About the Komatsu WA380
The Komatsu WA380 is a mid-size wheel loader in the 18–21-tonne operating weight class, in production since 2000 and currently in its WA380-8 generation. It is powered by a Komatsu SAA6D114E-6 Tier 4 Final engine producing 198 hp and standard bucket capacity is 3.8 m³. The WA380 is a versatile articulated wheel loader positioned between the smaller WA320 and the larger WA430, making it suitable for a broad range of aggregate handling, construction site logistics, and light earthmoving applications. KOMTRAX telematics is standard from the WA380-7 generation.
Typical applications
The WA380 is a common machine in European aggregate processing plants, construction materials depots, and municipal yards. Dutch and Belgian asphalt mixing plants use it for aggregate stockpile management and cold-mix feeder loading. German construction sites use it as a versatile materials handler for moving precast concrete panels, pallets of materials, and bulk aggregates. Municipal authorities across Benelux use it for road salt spreading in winter maintenance operations with a spreader body attachment. Its fuel efficiency and broad attachment compatibility make it a cost-effective choice for mixed-duty applications.
What to look for when buying used
The WA380's axles are generally robust but inspect the front axle oil for discolouration or metal particles — front axle planetary gear failures can be expensive and are often preceded by contaminated axle oil. Check the articulation joint and steering cylinder condition on machines with high accumulated cycle counts. The engine's air-intake pre-cleaner and air filter element should be inspected — aggregate environments are particularly harsh on air filtration and reduced filter life accelerates engine wear. Request KOMTRAX data to review fuel consumption and idle time: a high idle percentage on a wheel loader often indicates inefficient site operation rather than a machine fault.
Market context
The WA380 competes with the Caterpillar 966M and Volvo L120H. Komatsu's WA380 has historically offered slightly lower residual values than Cat 966M equivalents, making it attractive to price-conscious buyers who prioritise value. The used WA380 market across Benelux and Germany is active, with a healthy supply of well-maintained machines from aggregate producers and construction material distributors. Prices for the 2014–2022 generation are currently at competitive levels, supported by consistent demand from the aggregate and recycling sectors.