United Rentals offers a wide range of backhoe rentals for projects big and small. Backhoes are multipurpose earthmoving machines used in construction projects for trench work, utility street work, loading and more. Backhoes are named for their extending arm that pulls dirt "back and up” from a site. While often referred to as construction backhoe machines, these tools are more commonly known as diggers or backhoe loaders. Large backhoe rentals are typically smaller than excavators and equipped with four wheels that can tread on smooth or rough terrain. We also offer narrow backhoe loader rentals with 2-wheel drive and heavier-duty 4-wheel drive models.

Backhoes can fit in narrow worksites and trailers where large earthmovers can't. But they can still complete heavy-duty work. Extensions for the cab and arms are available to meet your site’s needs.

FAQs About Backhoes

How deep can a backhoe dig?

• Digging depth depends on the model of the backhoe; the standard backhoe we offer digs up to 14'8''. We also offer bucket extensions that can offer an additional 3’6” foot dig. Not sure what you need? Call United Rentals today.

How many yards does a backhoe bucket hold?

• While we offer multiple backhoe models, typically each bucket can hold around 1.03 cubic yards of soil. Different buckets are available for multipurpose applications. See our Earthmoving Attachments for more backhoe bucket options.

Is a backhoe the same as an excavator?

• Backhoes and excavators (specifically mini excavators) look similar and they can do similar jobs, but they are different in important ways. Typically excavators are much bigger, but mini excavators can do a lot of the same things backhoes can do. They both have articulating booms, dippers, and buckets and are used for trench work, construction work and more. Excavators don't have wheels; they run on tracks (that is why they are also known as trackhoes), and they have very good traction for slick, muddy sites. Excavators have 360-degree swing rotation, but backhoes only have 180- to 200-degree swing rotation. Learn more about the differences between backhoes and excavators on Project Uptime.