CAT CLASS: HQ-10202

Up to 14 ft Backhoe Loader

Up to 14 ft backhoe loaders occupy the compact end of the backhoe spectrum, sized for residential service lines, small yards, and jobs where a single machine must both load and dig. With dig depths from 3.1 to 10.1 ft and operating weights from 5,806 to 12,148 kg, these machines balance maneuverability with sufficient reach for shallow trenching and site prep. They represent the entry point on the backhoe loader ladder, stepping up to 14-16 ft models when deeper excavation or heavier earthmoving is required.

Models

Brands

Cat classes

Pick a size class — capacity and reach differ across the range.

Key specifications

Specification	Typical range	What it means
Max dig depth	3.1–10.1 ft (0.9–3.1 m)	Sufficient for residential water, sewer, and electrical service lines
Engine power	36–75 hp	Adequate for loader work and continuous backhoe operation in typical soil
Operating weight	12,787–26,786 lb (5,800–12,150 kg)	Light enough for residential driveways and lawns while maintaining stability during digging
Hydraulic system capacity	91–134 L	Supports loader bucket operation and backhoe attachment cycling

How to choose

This size class suits residential utility installation, small lot grading, and landscaping jobs where access is limited and dig depth stays below 10 ft. The compact footprint allows operation in tight yards, narrow streets, and established neighborhoods without excessive ground disturbance. When excavation depths exceed 10 ft, foundation work is involved, or the job requires extended reach for drainage installation, the 14-16 ft Backhoe Loader class delivers the necessary digging envelope and stability. For routine service line work, driveway prep, and small-scale trenching, machines in this up-to-14-ft band provide the versatility without the transport and footprint penalties of larger models.

What this size handles

Residential water and sewer service line installation to 8 ft depth
Small lot grading and site prep for sheds or accessory structures
Landscape trench excavation for irrigation and drainage systems
Driveway subgrade preparation and base material placement
Minor foundation repair access and backfill in confined yards
Utility pole setting and cable trench work in residential streets

Safety & operation

ROPS (rollover protective structure) and seatbelts are standard; operator remains in cab when switching between loader and backhoe functions
Outriggers or stabilizers must be fully deployed and bearing on firm ground before backhoe operation begins
Utility locate and hand-digging verification are critical at depths where service lines typically run (2–8 ft)
Compact size increases risk of tip-over on slopes; manufacturer stability charts specify maximum safe operating angles

Transport & logistics

Standard equipment trailers rated 12,000–16,000 lb capacity handle most models in this class
Typical trailer dimensions 18–20 ft with ramps; towing requires ¾-ton or 1-ton pickup depending on machine weight
Compact models under 7,000 kg may load on lighter-duty tilt trailers with appropriate tie-down points

Power & supply

Diesel fuel tanks hold 129–250 L, supporting 6–10 hours of mixed loader and backhoe operation
Fuel consumption averages 3–6 L/hour under typical loading and digging cycles
No external power required; machines are self-contained with onboard diesel engines

Frequently asked

What distinguishes this size from larger backhoe loaders?

Machines in the up-to-14-ft class offer dig depths below 10.1 ft and weigh under 12,150 kg, making them suitable for residential access and transport on standard equipment trailers. Larger classes provide extended reach and heavier counterweights for commercial excavation.

Can this size handle commercial site work?

These machines are sized for light commercial tasks such as small parking lot utility runs, landscape installation, and minor grading. Projects requiring dig depths beyond 10 ft, large-volume earthmoving, or heavy foundation work typically justify the 14-16 ft or 16+ ft size classes.

What dig depth range covers typical residential utilities?

Water and sewer service lines commonly run 4–8 ft deep, well within the 3.1–10.1 ft range of this class. Electric and communication lines are often shallower, at 2–4 ft, making these machines appropriate for most residential utility installation and repair.

Compare popular models

Find by spec →

Normalised to the same units. A dash means the figure was not published.

Model	Operating weight	Max dig depth	Max reach	Engine power
John Deere 310G	12,800 lb (5,806 kg)	4.2 ft (1.3 m)	-	75 hp
John Deere 710P	26,782 lb (12,148 kg)	5.3 ft (1.6 m)	27.1 ft (8.3 m)	84 hp
JCB 1CXT	-	10.1 ft (3.1 m)	-	49 hp
John Deere 320P	-	4.3 ft (1.3 m)	-	-