Buying a Loader By Type

Loaders are an essential tool for many different industries, including forestry, mining, construction, warehouse work, landscaping, and more. There are many different types of loaders, so it’s important to understand each type in order to select the right one for what you need to do. This quick guide will help you narrow down your options so that you can find a loader that works for you.

Skid-Steer Loaders

This classic loader style has wheels and it’s operated using joysticks that control the right and left sides separately. The ability to control each set of wheels by itself allows the machine to “skid” around the work site, giving you more agility. Skid-steer loaders are a practical choice whenever you need a loader that can navigate around obstacles and make very tight turns.

Wheel Loaders

Wheel loaders are similar to skid-steer loaders, but they operate more like a car with articulated steering. The operator sits high up in the cab, allowing for improved visibility, which is crucial on a busy or cluttered work site. Due to their car-like steering capabilities, these loaders operate very smoothly.

Track Loaders

Track loaders are built with tracks instead of wheels. These tracks help to evenly distribute the full weight of the machine and whatever it’s carrying over a large surface area, so the loader is less likely to tip over. Because of this, these loaders are great for carrying very heavy loads. Additionally, track loaders don’t get mired down as much as loaders with wheels when operating on snow or mud. They also don’t do much damage to the work surface, so they’re great for landscapers.

When you’re ready to check out our amazing stock of new and used loaders for sale, come see us at one of our many Pennsylvania dealership locations to take a look at our inventory. Bobcat® of Pittsburgh/Erie/Indiana County is proud to serve our customers throughout Ohio and West Pennsylvania.