Hiring a Skid Steer or Compact Loader in Hawke’s Bay?

In the latest in our product series, we take a look at what a Skid Steer Loader is and compare it with a Compact Pivot-Steer Loader. We explore what both machines can do and how they differ from other types of loader.

Do you want to hire a Skid Steer Loader or Compact Pivot-Steer Loader in Hawke’s Bay? Allways Hire has a wide range of loaders available from Skid Steer Loaders to 10T Hyundai Pivot Steer Loaders. Take a look at our range and get in touch if you would like to book a Loader for hire from either our Napier or Hastings branches.

What is a Skid Steer Loader?

Skid Steer Loader on tracks with the front bucket lowered to scoop up material.

A Skid Steer Loader is a compact machine with four wheels and a bucket on the front. They are referred to as Skid Steer Loaders because with this type of loader the wheels don’t turn, so steering is achieved by adjusting the speed or direction of one side over the other. Some Skid Steer Loaders have tracks rather than wheels (also known as compact track loaders) but the mechanism for turning remains the same.

When the bucket of the Skid Steer Loader is raised, the arms sit on either side of the driver’s cab. This is a noticeable difference with the Skid Steer Loader and reduces visibility for the driver.

What’s the difference between a Compact Pivot-Steer Loader and a Skid Steer Loader?

A compact loader is a small model of wheeled loader that offers many of the same small size advantages as a Skid Steer Loader. Compact loaders do tend to offer greater visibility, capacity, lift height and speed than Skid Steer Loaders.

Where a Skid Steer Loader has a zero-turn capability, a Compact Loader turns using a pivot steer system, or an articulated system, which requires more space for turning.

What is a Skid Steer Loader used for?

Skid Steer Loader with tracks, the bucket is pictured raised and shows how the Skid Steer can be used to lift and move material.

A Skid Steer Loader is used for a wide range of tasks including lifting and moving material from one location to another. This can be achieved by pushing material forwards using the bucket on the front of the Skid Steer Loader, or by using the bucket to pick up and move material. Skid Steer Loaders are very versatile as they can be fitted with a variety of different attachments such as forks, augers, breakers and more.

Skid Steer loaders are incredibly manoeuvrable due to the fact they can be made to turn a complete circle on the spot, by placing one set of wheels (or tracks) into reverse while the other set of wheels (or tracks) is put into forward motion. This means they offer lots of opportunities for moving material in tight spaces.

What is a Compact Pivot-Steer Loader used for?

A Compact Loader is a versatile machine that’s a great choice for moving material across a work site.

A Compact Loader is also used for moving material and is a quick option for moving larger loads of material from one location to another. It’s also a good alternative to a Skid Steer Loader if you’re concerned about protecting the surface you’re working on – for example if you’re working on turf. The way the Skid Steer Loader’s steering works can damage surfaces with its skidding action.

What size of Skid Steer Loaders are available?

Skid Steer Loaders tend to be compact but do come in a range of sizes – with the increase in size and machine weight giving greater capacity to move material. While Skid Steer Loaders tend to be more compact, they make up for a lack of size with their versatility and how effectively they can be steered around a work site.

Hire the right kind of loader for your next Hawke’s Bay job

Whether you’re looking for a Skid Steer Loader, a Compact Loader, or something bigger: Allways Hire has a wide range of loaders available for you to hire in Hawke’s Bay. Contact our team today and we’ll be happy to help you choose the right kind of loader for your next job.