import duty was aimed at chinese products. Since Yanmar is Japanese, were you able to exclude the cost of the engine from duty?

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  Рік тому +2

      The 25% is for the Chinese market, but they can't take the price of the Japanese engine out of the total. That would have been nice.

  • @maidenlord6663
    @maidenlord6663 Рік тому

    You could have got a really good used Kubota for that much money here in America just drove and picked it up😂😂😂

  • @fredduncan1610
    @fredduncan1610 Рік тому +3

    Einar, this is a great video. I am close to purchasing one myself,though only a 1.2t. I have been budgeting $1k for the misc. fees, but that fuel surcharge fee you had took my breadth away. What part of the process was that $1,184 attributed to? Thanks!

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  Рік тому +3

      I have no idea what the fuel surcharge was all about. It was charged by Carotrans, which dealt with the handling here in Seattle.

    • @jaylast1958
      @jaylast1958 Рік тому

      On things like this you might want to figure about 50% over their price for shipping and duty/customs.

  • @tehpanda64
    @tehpanda64 9 місяців тому

    I think a similar size kubota is also about 26 grand.... I guess attachments are extra tho

  • @coregamestudio
    @coregamestudio 23 дні тому

    For that kind of money you could have got a quality Yanmar or other name brand right here in the US.

  • @Miniscapes515
    @Miniscapes515 Рік тому +1

    No way! I'll buy a used kunota for same price and have parts and dealer support

  • @charlesbrown4483
    @charlesbrown4483 Рік тому +1

    26 grand for a mini excavator from China, or, pay like 10-12 grand for a decent condition, used piece of full sized equipment and put another 3-5 grand in it to make it run great. Would be nearly 10k less than the total cost to get this thing and it’s a full sized piece of equipment instead of this pebble picker lol

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  Рік тому

      Lots of options out there. I wanted to show everyone the actual, final cost vs the listed. Wouldn't you also consider a brand new one for $14k?

    • @charlesbrown4483
      @charlesbrown4483 Рік тому

      @@einarmikkelsenPNW There's nothing I won't consider. But it just doesn't make sense to me, why spend more on a much smaller machine just because it's new? To each their own, but I wouldn't do it.

    • @frontagulus
      @frontagulus Рік тому

      @@charlesbrown4483 The machine size depends on the work it needs to do and also the customer's resources for moving it. Remember that a 5 ton or less machine can be legally moved on a 14k trailer behind an SRW 1 ton pickup. A ten ton cannot, so even if it cost less, if the customer needs to move it regularly, it has to be sized within his resources. So, I can understand why it wouldn't make sense to you if you haven't taken those sorts of factors into account. By the same token, there absolutely can be a logic to buying a used machine vs. new, a larger vs. smaller, this brand vs. that brand, etc.

    • @charlesbrown4483
      @charlesbrown4483 Рік тому

      @@frontagulus Well yeah. But this guy isn’t a professional operator so I’m going off the basis that he’s not going to be moving it often. And even if he does occasionally want to use it to do some work for other people, if they’re needing work done that badly they can use their own truck or pay for the transportation themselves. Not always like that but often times it is. And I didn’t say there wasn’t logic behind buying used vs new. In reference to this situation I said it’s more logical to buy something that’s bigger but used.

  • @khalida1419
    @khalida1419 3 місяці тому

    Wait .. the shipping is only 150$!!

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  2 місяці тому

      Oh no. The shipping to China was $150. Check out the spreadsheet for the charges beyond that, charged here in the US.

  • @rp5627
    @rp5627 Рік тому +1

    Curious if after this process and cash-out cost, if you did this again, would you buy a kubota zero down, zero interest and use it until you were done and re sell it?

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  Рік тому

      That could be a very good option. I will sell mine once I am done building the house and the garage. I'll let you know once I see the resell value :)

  • @Landscxpe
    @Landscxpe 9 місяців тому +1

    25% tax? You went through more “work” purchasing the thing then the machine will ever see

  • @jassihra8566
    @jassihra8566 Місяць тому +1

    Worlds longest process. Greedy US government and their taxes !

  • @billwatcher9321
    @billwatcher9321 9 місяців тому

    You could have bought a used excavator at Valley Equipment in Algona for less and they deliver!!

  • @scottfoster2487
    @scottfoster2487 Рік тому +2

    So basiclly you paid more for a low quality machine when with some research you could have bought a niver machine even if you had to travell some.

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  Рік тому +2

      That could be accurate. Not sure exactly. This one seems very good so far, and brand new. The Yanmar engine is a huge +

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  Рік тому

      Also, here is a follow up video:
      ua-cam.com/video/5MI_PoRJMeg/v-deo.html

    • @chrs1212
      @chrs1212 Рік тому +2

      It has a Yanmar engine, and that's the critical component. The Chinese are also using high quality hydraulic components and pumps.

    • @lewiemcneely9143
      @lewiemcneely9143 Рік тому +1

      @@einarmikkelsenPNW I remember seeing Japanese tags on hydraulics on Cat hoes YEARS ago and a pal has a 490 Deere built by Hitachi years ago with the tag on the cab stating so so it's nothing new. And Yanmar is a FINE engine.

  • @glenjamindle
    @glenjamindle 8 місяців тому

    $26k could have got you a larger, local, name brand used machine

  • @Lord_Volkner
    @Lord_Volkner 11 місяців тому +1

    $26,500? Wow.
    You could have just bought a Kubota or John Deere

  • @Kborodo740
    @Kborodo740 10 місяців тому

    26k for little chines digger bit over price after all, but good education video, now is about how long this thing will last :D

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  10 місяців тому

      It looked good at $17k. Let's see how long it lasts.

  • @littlebrit
    @littlebrit 6 місяців тому

    Once you made a contact with manufacturer, did you still need to deal with Alibaba ? yeah, you always need to pay to a customs broker, there no way you can do it yourself.

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  3 місяці тому

      I went through Alibaba for the financing security.

    • @littlebrit
      @littlebrit 3 місяці тому

      @@einarmikkelsenPNW I see. Does it work overseas ? Do they have office in your country to deal with claims?

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  3 місяці тому

      @@littlebrit It is in the top 500 most trafficked websites worldwide and is allabout international business. I don't know if they have business offices in other countries.

    • @littlebrit
      @littlebrit 3 місяці тому +1

      @@einarmikkelsenPNW Thank you for explaining!

  • @MichaelRobinson-lt6ee
    @MichaelRobinson-lt6ee 10 місяців тому

    My experience was I placed a order paid for items that never arrived and didn't receive Alibaba isn't so easy to deal with when it comes to refunding or getting ahold of someone they will honestly dismiss you as the have with me and others I know

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  10 місяців тому

      What a bummer! I have had nothing but good luck so far.

  • @bored2death4404
    @bored2death4404 11 місяців тому

    Could have literally got a nice used one for that price here in the US, and it would have been more reliable and better availability for parts

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  11 місяців тому

      I was unable to locate a new one for that price.

    • @bored2death4404
      @bored2death4404 11 місяців тому

      @@einarmikkelsenPNW I said *Used

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  11 місяців тому +1

      @@bored2death4404 Got it. That is not what I wanted.

  • @Nico-rw1uo
    @Nico-rw1uo Рік тому +1

    Hello, Congratulations 🎊 👏 for your new purchase.
    Well, despite the increased of custom tax of 25% of the whole prices, due to Mr Thump coldness 🥶 with China, or to discourage us citizen to import from China,. Would say to you if you allow to me it's a good investment with a 11 pieces of attachments.
    Thank for your straightforward with displaying your invoices.
    Well nice video and you will be using this machine for many years to come.
    Next time if ever you would purchase with China again, Contact the company directly.
    Thanks 😊

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  Рік тому

      That is good advice. I just wanted the guarantee and payment protection that comes with Alibaba, since I had never done business with them before. If I was to order again, I would go direct.

  • @gdotone1
    @gdotone1 Рік тому

    Dude? You should have told her 6500 shipping included.

  • @Pharesm
    @Pharesm Рік тому +1

    That price seems way too high for such a small excavator!

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  Рік тому +1

      I just can't find one as cheap with all these options locally in the Pacific northwest.

  • @brandoncrimmins6296
    @brandoncrimmins6296 Рік тому +2

    Holy BALLS!!! You could have and SHOULD have bought a used Cat for that price! 🤦🏻

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  Рік тому

      True, but I like new and shiny so that I can know what abuse it has gone through. So far, mine has spent 1h 20m on its side...
      ua-cam.com/video/Qk86V8SqvSQ/v-deo.html

  • @privateprivate5928
    @privateprivate5928 4 місяці тому

    I apologize for a comment i made about price. My 3.5 ton machine turned out to be 2.5 ton. A lot of lying about weight . Chinese mavhinez in this weight class have small blades and undercarriages which can cause big problems. Its surprising how these reviews turn out to be misleading. Big engine dont matter if other components wont keep up.

  • @Initial-Machinery
    @Initial-Machinery Рік тому

    Perfect ❤

  • @fsj66
    @fsj66 Рік тому +2

    Couldn't you have bought a 3t machine in the US for less than $20,000.00 from Agrotec?

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  Рік тому

      I don't know. Too late now 😞

    • @DavidCaissy
      @DavidCaissy Рік тому +6

      @@einarmikkelsenPNW The original price looked quite attractive, so I understand why you ordered one. Thanks for sharing your experience with us!

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  Рік тому +5

      @@DavidCaissy Thanks, David. Yes, it is hard, if not impossible, to figure out what you can expect from your local cargo handler. I just see a bunch of line items that make no sense to me. At least I am very happy with my purchase. A follow-up video coming very soon, possibly tomorrow.

    • @DavidCaissy
      @DavidCaissy Рік тому +3

      @@einarmikkelsenPNW If you're happy with your purchase, then you did the right thing! Looking forward to see it in action :)

  • @GabrielHodge
    @GabrielHodge 6 місяців тому

    Think you overpayed for it id love to get me one some day

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  3 місяці тому +1

      If you haven't ordered yet, watch my last video about 150 hours of operations update. It includes things I wish I had asked for.

  • @iupetre
    @iupetre Рік тому +1

    Does it need to be EPA certified?

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  Рік тому +1

      Yes, if you want it to be imported into the US, with an internal combustion engine

  • @Thelastmistake
    @Thelastmistake Рік тому

    Congrats ,I want to thank you for posting this video as a lot of people have learned from it .I am in the market also for a miniex but I see at auctions all over US for example a agrotk nt30 or nt45 which are a bit bigger than yours and go for even 11000$plus auction fees ,and are brand new 0 hrs.Were you not aware of it at the time ?Also I am also european but live in Texas and want to import a full container in houston with construction materials,the question is :the 25% is only for china imports?or from EU also?Thank you again

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  Рік тому

      Thank you for the kind words. I believe it is a tax on China only. I haven't looked into what it is from Europe.

  • @stoneyislandranch9783
    @stoneyislandranch9783 Рік тому

    can you recommend a seller that wont scam me.. or advice on how to not get scammed

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  Рік тому +1

      I looked for someone who had been in business for a while.

  • @juanpercenter7914
    @juanpercenter7914 9 місяців тому +1

    After hearing all the crap you went through to get this thing and then you say the process was pretty straight forward, I pissed myself laughing lol.

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  9 місяців тому +1

      You are not the first. It is all about expectations

  • @KUBBI7488
    @KUBBI7488 Рік тому +1

    sounds lil pricy!!!!!!!!!!!! K&R equipment in Oklahoma sells KYMRON brand with diesel engines gor under 20 k ! very good quality exes !!!

    • @einarmikkelsenPNW
      @einarmikkelsenPNW  Рік тому

      That sounds excellent, but I can't find anything like that here in Washington state.