Frequently Asked Questions

  • What should I look for when buying used excavation equipment?

    Check maintenance history, operating hours, and detailed condition reports on hydraulics, tracks, and boom performance. At Moore and Sons, each pre-owned unit includes full inspection documentation so buyers can make informed decisions. This transparency helps match equipment to Central PA terrain and project demands.

  • How does Central PA terrain affect excavator selection?

    Rocky soils, wooded lots, and uneven slopes common in Lewisburg and surrounding areas require machines with strong digging force and durable undercarriages. Moore and Sons recommends models tested in these conditions to handle foundation work, land clearing, and grading on older rural properties without excessive wear.

  • What's the difference between a skid steer and a mini excavator?

    Skid steers excel at grading, material movement, and snow handling with dozens of attachments, while mini excavators provide precise digging depth for trenching, footers, and utility work. Moore and Sons helps buyers choose based on project type, from residential landscaping to farm development across Sunbury and Selinsgrove.

  • When should I choose new equipment over used?

    New machinery offers factory warranties, modern emissions standards, and maximum fuel efficiency for high-demand commercial work. Used equipment provides cost-effective value for small contractors or homeowners tackling major land projects. Moore and Sons matches buyers to inventory based on budget, workload, and long-term fleet goals.

  • Can I trade in my old equipment when upgrading?

    Yes, Moore and Sons accepts trade-ins and offers consignment support for clients upgrading their fleet. This allows operators to offset purchase costs while ensuring their older machines are inspected and prepared for resale to buyers seeking dependable, budget-friendly options.

  • What attachments do I need for land clearing projects?

    Grapples, brush cutters, and grading blades handle tree removal, debris clearing, and leveling on wooded Central PA properties. Moore and Sons provides compatibility guidance for hydraulic flow and mounting systems, ensuring attachments fit your machine and expand its capability without requiring additional equipment purchases.

  • How do I know if a mini excavator has enough digging depth?

    Match digging depth to your project needs—residential footers typically require 6–8 feet, while utility trenching may need 10+ feet. Moore and Sons lists specs by weight class, horsepower, and reach for each compact excavator, helping buyers in Lewisburg and Danville select models suited to specific excavation tasks.

  • What's the biggest mistake buyers make when purchasing equipment?

    Choosing machines based solely on price without verifying hours, maintenance records, or terrain suitability. Moore and Sons provides transparent condition reports and jobsite-tested recommendations, ensuring buyers select equipment that handles Central Pennsylvania's rocky soil and varied properties without unexpected repairs or downtime.

  • Why do I need a DOT-compliant trailer for hauling equipment?

    DOT-compliant trailers meet safety and payload standards required for transporting heavy machinery between job sites in Pennsylvania. Moore and Sons offers utility trailers, equipment haulers, and dump trailers with proper axle configurations and ratings, ensuring legal, safe transport for skid steers, excavators, and loaders across the Greater Susquehanna Valley.

  • How does foundation excavation differ on older rural properties?

    Older properties often feature rocky soil, uneven grades, and unknown underground obstacles requiring experienced operators and robust equipment. Moore and Sons uses well-maintained machinery to deliver clean cuts and stable soil conditions for homes, garages, and additions throughout Lewisburg, minimizing disruption to surrounding landscapes.

  • What wear parts should I keep on hand for excavators?

    Hydraulic hoses, cutting edges, pins, seals, and tracks are essential to avoid downtime during active projects. Moore and Sons stocks common maintenance items and can order specialty components quickly, helping contractors across Sunbury and Selinsgrove keep machines operating without delays on demanding Central PA job sites.

  • Can a skid steer handle year-round work in Pennsylvania?

    Yes, skid steers with tracked undercarriages perform well in snow, mud, and mixed soil conditions common across Central PA. Moore and Sons offers both wheeled and tracked models in various horsepower ranges, ideal for grading, material movement, and snow handling throughout Lewisburg, Hazleton, and surrounding communities.