Upgrading your fleet with a new compact track loader or skid-steer is a big decision.small skid steer loaders are used in a wide variety of applications due to their compact size, flexibility and versatility.
So where do you even start when there's dozens of models out there? Let me walk you through what really matters - and trust me, I've learned this stuff the hard way so hopefully you won't have to.
Why Size Actually Matters More Than You Think
Look, I get it - bigger seems better, right? But with small skid steers, that's not always true. The compact models (we're talking under 50 horsepower here) are absolute game-changers for tight jobsites. Think about trying to maneuver a massive machine through a residential backyard or inside a building that's being renovated. Not happening.
The size and weight of the compact loader you choose should be based on the tasks you need to perform, the weight of attachments you'll be using and the constraints of your worksite. What you really wanna focus on is the rated operating capacity - or ROC as the industry folks call it.
Understanding ROC ratings
Here's something important: the ROC rating is calculated differently for compact track loaders (35% of tipping load) and skid-steer loaders (50% of tipping load), so a compact track loader and skid-steer of the same size class may have different actual capacity ratings. The higher the operating capacity, the heavier the load the machine can manage.
For small frames, you're typically looking at somewhere between 500 and 1,750 pounds. Don't just go by horsepower alone though, that's rookie mistake number one.
Ground Conditions and Machine Selection
Here's something that doesn't get talked about enough - what kind of ground are you working on? Because honestly, this should be like the first question you ask yourself.
The ground conditions at a jobsite directly influence the type of machine you should choose. For soft, uneven terrain, a compact track loader will be a better choice due to its low ground pressure and superior flotation. Conversely, a skid-steer may be more suitable for hard, paved surfaces where ground disturbance is not a concern.
Wheeled skid steers? They're fantastic on hard surfaces - concrete, asphalt, compacted dirt. Fast, efficient, lower upfront cost. But throw them onto muddy ground or loose soil and... well, let's just say you'll be spinning your wheels. Literally.
The ground pressure of a compact loader - measured in pounds per square inch (PSI) - is an important factor when working on sensitive landscapes or in areas where you need to minimize soil disturbance. Compact track loaders have a lighter ground pressure, resulting in better floatation when compared to skid-steers, making them a suitable choice for soft, uneven terrain.
Lift Path: Radial vs Vertical (This One's Actually Important)
There are two main lifting paths, and this is indeed important, depending on what you need to do:
Radial Lift Path Loaders
These loaders have a curved lift path that maximizes lifting power at lower heights. They provide increased reach at truck bed height and increased resolution at the bottom of the lift path for tasks like dumping material over walls, backfilling and loading/unloading flatbed trucks.
Great for:
- Digging and excavation work
- Grading close to the ground
- Loading trucks at medium height
- General dirt work
- Vertical Lift Path Loaders
Featuring a more vertical lift path, these loaders excel in high-reach applications. They offer increased reach at full lift height and increased tip load and ROC, which is ideal for dumping into high-side trucks and lifting and transporting materials like bricks, blocks, sod, etc.
Better for:
- Dumping into high-sided trucks
- Stacking pallets
- Reaching over walls or fences
- Lifting stuff eye-level or higher
I've seen guys buy the wrong type and then struggle for years because they didn't think through their actual daily tasks. Don't be that guy.
Hydraulics: Standard Flow vs High Flow
Hydraulic system determines the types of attachments operators can use as well as the compact loader's overall versatility. Compact loaders can be equipped with standard, high and super-flow hydraulic systems.
Standard flow systems (usually 15-23 gallons per minute) work fine for basic stuff - buckets, forks, basic augers. But if you're planning to run anything heavy-duty like:
- Mulchers
- Cold planers
- Heavy-duty brush cutters
- Some trenchers
You need high flow hydraulics (30-40 gpm or more). The problem? High flow systems add to the cost. So you gotta be honest with yourself about what attachments you'll actually use.
Consider your needs carefully to ensure your hydraulic system will be compatible with the attachments you use most frequently. Not all attachments work with all machines, even if the hydraulic flow matches up.
Engine and Power Considerations
The engine power of a compact track loader or skid-steer is typically measured in horsepower (HP). The compact loader's HP can vary significantly, even among machines of the same size class. Generally, machines with higher horsepower ratings can handle heavier-duty tasks, while lower horsepower models are better suited for lighter applications.
Lower Horsepower (under 50 HP): Smaller, agile machines ideal for landscaping, light construction and residential work.
Medium Horsepower (50-74 HP): Balanced power and agility for moderate construction, excavation and material handling.
Higher Horsepower (above 74 HP): Powerful machines for heavy-duty tasks like excavation, roadwork and operating high-flow attachments.
There are two engine types for this class of equipment: diesel and electric. The advantages of diesel are its familiarity to most users, higher power and torque, longer operating hours, and immediate fuel refill. Electric machines offer different benefits, including reduced emissions, low operating costs and quieter operation.
Operating Weight and Transportation
Something people forget about until it's too late - how are you getting this thing to the jobsite?
The operating weight affects lift capacity and transportation considerations. Choosing the right weight ensures compliance with site regulations and optimal task performance. Small skid steers range from about 3,000 pounds up to maybe 8,000 pounds.
When considering machine size and weight, keep transportation requirements in mind. Larger, heavier models may require a larger truck or trailer to transport between jobsites.
That affects:
- What kind of trailer you need
- Whether your truck can tow it legally
- If you need a CDL (in some states)
- Jobsite weight restrictions
I know a contractor who bought a slightly larger unit without thinking about his trailer capacity. Ended up having to upgrade his whole towing setup. Expensive lesson.
Jobsite Environment and Maneuverability
The dimensions of the worksite, including access points, passageways and interior doorways, can limit the size of your compact track loader or skid-steer. Both compact track loaders and skid-steers offer high maneuverability, making them agile in tight spaces.
Consider the loader's height, width and weight when deciding what machine to purchase. You want a machine that can actually fit through gates, doorways, and navigate around obstacles on your typical jobsites.
Key Specifications to Review
When choosing a compact loader, you'll need to consider whether the specifications of the machine are suitable for the tasks and environments you'll encounter on the job. Here are the critical specs:
Dump Height - The dump height is the maximum height at which the loader bucket can empty its load. The compact loader's dump height is essential to consider for material handling and high-reach applications. Does your work require extended reach – into high truck beds for example?
Bucket Capacity - The bucket capacity indicates the maximum volume of material the bucket can hold. Choosing the right bucket size for your needs is crucial for efficient material handling.
Attachment Considerations
Think about the attachments you'll be using, like buckets, augers, brooms, or pallet forks. Make sure to choose a machine with the appropriate hydraulic flow and lift capacity to handle the attachments you will be using.
Modern attachment mounting systems ensure quick and secure changes, allowing operators to switch between non-hydraulic attachments without leaving the cab. This versatility is one of the main advantages of skid steer loaders.
Track and Tire Options
For Compact Track Loaders
Consider your average jobsite and typical work when choosing tracks. Rubber tracks are highly versatile and excellent for a wide range of applications, providing a smooth ride, superior flotation and minimal ground disturbance. Different tread patterns can be more advantageous for specific kinds of terrain. The width of the track affects flotation and ground pressure, and there are both wide and narrow tracks to choose from.
For Skid-Steer Loaders
There's a variety of tire types available for skid-steers – all with strengths in different terrain, varying flotation and levels of ground pressure.
Pneumatic Tires - These are the most common types of tires found on skid-steer loaders. Pneumatic tires are made of tough rubber and offer good traction for operating on smooth, hard surfaces like concrete or asphalt.
Solid Rubber Tires - Solid rubber tires are designed for harsh environments where punctures and tire damage are common, such as demolition sites or waste management facilities. These tires are puncture-proof and provide excellent durability.
Foam-Filled Pneumatic Tires - These tires offer a compromise between standard pneumatic and solid rubber tires. They are filled with foam, making them puncture-resistant while still providing some of the cushioning benefits of pneumatic tires.
Over-The-Tire (OTT) Tracks - OTT tracks can be added over pneumatic tires. This is a versatile option if you occasionally work on soft or rough terrain but don't want to invest in a dedicated compact track loader.
Cab Comfort and Controls
Gonna be real with you - if your operators are uncomfortable, productivity suffers. Period.
Things worth considering:
- Enclosed cab vs open (weather protection matters)
- AC and heat (especially for long days)
- Visibility (some cabs have better sightlines than others)
- Control type - hand/foot controls vs joystick patterns
- Seat comfort and adjustability
Modern machines have way better ergonomics than older models, but there's still variation between manufacturers.
Maintenance and Serviceability
Compact loaders are designed with easy access to critical components, allowing operators to follow maintenance schedules more easily, which is essential for extending the equipment's lifespan and uptime.
How easy is it to actually maintain the thing? Can you get to the engine compartment without tools? Are the filters accessible? Where are the grease points?
Some machines are designed with daily maintenance in mind - tilt-up cabs, easy-access panels, clear fluid check points. Others... not so much.
Dealer Support
A reputable dealer can make a significant difference in your ownership experience and the long-term value of your purchase. Look for dealerships with a solid track record of excellent customer service, timely maintenance support and readily available parts.
A dealer with a dedicated service department and knowledgeable staff ensures that your compact track loader or skid-steer receives regular maintenance, repairs and any necessary warranty work promptly and efficiently.
You want a dealer that:
- Stocks common parts
- Has trained technicians
- Offers reasonable service response times
- Provides loaner machines when yours is down
A cheaper machine from a dealer with poor support will cost you way more in downtime than a slightly pricier unit from a good dealer.
Technology and Digital Features
Telematics systems are becoming standard and they're actually useful. These systems provide operators with real-time insights into the performance and health of their compact equipment.
Using telematics mobile or desktop apps, you can:
- Monitor your loader's usage metrics
- Receive timely alerts for scheduled maintenance and service needs
- Analyze performance data to optimize machine efficiency
- Track machine hours and location
- Get fault code alerts
Some systems even let you remotely operate the machine for certain tasks, which is wild. This functionality lets operators add and remove features as project needs change, ensuring the right tools are always on hand.
Auto-leveling buckets, ride control, different power modes - these aren't just gimmicks. They can genuinely improve productivity and reduce operator fatigue.
Brand Reputation Matters
Choosing a brand with a strong reputation in the industry provides confidence in the loader's quality, durability and performance. Established brands often have a wide network of dealerships, making it easier to find support and access genuine parts.
Take the time to research and choose a dealer and brand with a reputation for reliable equipment and exceptional customer care to maximize the value and longevity of your compact loader investment.
Warranty Coverage - Read the Fine Print
Choosing a compact track loader or skid-steer with a solid warranty helps protect your investment and ensures that you can rely on the manufacturer's support should any issues arise.
Pay attention to the duration of the warranty and what it covers, including the engine, hydraulic system, electrical components and structural integrity. Some warranties may also include coverage for parts and labor.
Things to check:
- How long is coverage? (1 year? 2 years? More?)
- What's covered? (powertrain? hydraulics? everything?)
- What voids the warranty?
- Is it transferrable if you sell?
Consider the warranty's transferability if you plan to sell the compact loader in the future. A longer warranty period indicates the manufacturer's confidence in the quality and reliability of their product.
Extended warranty options might be worth it depending on how hard you plan to work the machine.
Budget: Initial Cost vs Total Cost of Ownership
Yeah, upfront price matters. But don't forget about:
- Fuel/electricity costs over the machine's life
- Maintenance and repair expenses
- Depreciation rates
- Resale value
- Financing costs if applicable
Many manufacturers offer a variety of financing options and cash rebates to help you get the equipment you need when you need it. There are options for leasing and options to apply for tax deduction programs as well.
Sometimes spending an extra $1K upfront saves you $3K over five years. Run the actual numbers for YOUR situation.
Making an Informed Decision
Not all compact track or skid-steer loaders are built the same. When choosing a compact loader, take time to carefully evaluate your intended use, jobsite conditions and performance requirements in addition to brand reputation, warranties and dealer support.
At the end of the day, there's no "perfect" small skid steer for everyone. It really depends on your specific needs:
- What tasks will you perform most often?
- What's your typical terrain like?
- What attachments do you need to run?
- What's your budget - both upfront and ongoing?
- Do you have the infrastructure to support it (trailer, maintenance facility, etc.)?
Doing the proper research will help you feel more confident in your purchase and ensure you've picked a machine that's tailored to your needs and preferences.