Mini Excavator Size Chart: Tonnage, Width and Dig Depth
Qisheng Machinery · Updated October 17, 2026
Quick Answer
A mini excavator size chart is useful when every column describes a defined measurement. The QS reference below gives catalogue overall dimensions and maximum digging depth, with Basic and PRO separated where the figures differ. Model-class names organize the range; they are not verified operating or transport weights.
Use the table to identify dimensions that need closer checking. A quoted width does not include the space needed to turn, work beside an obstruction or set up an attachment.
QS Catalogue Dimensions in Millimetres
These figures come from Qisheng's October 9, 2026 v9 catalogue. Confirm them against the specific version and options offered. Length, width and height are overall catalogue dimensions, rather than packing measurements or an approved stowed transport envelope.
| Series/version | Nominal class | Overall length | Overall width | Overall height | Maximum digging depth |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| QS-10 Basic | 1-ton class | 2,200 | 930 | 2,200 | 1,650 |
| QS-10 PRO | 1-ton class | 2,200 | 940 | 2,150 | 1,500 |
| QS-12 | 1.2-ton class | 2,200 | 940 | 2,150 | 1,760 |
| QS-15 | 1.5-ton class | 2,200 | 1,000 | 2,150 | 1,760 |
| QS-18 | 1.8-ton class | 2,250 | 1,160 | 2,200 | 2,100 |
| QS-20 | 2-ton class | 2,400 | 1,200 | 2,200 | 2,150 |
| QS-25 | 2.5-ton class | 2,700 | 1,300 | 2,400 | 2,600 |
All dimensional entries are in mm. Divide by 1,000 to express them in metres: 1,160 mm is 1.16 m, and 2,100 mm is 2.10 m. Keep the same units when comparing a site survey with the chart.
The catalogue does not provide verified working/transport mass or a complete lifting chart for these configurations. Obtain those records separately instead of filling the gaps from the nominal class.
Compare Width and Digging Depth
The listed maximum digging depth is identical for QS-12 and QS-15 at 1,760 mm, while their widths differ by 60 mm. Moving from one class name to another therefore does not necessarily buy more depth.
QS-20 is 40 mm wider than QS-18 in this table, with 50 mm more listed maximum depth. Whether those differences matter depends on the required excavation shape and access, rather than a general claim that the next class is more productive.
QS-10 PRO has a shallower listed maximum depth than Basic. Compare the actual configuration rather than reading “PRO” as a promise that every dimension or working limit increases.
For the rest of the operating envelope, request the applicable drawing and configuration. A maximum depth is a reach limit under the stated arrangement, not permission to cut every trench to that depth from any position.
Separate Overall Width from Working Clearance
Overall width helps screen a straight passage. The survey still needs blade and attachment projections, overhead clearance, corners, support conditions and the space around the rotating upper structure.
As a hypothetical first check, a 1,200 mm opening minus the QS-18 catalogue width of 1,160 mm leaves 40 mm total. That subtraction is not a passage approval or a recommended clearance. The actual route and supplied machine need assessment before choosing the model.
Retractable tracks also need two defined measurements: the permitted travel arrangement and the required working arrangement. The QS catalogue identifies an option, but does not supply a verified minimum width for every quoted version. Do not replace the table's width with an assumed retracted value.
Keep a Record of What Each Figure Includes
| Record | Identify with the measurement | Use it for |
|---|---|---|
| Catalogue dimensions | Model, version and source date | Initial comparison |
| Delivered configuration | Cab/canopy, tracks, coupler and tool | Checking what was actually supplied |
| Transport envelope | Approved stowed arrangement and projections | Vehicle and route planning |
| Actual load mass | Included equipment, fluids and loose items | Payload assessment |
| Working envelope | Applicable tool, setup and machine drawing | Reviewing the planned task |
Keep these records together. If a cab, coupler or attachment changes, check the affected measurements again rather than reusing a figure from a different machine.
The transport guide explains the mass and stowed-envelope checks. The lifting-capacity guide explains why a digging-depth table cannot establish an allowable suspended load.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best mini excavator size?
The appropriate size meets the actual access, working-envelope and tool requirements. The chart can eliminate unsuitable dimensions, but cannot replace the site and configuration review.
Why is operating weight not filled in beside the class?
The available QS catalogue does not provide verified operating weights. A model badge is not a weighing record, so the values should remain unconfirmed until the correct evidence is supplied.
Can I use overall height as the loaded road height?
No. Road-going height includes the carrying vehicle and approved transported arrangement. Confirm the complete combination with the transport operator.
Related Guides and Models
Use the mini excavator size selection guide to organize requirements and browse mini excavator models for individual configurations.
Request the Configuration Record
Send Qisheng Machinery your route measurements and required working envelope. Ask for the exact version, relevant drawings and remaining mass or transport measurements before accepting a mini excavator size from the class name alone.