In the demolition and construction industry, choosing the right equipment is critical for safety, efficiency, and project success. Two commonly confused machines are long reach excavators and high reach excavators.
While both are designed to extend the working range of standard excavators, they serve very different purposes. Understanding the difference between these machines is essential when planning demolition works, infrastructure projects, or site preparation.
In this guide, we explain the key differences between long reach and high reach excavators, their applications, and when each should be used.
What Is a Long Reach Excavator?
A long reach excavator is designed to extend the horizontal reach of a machine, allowing it to operate over greater distances.
Key characteristics:
- extended boom and arm
- increased horizontal reach
- lower digging force compared to standard excavators
- optimised for distance rather than height
Typical reach:
- up to 18–25 metres (depending on configuration)
Common Applications of Long Reach Excavators
Long reach excavators are ideal for projects where the machine needs to work away from its base position.
They are commonly used for:
- dredging rivers, canals, and waterways
- excavation on slopes or embankments
- working over trenches or voids
- environmental and remediation works
- demolition in hard-to-access horizontal areas
These machines allow operators to work safely without positioning equipment too close to unstable ground or water.
What Is a High Reach Excavator?
A high reach excavator is specifically designed for vertical demolition, allowing operators to safely demolish structures from height.
Key characteristics:
- reinforced boom designed for vertical reach
- ability to operate at significant heights
- specialised demolition attachments (e.g. shears, pulverisers)
- enhanced stability and counterweight systems
Typical reach:
- 20–40+ metres vertically (depending on machine size)
Common Applications of High Reach Excavators
High reach excavators are primarily used in demolition projects involving tall structures.
They are ideal for:
- demolition of multi-storey buildings
- structural demolition of high-rise structures
- dismantling concrete and steel at height
- urban demolition projects
These machines allow controlled demolition from the top down, improving safety and precision.
Key Differences Between Long Reach and High Reach Excavators
While both machines extend reach, their design and purpose are completely different.
1. Direction of Reach
Long Reach Excavator:
- Designed for horizontal reach
- Works across distances
High Reach Excavator:
- Designed for vertical reach
- Works at height
2. Primary Function
Long Reach:
- excavation and dredging
- working over obstacles
High Reach:
- structural demolition
- top-down building removal
3. Attachments Used
Long Reach Excavators:
- buckets
- dredging tools
- light demolition attachments
High Reach Excavators:
- hydraulic shears
- concrete pulverisers
- demolition grapples
High reach machines are built to handle heavier demolition attachments.
4. Structural Design
Long Reach:
- lighter boom design
- optimised for reach and flexibility
High Reach:
- heavily reinforced boom
- designed to handle high loads at height
- includes additional counterweights for stability
5. Safety Considerations
Long Reach:
- reduces risk when working over water or unstable ground
High Reach:
- reduces risk when demolishing tall structures
- allows operators to stay at ground level
Both machines improve safety — but in different ways.
When Should You Use a Long Reach Excavator?
Choose a long reach excavator when your project involves:
- working over water or soft ground
- excavation at distance
- environmental or remediation works
- accessing hard-to-reach horizontal areas
These machines are best suited for civil, environmental, and infrastructure projects.
When Should You Use a High Reach Excavator?
A high reach excavator is the right choice for:
- demolishing multi-storey buildings
- structural demolition in urban areas
- projects requiring controlled top-down demolition
- working with heavy demolition attachments
These machines are essential for safe and efficient vertical demolition.
Can Both Machines Be Used on the Same Project?
Yes – on complex demolition projects, both machines may be used together.
For example:
- a high reach excavator may demolish upper levels of a structure
- a standard or long reach excavator may handle lower-level demolition, debris removal, or site clearing
Using the right combination of equipment improves efficiency, safety, and project timelines.
Why Equipment Selection Matters in Demolition
Choosing the wrong machine for a project can lead to:
- safety risks
- reduced efficiency
- increased costs
- project delays
Understanding the differences between long reach and high reach excavators ensures the right equipment is selected for each task.
The Role of Specialist Demolition Contractors
Experienced demolition contractors understand how to:
- select the right machinery for each project
- combine different equipment types effectively
- operate safely in complex environments
- deliver efficient demolition solutions
This expertise is critical for projects involving large structures, confined spaces, or challenging site conditions.
While long reach and high reach excavators may appear similar, they serve very different purposes in construction and demolition.
- Long reach excavators are designed for horizontal reach and are ideal for excavation, dredging, and environmental works.
- High reach excavators are built for vertical demolition and are essential for safely dismantling tall structures.
Understanding these differences helps ensure the right equipment is used, improving both safety and project outcomes.
Perfect Contracting acknowledges the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Isander people as Traditional Custodians of the country on which we live and work. We pay our respects to the Traditional Custodians and Elders past, present and future, and honour their connection to the land and ongoing contribution to society.