Where to Find the Serial Number on Your Excavator
If you own, operate or maintain an excavator, there will probably come a time when you are asked for the machine's serial number.
You might be checking the specification of a machine, ordering replacement parts, updating fleet records, arranging servicing, confirming the age of an excavator or simply trying to establish exactly which version of a machine you own.
The model number is normally easy to find. Large decals on the side of the machine might tell you that you have a Volvo EC140BLC, Caterpillar 320D, Komatsu PC210LC-10 or Kubota KX080-4.
The serial number can be a little harder to find.
Depending on the manufacturer, it may be referred to as the Serial Number, Product Identification Number (PIN), Product ID or Machine Number. It will usually be displayed on an identification plate attached to the machine, and on some excavators an identification number may also be stamped directly into the frame.
The exact position varies between manufacturers, models, generations and years.
In this guide, we'll explain:
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What an excavator serial number is
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Why your excavator serial number is important
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The difference between a model number and serial number
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Where to start looking for your excavator serial number
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What an excavator identification plate looks like
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Where to look on Volvo excavators
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Where to look on Hyundai excavators
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Where to look on Doosan excavators
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Where to look on Caterpillar excavators
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Where to look on Bobcat excavators
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Where to look on Komatsu excavators
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Where to look on Kobelco excavators
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Where to look on Case excavators
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Where to look on Kubota excavators
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Where to look on Takeuchi excavators
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What to do if the serial plate is missing
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What to do if the serial number is unreadable
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How to keep accurate machine identification records
What Is an Excavator Serial Number?
An excavator serial number is a unique identification number assigned to an individual machine by its manufacturer.
Think of the model as identifying the type of excavator, while the serial number identifies your individual machine.
For example, a manufacturer may produce thousands of excavators with the same model designation.
There could be thousands of:
Volvo EC220s
Caterpillar 320s
Komatsu PC210s
Kobelco SK210s
in operation around the world.
The serial number allows an individual machine to be distinguished from every other excavator of the same model.
Depending on the manufacturer and age of the machine, this number may be referred to as:
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Serial Number
-
Product Identification Number
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PIN
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Product ID
-
Machine Number
-
Identification Number
You shouldn't be too concerned if your machine uses different terminology.
The important thing is finding the main machine identification plate fitted by the manufacturer.
What Is the Difference Between an Excavator Model and Serial Number?
The easiest way to understand the difference is to look at an example.
Imagine you have a:
Komatsu PC210LC-10
The PC210LC-10 is the model.
There may be many machines carrying that same model designation.
The serial number is the unique number assigned to one particular PC210LC-10.
This distinction is important because excavator manufacturers regularly make changes during a model's production life.
Two excavators can therefore look almost identical and have exactly the same model written on the side, while having been manufactured at different times.
The serial number helps establish exactly where an individual excavator sits within that production run.
Why Is Your Excavator Serial Number Important?
Your machine serial number is one of the most useful pieces of information you can keep about an excavator.
It can be used for a wide range of purposes throughout the machine's life.
Machine Identification
The most obvious purpose is identifying the individual excavator.
A fleet might contain several excavators of exactly the same make and model. The serial number gives each one a unique identity.
This becomes particularly important when keeping:
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Maintenance records
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Service histories
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Inspection records
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Fleet databases
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Machine documentation
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Asset registers
Rather than recording work against "Kubota KX080", it can be recorded against the specific machine.
Establishing the Exact Machine Specification
Excavator models can remain in production for many years.
During that period, manufacturers may make design changes and updates.
These aren't always obvious from looking at the machine externally.
A serial number therefore provides another level of identification beyond the basic model designation.
Confirming the Age of an Excavator
The machine serial number can sometimes be used alongside manufacturer information and records to help establish when an excavator was manufactured.
This can be particularly useful when purchasing used machinery.
Never assume the year of a machine based solely on its appearance.
Excavators are frequently repainted, decals are replaced and body panels can be changed.
Maintaining Accurate Fleet Records
If your business operates several excavators, recording serial numbers from the beginning makes managing the fleet much easier.
For each machine, you might record:
Manufacturer: Caterpillar
Model: 320D
Serial/PIN: XXXXXXXX
Year: 2012
Fleet Number: EXC-014
That gives the machine a permanent record regardless of who operates it or where it is working.
Where Is an Excavator Serial Number Located?
There isn't one universal location used by every excavator manufacturer.
However, there are several areas where identification plates are commonly fitted.
If you're standing next to the excavator trying to find the serial number, we recommend checking these areas first.
1. Around the Cab
Start with the cab or operator's area.
This is one of the most common locations for excavator identification plates.
Walk around the cab and inspect:
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Below the cab
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Beside the cab door
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Around the cab mounting area
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Immediately underneath the cab
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The structural frame surrounding the cab
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Around the operator's station on open-canopy machines
You're looking for a rectangular metal plate or durable manufacturer's label.
On older excavators, it may not immediately stand out.
Years of dirt, grease, paint and weathering can make an identification plate blend into the surrounding frame.
2. Check the Upper Structure
If you can't find anything around the cab, inspect the excavator's upper structure.
The upper structure is the rotating section of the excavator above the undercarriage.
Pay particular attention to structural areas rather than removable doors and panels.
Identification plates are generally fitted somewhere that forms a permanent part of the machine.
3. Check the Main Frame
Look carefully around the machine's main structural frame.
Depending on the excavator, you may find either an identification plate or a number stamped directly into the steel.
A stamped identification number can be particularly useful on an older machine where the original plate has been damaged or lost.
You may need a torch to see it properly.
4. Check Around the Operator's Station on Mini Excavators
On mini excavators, especially canopy models, the identification plate may be positioned around the operator's station or nearby frame.
Because the machine is smaller, the plate can sometimes be easy to overlook.
Inspect both sides of the operator's area and the structural frame underneath it.
5. Look Under Dirt and Paint
If you have an older excavator, don't assume the plate is missing just because you can't immediately see it.
Construction equipment spends its life operating in harsh environments.
Over the years an identification plate can become covered by:
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Mud
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Hydraulic oil
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Grease
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Dust
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Rust
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Paint
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Underseal
Use a cloth and suitable cleaner to carefully clean areas where you suspect a plate may be located.
Avoid aggressive cleaning methods that could damage the information underneath.
What Does an Excavator Serial Number Plate Look Like?
Identification plates vary considerably between manufacturers.
Most are rectangular and made from metal or a durable printed material.
The manufacturer's name or logo will normally appear prominently on the plate.
You may then see information such as:
Manufacturer
Machine Model
Serial Number
Product Identification Number (PIN)
Product ID
Machine Mass / Weight
Engine Power
Year of Manufacture
Manufacturing Location
Not every plate contains all of this information.
Older machines in particular may have relatively simple plates.
If you're unsure which number is the serial number, the easiest solution is to take a photograph of the entire plate.
That prevents an important prefix, suffix or character being missed.
Serial Number vs PIN: Are They the Same Thing?
You may hear the terms serial number and PIN used interchangeably when discussing excavators.
PIN stands for Product Identification Number.
Some manufacturers use a PIN format, while others refer more simply to a machine serial number.
For most owners and operators, the practical advice is the same:
Find the main manufacturer's identification plate and record the complete identification number exactly as it appears.
Don't remove letters or zeros because they don't look important.
The entire sequence may be required to correctly identify the machine.
Where Is the Serial Number on a Volvo Excavator?
If you're trying to find the serial number or PIN on a Volvo excavator, start by checking around the cab and upper structure.
Look carefully for the manufacturer's identification plate.
A Volvo machine plate should allow you to establish the complete machine model and Product Identification Number.
For example:
Manufacturer: Volvo
Model: EC140BLC
PIN: XXXXXXXXXXXXX
When recording your Volvo model, copy the complete designation.
Don't shorten:
EC140BLC
to:
EC140
The letters following the basic model number form part of the machine's identification.
The same applies to later Volvo excavator generations where apparently small changes to the model designation can identify a different generation or configuration.
Can't Find the Volvo Serial Plate?
Start at the cab and work methodically around the machine.
Inspect the permanent structure rather than focusing only on doors and removable body panels.
If the machine has been repainted, look carefully for areas where a plate may have been masked, painted around or covered.
Where Is the Serial Number on a Hyundai Excavator?
To find the serial number on a Hyundai excavator, inspect the cab area and upper frame for the manufacturer's identification plate.
The plate should show the complete Hyundai model and serial number.
For example:
Manufacturer: Hyundai
Model: R210LC-9
Serial Number: XXXXXXXX
Make sure you record the entire model designation.
Hyundai has produced numerous generations of similar-sized excavators.
For example:
R210LC-7
R210LC-9
HX220L
are distinct model designations.
If you're recording the machine for future reference, photograph the complete plate rather than recording only the number.
This gives you the original manufacturer information to refer back to later.
Where Is the Serial Number on a Doosan Excavator?
If you're looking for the serial number on a Doosan excavator, check around the cab, upper structure and main frame.
Look for the manufacturer's machine identification plate.
It should display the complete model and serial or identification number.
For example:
Manufacturer: Doosan
Model: DX225LC
Serial Number: XXXXXXXX
Doosan or Develon?
You may now see the Develon name used on newer construction equipment.
The Doosan construction equipment brand was changed to Develon, so the branding you see will depend partly on the age of the machine.
If you own an older machine carrying Doosan branding, record it exactly as shown on the identification plate.
For a newer Develon machine, do the same.
Where Is the Serial Number on a Caterpillar Excavator?
If you're trying to find the serial number on a Caterpillar excavator, you'll commonly be looking for the machine's Product Identification Number or PIN.
Check around the cab and upper frame for the Caterpillar identification plate.
You may also find identification markings stamped into the machine structure.
For example:
Manufacturer: Caterpillar
Model: 320D
PIN: XXXXXXXX
Caterpillar Serial Number Prefixes
With Caterpillar machines, pay particular attention to any letters forming part of the identification number.
Don't copy only the numerical section.
Record the complete PIN exactly as shown.
Don't Just Use the CAT Decal
The large CAT branding and model number on the bodywork aren't a substitute for the manufacturer's identification plate.
A decal might tell you that you're looking at a CAT 320D.
The PIN identifies the individual machine.
Panels and decals can also be replaced, particularly on older construction equipment.
The machine identification plate should therefore be your primary reference.
Where Is the Serial Number on a Bobcat Excavator?
On a Bobcat excavator or mini excavator, start by inspecting the main frame and operator's area.
Look for the machine's product identification or serial number plate.
For example:
Manufacturer: Bobcat
Model: E50
Serial Number: XXXXXXXX
Bobcat manufactures a large range of compact equipment, so make sure the identification plate you're looking at belongs to the machine itself.
Bobcat Mini Excavators
On compact and mini excavators, identification plates can be relatively small.
Look carefully around:
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Operator's area
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Cab
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Main frame
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Structure underneath or beside the operator's station
If the plate is dirty, wipe it carefully before photographing it.
Where Is the Serial Number on a Komatsu Excavator?
To find the serial number on a Komatsu excavator, check around the cab, upper structure and main machine frame.
Look for a Komatsu machine identification plate showing the model and serial number.
For example:
Manufacturer: Komatsu
Model: PC210LC-10
Serial Number: XXXXX
With Komatsu machines, it's particularly important to record the full model designation.
For example:
PC210
PC210LC-8
PC210LC-10
PC210LC-11
should not be recorded as though they're the same model.
If the plate says PC210LC-10, keep the entire designation in your machine records.
Older Komatsu Excavators
On older machines, the identification plate may be weathered, dirty or painted around.
Look for evidence of rivets or a rectangular outline on the frame if the plate isn't immediately obvious.
Where Is the Serial Number on a Kobelco Excavator?
On a Kobelco excavator, look around the cab and upper machine frame for the identification plate.
The plate should contain the full Kobelco model and serial number.
For example:
Manufacturer: Kobelco
Model: SK210LC-10
Serial Number: XXXXXXXX
Kobelco has produced many generations of its excavator models, so don't leave off the generation information.
If your plate shows:
SK210LC-10
record exactly that rather than simply:
SK210
The full model designation and serial number together provide a much clearer identification of the machine.
Where Is the Serial Number on a Case Excavator?
If you're looking for the serial number on a Case excavator, inspect the cab area, upper structure and main frame.
Look for the Case identification or PIN plate.
For example:
Manufacturer: Case
Model: CX210D
PIN: XXXXXXXX
On older Case machines, identification plates may have become difficult to read.
Take your time and inspect both sides of the machine.
If you find a plate covered in paint or dirt, clean it carefully rather than using anything abrasive.
A partially readable original plate can still contain valuable machine information.
Where Is the Serial Number on a Kubota Excavator?
If you have a Kubota mini excavator, start by checking around the operator's area, cab and main machine frame.
Look for the Kubota machine identification plate.
For example:
Manufacturer: Kubota
Model: KX080-4
Serial Number: XXXXX
Make sure you record any numbers appearing after a hyphen.
For example:
KX61
and
KX61-3
are not the same complete model designation.
The same principle applies across Kubota's excavator range.
Open-Canopy Kubota Excavators
If your Kubota has an open canopy rather than an enclosed cab, inspect the structural areas surrounding and underneath the operator's station.
The identification plate may be less obvious than it would be on a larger excavator.
Where Is the Serial Number on a Takeuchi Excavator?
For a Takeuchi excavator or mini excavator, check around the cab, canopy, operator's area and main frame.
Look for the manufacturer's identification plate containing the complete machine model and serial number.
For example:
Manufacturer: Takeuchi
Model: TB290
Serial Number: XXXXXXXX
Takeuchi produces many compact excavator models, and the identification plate may be positioned relatively low on the machine.
Check both sides of the operator's area carefully.
If you're photographing the plate, take one close-up photograph and another wider photograph showing where the plate is located on the machine.
That makes it much easier to find again later.
What If the Excavator Serial Number Plate Is Missing?
A missing identification plate isn't unusual on an older excavator.
Construction machines often have long working lives, and during that time the plate may have been:
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Damaged
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Corroded
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Painted over
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Removed
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Lost during repairs
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Attached to a panel that was replaced
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Made unreadable through wear
If you can't find the plate, don't immediately assume the serial number is lost forever.
Start by carefully inspecting the main machine structure.
Some excavators may also have identification numbers stamped into the frame.
If you've recently purchased the machine, also check any documentation supplied with it.
Useful documents can include:
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Original purchase paperwork
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Previous invoices
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Service records
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Inspection documents
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Fleet records
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Operator documentation
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Auction paperwork
The serial number may have been recorded previously.
What If the Serial Number Is Covered in Paint?
This is common on older excavators that have been refurbished or repainted.
If you can see the outline of an identification plate underneath paint, proceed carefully.
Avoid immediately reaching for a grinder, sanding disc or aggressive abrasive.
You don't want to destroy the stamped or printed information underneath.
Start with the least aggressive method possible.
If some characters are visible, photograph the plate before attempting further cleaning.
How to Read a Faded Excavator Serial Number
Sometimes you've found the correct plate, but the information is barely visible.
Before deciding that it's unreadable, try a few simple techniques.
Clean the Plate
Carefully remove loose dirt, grease and grime with a cloth.
Often the characters are still perfectly readable underneath.
Use a Torch
Don't just shine the light directly at the plate.
Hold the torch at an angle.
Side lighting creates shadows around stamped characters and can make faded numbers much easier to see.
Take Several Photographs
Modern phone cameras can sometimes pick up details that are difficult to see with the naked eye.
Try:
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Photograph with flash
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Photograph without flash
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Torch from the left
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Torch from the right
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Close-up photograph
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Slightly wider photograph
You may find one image makes the characters considerably clearer.
Don't Guess
A 5 can look like an S.
A 0 can look like an O.
An 8 can look like a B.
If you're not sure, record the character as uncertain rather than guessing.
Don't Confuse the Excavator Serial Number With Other Numbers
One of the biggest difficulties when identifying an excavator is the sheer number of labels, numbers and markings found around the machine.
Not every number you find is the machine serial number.
The excavator may have separate identification information relating to:
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Engine
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Cab
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Attachments
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Safety certification
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Emissions information
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Manufacturing information
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Inspection labels
If you're looking for the machine serial number, concentrate on the main identification plate carrying the excavator manufacturer's name and machine model.
If you're unsure, photograph the entire plate.
Don't Rely Solely on the Decals
The model decal on the side of an excavator is a useful starting point.
However, it shouldn't be your only method of identifying the machine.
There are several reasons for this.
Panels Get Replaced
Excavators work in demanding environments.
Doors, covers and body panels can become damaged and be replaced.
Machines Get Repainted
Used construction equipment is frequently repainted before resale.
New decals may be applied afterwards.
Decals Can Be Incorrect
It isn't impossible for the wrong decal to have been fitted at some point during a machine's life.
Decals Don't Identify the Individual Machine
Even when the decal is completely correct, it generally tells you only the model.
The identification plate gives you the individual machine's serial number or PIN.
Buying a Used Excavator? Photograph the Serial Plate
If you're buying a used excavator, make the serial plate part of your inspection.
Take a clear photograph before completing your machine records.
Ideally, record:
Manufacturer
Complete Model
Serial Number / PIN
Year of Manufacture, if shown
This gives you a permanent reference for the machine.
It's especially useful if the excavator is later sent to another site.
Instead of relying on an operator to find the serial number again, you'll already have the information on file.
Keeping Serial Number Records for an Excavator Fleet
If you operate multiple machines, creating a simple equipment database is well worth the effort.
At minimum, record:
| Information | Example |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Volvo |
| Model | EC220EL |
| Serial/PIN | XXXXXXXXX |
| Year | 2018 |
| Fleet Number | EXC-021 |
| Machine Type | Excavator |
You can also attach a photograph of the identification plate to the machine record.
For larger fleets, consider recording the information in your:
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ERP system
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Fleet-management software
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Asset-management system
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Maintenance software
The key is to create one permanent record for each individual machine.
Should I Photograph My Excavator Serial Plate?
Yes.
Even if you've already written the serial number down, we recommend taking a photograph.
A photograph gives you the original information exactly as displayed by the manufacturer.
It also reduces the chance of a transcription error.
For example, someone could accidentally write:
AB01C2345
instead of:
ABO1C2345
A photograph allows the original plate to be checked.
Ideally, take two photographs:
Photo 1 – Close-up
Make sure all of the writing on the plate is clear and in focus.
Photo 2 – Location
Stand further back and take a photograph showing where the identification plate is located on the excavator.
The second image makes finding the plate again much easier.
Frequently Asked Questions About Excavator Serial Numbers
Is the excavator serial number the same as the model number?
No.
The model identifies the type of excavator, while the serial number or PIN identifies the individual machine.
For example:
Model: Komatsu PC210LC-10
Serial Number: XXXXX
Where is the serial number normally located on an excavator?
The exact position depends on the manufacturer and model, but common locations include around the cab, operator's area, upper structure and main frame.
Start around the cab and work systematically around the permanent structure of the machine.
Is a PIN the same as a serial number?
The terminology varies between manufacturers.
PIN means Product Identification Number and is used by some manufacturers as the machine's unique identification number.
Always record the complete identification number exactly as displayed on the manufacturer's plate.
Can I find the serial number from the excavator model?
No. The model alone doesn't tell you the individual machine's serial number.
Thousands of excavators can share the same model designation.
Can I identify an excavator from the serial number?
The combination of manufacturer, full model and serial/PIN provides a strong identification of an individual excavator.
What if my excavator serial plate is missing?
Check the main machine structure for additional stamped identification numbers and review any documentation or service records supplied with the machine.
On an older excavator, the original plate may have been lost, damaged or removed during repairs.
What if my excavator serial number is unreadable?
Clean the plate carefully and try viewing it using side lighting.
Take several close-up photographs from different angles.
Avoid sanding, grinding or aggressively cleaning the plate, as this may permanently destroy the remaining information.
Should I include the letters in my excavator serial number?
Yes.
Record the complete number exactly as shown, including letters, numbers, prefixes and suffixes.
Don't assume that part of the identification number isn't important.
Where is the serial number on a mini excavator?
Mini excavator serial plates are commonly found around the operator's area, cab or canopy and main frame.
Because compact machines have less space, the plate can sometimes be relatively small and easy to overlook.
How to Find Your Excavator Serial Number – Quick Checklist
If you're standing next to the machine now, follow these steps:
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Find the full model number displayed on the machine.
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Check around the cab or operator's area for an identification plate.
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Inspect the upper structure and main frame if you can't immediately find it.
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Look for the manufacturer's name on any plate you find.
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Find the Serial Number, PIN or Product ID shown on the plate.
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Record the complete number, including all letters and numbers.
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Take a clear close-up photograph of the plate.
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Take a second photograph showing where the plate is located.
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Save the information with your machine records.
Once you've done this once, you shouldn't need to search for the serial plate again.
Need Help Finding Your Excavator Serial Number?
Finding the serial number on an excavator is normally straightforward once you know where to look, but the location varies considerably between manufacturers and models.
As a general rule, start around the cab or operator's area, then work around the upper structure and main machine frame.
Look for the manufacturer's identification plate rather than relying solely on the large model decals on the machine.
For Volvo, Hyundai, Doosan, Caterpillar, Bobcat, Komatsu, Kobelco, Case, Kubota and Takeuchi excavators, make sure you record the complete model designation and the full serial number or Product Identification Number (PIN) exactly as shown.
If you're struggling to find the plate, take a few clear photographs of your excavator and contact Pro Construction Parts.
Our team will be happy to point you in the right direction.
About Pro Construction Parts
Pro Construction Parts supplies excavator and construction equipment parts to customers across the UK, USA and worldwide.
We work with machines from leading construction equipment manufacturers including Volvo, Hyundai, Doosan, Caterpillar, Bobcat, Komatsu, Kobelco, Case, Kubota and Takeuchi.
If you need help identifying your excavator, send our team the manufacturer, model, serial number and a clear photograph of the machine identification plate.
