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The main machine used in backhoe construction is a backhoe loader - a tractor fitted with a deep shovel in the front and a backhoe in the back. This type of construction is common in urban areas due to the relatively small size of a backhoe loader.
The Backhoe Loader (or "Digger" in the UK) was invented in the UK by JCB in 1953
Depending on the type of job you are performing a backhoe loader can be an effective piece of equipment. Many excavators currently use both depending on their job.
Vaino J. Holopainen and Roy E. Handy, Jr. are credited with invention of the backhoe loader in July 1947. Holopainen filed a patent for this invention in July of 1948.
An excavator is a large crane with a bucket, and is intended to dig deep into the ground. A skid steer is essentially a miniaturised front-end loader, although other attachments can be added.