Sometimes referred to as wheel loaders, mini loaders or tracked loaders, skid steers are generally 4 wheeled machines with arms attached to a bucket for lifting dirt, rubble and materials. The main difference between skid steers and loaders is the cabin. Most loaders will not feature a cabin or seat for the operator. While a skid steer will generally have a full operator's cabin to control the machine from.
Part of the reason skid steer hire is so popular is the ease of use and access and skid steer brings. Because they're smaller than excavators and larger loaders, skid steers are able to access tighter work areas and can navigate across work sites with ease. They're also quicker than most larger machines, which makes them a better option for moving small to medium amounts of rubble. Compared to larger machines, which can do large loads each time, but can only travel slowly across the worksite.
As with most heavy machinery, hire companies will offer a range of skid steer hire options for you to choose from. With different makes and models available, there are a number of different things you can choose from, including things like torque, max speed, bucket size, wheeled versus tracked, and even the cabin extras.
Of course, you will also need to consider how long you need to hire your skid steer for as well. Most hire companies will offer a number of hire lengths. So you can tailor your package to suit your needs. While some may offer short-term, 4 hour hire, you'll generally find the shortest hire term is a day.
If you're hiring a skid steer for some backyard DIY or you simply don't usually have a skid steer in your machinery fleet, you may want to ask about transport options as well. Skid steers are too large and bulky for most standard trailers, so specialised machinery trailers are required to transport them. Many hire companies will include trailer hire or drop-off and pickup as part of the price. But double check with them before you confirm hiring just to be sure.
Not sure what skid steer is right for your job? Then simply ask your chosen hire company. These specialists are experts with the machines they offer to hire and are able to give advice on what makes and models are right for your needs. They can even suggest which attachments or buckets may suit your work best.
Whether you're hiring for a one-off backyard project or need a skid steer for a long-term commercial construction site, there are skid steer hire options available in your region.