Frequently asked questions
Everything buyers want to know before their first mini excavator. Your question is missing? Ask us directly — we answer quickly and honestly.
What does a Rippa mini excavator cost in Switzerland?
Between CHF 6'490 (R10 ECO Yoop, 978 kg) and CHF 26'990 (R32 PRO, 3.2 tonnes), depending on the model. All prices are fixed, incl. CH-wide delivery — no hidden costs are added. Current prices are on the model pages.
Are Rippa excavators available immediately?
Yes — R06 ECO, R10 ECO (Yoop and Kubota), R13 PRO, R15 ECO and R18 PRO are in stock in Switzerland and can be viewed, test dug and taken away immediately. R22 PRO and R32 PRO are delivered to order in 4–6 weeks.
Can I test the excavator before buying?
Yes, we explicitly encourage it. Book a viewing with a test dig — you sit in the machine and dig yourself. Appointments are also possible in the evening and on Saturdays.
Where can I buy a Kubota mini excavator in Switzerland?
At Rippa Schweiz in Gersau — all models with a genuine Kubota diesel, available immediately from stock. Detailed information at rippa-schweiz.ch/kubota-minibagger-schweiz. Viewing and test digs by appointment.
Which engine is fitted in Rippa mini excavators?
Mostly genuine Kubota diesel engines (Z482, D722, D902, D1105, V1505) — the most widely used engine in the compact class. Exception: the R10 ECO Yoop with a Yoop 192F as an affordable entry point (from CHF 6'490). Kubota spare parts and service are available nationwide at every Kubota service point.
How good is the build quality of Rippa excavators?
Rippa builds solid machines with branded components (Kubota engine, common hydraulic components) at roughly half the price of established brands. For daily heavy-duty use in a construction business, we recommend the PRO line. The best way to judge is to try one yourself during a test dig.
What is the difference between ECO and PRO models?
ECO models are reduced to the essentials and ideal for private and occasional use. PRO models come with more equipment: quick coupler and hydraulic thumb as standard, pilot joysticks, smart screen and anti-burst valves from the R18 upward, full cab from the R22 upward.
Do I need a special driving licence for a mini excavator?
On private land and building sites you do not need a special licence. For road transport on a trailer, the normal rules apply (Cat. B up to 3.5 t gross train weight, BE above that). The 1-tonne models fit on a standard braked trailer.
Can I transport a 1-tonne excavator with a car?
Yes. The R10 ECO weighs around 1'020 kg — together with a braked trailer (approx. 400–500 kg) you stay under the towing capacity of many SUVs and vans. Check the towing capacity stated in your vehicle registration document.
Does a mini excavator fit through a normal garden gate?
The R13 PRO, at 78 cm wide, is the narrowest in our range — it fits through standard doors, lifts and cellar access ways. The R10 ECO can be narrowed to 90 cm with its adjustable undercarriage.
How deep can a mini excavator dig?
Between 1.8 m (R10/R15) and 2.8 m (R32 PRO), depending on the model. For foundations, drainage and utility lines, 1.8–2.4 m is sufficient in most cases.
Are spare parts available for Rippa excavators?
Yes. Common wear parts (filters, teeth, bolts, seals, hoses) are supplied from stock or within 48 h. Engine parts run through the nationwide Kubota network. Special parts arrive by air freight from the factory in 1–2 weeks.
Is there a warranty on Rippa mini excavators?
Yes, we grant a warranty on new machines in line with our terms and conditions. We clarify the details transparently before purchase — just ask us directly.
How does direct import from China compare on price?
At first glance it looks cheaper — but sea freight, VAT, transport insurance, often a middleman and 8–12 weeks of waiting time are added on top. Without a dealer you also have no point of contact for warranty and spare parts. In the end the price difference is small, but the risk is considerably higher.
Do you deliver throughout Switzerland?
Yes, CH-wide delivery at a fixed price. Smaller models can also be collected directly with a trailer — we help with loading.
Can I also rent a Rippa excavator?
Yes — daily and weekly rental on request. With Rent-to-Buy: buy within 3 months and 100% of the rental cost is credited against the purchase price.
Do you offer financing or leasing?
Financing is possible on request. Contact us with the model you are interested in and we will show you the options.
What accessories are available for Rippa mini excavators?
Hydraulic hammer, earth auger, tilt bucket, toothed and smooth-edge buckets, screening bucket, grapple, pallet fork and ripper. Quick coupler and hydraulic thumb already come as standard on many models.
Which mini excavator suits landscaping work?
For most garden projects the R10 ECO is ideal (Yoop from CHF 6'490 or Kubota from CHF 7'990): 1 tonne, adjustable undercarriage from 91 cm, thumb and quick coupler as standard. For tight access (doors, lifts) the R13 PRO at 78 cm is the better choice.
Where does Rippa come from and who is behind the brand?
Rippa (Shandong Rippa Machinery Group) is a Chinese manufacturer of compact machines that has grown strongly in Europe for years. We are your dealer in Switzerland: stock, advice, test digs, spare parts and service on site.
How quickly will I get a reply to my enquiry?
Via WhatsApp usually within a few hours, by email within 24 h. Fastest: a WhatsApp message with your project — we get back to you with an honest recommendation.
Do you take old excavators in trade?
Trade-ins are possible depending on the machine — send us photos and key details via WhatsApp and we will make you a fair offer.