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Compact excavator · verified Caterpillar data

Caterpillar 305 CR Mini Excavator

The Caterpillar 305 CR is a compact-radius excavator in the five-to-six-tonne class. Caterpillar publishes distinct canopy and cab weight ranges, which should stay attached to those configurations.

Published Verified August 2026 1 manufacturer source

United States / North American reference

Verified specifications

Values are manufacturer-published or faithfully converted from the cited manufacturer record. Manufacturer-published dual units are retained where available, and the basis column travels with every value.
Manufacturer-verified specifications
SpecificationMetricImperialStandard / configuration
Net engine power33.6 kW45 hpISO 9249 · Manufacturer-published reference configuration
Operating-weight range4,996–5,754 kg11,016–12,688 lbMinimum canopy to maximum cab configuration
Maximum digging depth3,670 mm144.5 inManufacturer reference configuration

What the specifications mean

01

Use the applicable end of the weight range for trailer planning.

02

The depth figure screens trenching fit; boom swing and dump height still matter on tight sites.

03

ISO 9249 net power supports a fairer cross-brand comparison than unqualified horsepower.

Configurations and options to verify

  • Canopy and cab minimum/maximum weights are published separately.
  • Blade, arm, counterweight, track and coupler choices change the transport profile.
  • Compact radius reduces rear overhang but does not eliminate clearance checks.

Used 305 CR inspection priorities

  • Check rubber tracks, sprockets, rollers and idlers together; inspect final-drive leakage and travel response.
  • Measure boom, arm, bucket, swing-post and blade-pin play, then test drift under load.
  • Operate auxiliary hydraulics and the coupler with the intended tool where practical.
  • Verify safety interlocks, display warnings, service access and cold-start behaviour.

Hours, condition and ownership cost

Hours are context, not a condition grade. Duty cycle, idle time, maintenance evidence, wear-system measurements, structural repairs and installed technology should be evaluated together.

Cost drivers to model

  • Track-system wear, compact access repairs and attachment utilization shape hourly cost.
  • Separate idle hours from productive duty and review daily greasing and service evidence.
  • Include trailer, tow vehicle, loading equipment and attachment changes in mobilization cost.

Attachments and compatibility

  • Confirm pin pickup or coupler interface, tool weight and hydraulic requirements.
  • Buckets, breakers, thumbs, augers and compactors can require different plumbing or controls.
  • Check blade and counterweight configuration when attachment stability matters.

Transport planning

  • Use scale-ready operating weight plus the actual bucket, coupler, blade and fluids—not the rounded machine class.
  • Measure width and height in travel condition and confirm trailer, axle and tow-vehicle limits independently.

Manufacturer provenance

Sources and verification notes

Each exact value above points to one of these first-party records.
Caterpillar

305 CR Mini Hydraulic Excavator

United States · exact model technical page · verified August 2026 · confidence: manufacturer-verified

Open manufacturer source

This page describes a model family using cited manufacturer information. It is not a listing, appraisal, load chart, attachment approval or transport determination. Verify the serial-specific machine and current documentation before purchase or operation.