Caterpillar 305 CR overview
The Caterpillar 305 CR is a mini excavator best suited to heavier 5-ton digging and utility work. The table above lists its key specifications; the price shown is an indicative 2026 range — new-equipment pricing varies with configuration, attachments, dealer, and region, so always get a dealer quote for your exact build.
Caterpillar 305 CR price
Budget roughly $70,000–$95,000 for a new machine before attachments, delivery, and financing. (This range is interpolated from used-market data and class norms, as the manufacturer does not publish a public MSRP.) Used examples sell for meaningfully less depending on hours and condition.
New vs used & financing
Buying new gets you warranty, financing incentives, and top resale; used saves roughly 25–45% if you verify hours and service history. See our financing guide for loan and lease options and Section 179 tax treatment.
Rent or buy?
If your utilization is below ~60% (under ~12–14 days a month), renting usually costs less — check live rates and the break-even on rentd.
Specs & price via Caterpillar and dealer/marketplace listings (source); indicative only.