Devon-based CJH Contracting has invested in two new Yanmar carriers – the C30R-3 and C08 – to work alongside its SV26 excavator, creating a complete fleet that offers year-round performance, self-sufficiency and smart branding.

For Chris Hore, owner of CJH Contracting, Yanmar Compact Equipment (Yanmar) has become a trusted name over the years. After nearly two decades building his Devon-based business from the ground up, he knows the value of reliable machinery – especially when working across steep sites, tight schedules and tough terrain.

A fleet built on experience

Based near Exeter, CJH Contracting operates across the region, tackling everything from fencing and drainage to full-scale site preparation and final landscaping. Until recently, the company relied on a mix of hired equipment alongside a Yanmar SV26 conventional tail swing excavator – a 2,740 kg machine known for its power, stability, and compact footprint.

After years of positive experiences with the brand, including hiring through D&H Plant Hire in Cullompton, Chris decided to invest in two new Yanmar models: the C30R-3 tracked carrier (2,650 kg), built for manoeuvrability on soft or uneven ground, and the C08 Hi-Tip tracked dumper (669–765 kg, depending on configuration), ideal for compact sites and efficient material handling.

All three Yanmar machines were supplied by local dealer Machine Serve in Chulmleigh, who specialise in selling and servicing plant and agricultural machinery for the whole of the UK’s South-West, and is responsible for providing parts, maintenance and repair services to CJH Contracting. “I’ve had the digger for a while now and I love it,” Chris explains. “But for years I had to hire in dumpers. Now I’ve got the whole package – and it’s all light enough to move myself without needing transport.”

One of the biggest advantages, he says, is mobility. With all three Yanmar machines falling within manageable towing weights, Chris can transport everything himself – removing the need for hauliers and giving him complete control over timings, logistics and site access.

Fit for purpose

CJH Contracting covers a broad spectrum of projects, ranging from agricultural and barn conversions to new builds and bridge replacements. On a current 6-month job near South Molton, the machines face steep banks, turfing work and challenging winter weather. The tracked dumpers have quickly proven their worth.

“We’ve used wheel dumpers before, which are great in the dry; but they can sometimes spin and churn up ground when it’s wet. The Yanmar tracked machines are all-terrain, all-year-round. They’ve made a huge difference.”

Chris originally chose Yanmar after noticing the SV26 had a wider footprint than rival machines – ideal for heavier attachments like post bangers and tree shears. That, combined with good experiences hiring from D&H and strong service from Machine Serve, sealed the deal. “Phil at Machine Serve is brilliant. He’s sorted nearly every attachment I’ve got – even out of hours.”

Built to work

Each machine has been specified to maximise output. The SV26 includes extras like check valves, auto idle and a Scandinavian tilt bucket – ideal for shaping sloped terrain. “We were building up levels by 14 feet. With the tilt bucket, I could track along the slope and shape it just right for future maintenance. Without it, the job would’ve been nearly impossible.”

The SV26 is also finished in sleek black with yellow decals, creating a striking visual identity on site. Extra lighting allows work to continue through dark winter afternoons – saving up to 40 hours in a single month. “I’ve always said if you’re going to do something, do it properly. The lights let us keep going after 3pm – and that adds up.”

Since Christmas, CJH Contracting has added five new tools including a rotavator and pallet forks – allowing more jobs to be completed in-house, more efficiently, and without relying on hired gear. And while Chris says the fleet is “complete” for now, there’s one machine that continues to tempt him.

“I’ve always had a soft spot for the SV60. Every time Phil has one in the yard, I find myself drawn to it like a magnet and wandering over for a look… Never say never.”