User Guide: Things to Consider When Renting a Skid Loader

Renting a skid loader can be the best business decision you need to make. Skid loaders are compact machines that can maneuver around corners, making them incredibly useful for specific tasks.

This machine can work perfectly on your project. The work duration or a tight budget can make renting a better option compared to buying. Here is a guide that will help you find the best skid loader that will suit your needs.

Understand the Needs of Your Project

As a way to determine the best-suited skid loader for your project, find out how long you will need the unit. Figure out how long it will take to complete your project.  A shorter project with specific needs may mean that you can rent a skid loader model tailored to your particular needs.

You can consider other factors that the skid loader will handle, like the worksite and your budget. A bigger project will need a larger unit and will cost more compared to a smaller project.

Consider the Load Size

The size of the load will determine the size of the skid loader you will need. The best machine to choose is one that has enough horsepower and capacity for the weight of your load. A medium-sized skid loader has a rated operating-capacity (ROC) of about 1300 to 1900 and weighs about 5000 to 6000 pounds.

A variety of jobs are commonly handled by medium-size skid loaders. A larger load size with significant quantities will need a larger skid loader with a large bucket and more horsepower.

Decide on the Right Skid Loader Attachments

Skid loaders are versatile, mainly when used with the right attachments. The attachments can range from stump grinder to auger that allows you to tackle different tasks. Think about the best attachment for your task, and be sure it is compatible with your rental skid loader.

Attachments that offer higher performance, like a cold planner, wheel saw, auger, or trencher, need more horsepower and a higher hydraulic-system. A more powerful attachment gets your job done faster and more efficiently with less downtime.

How High is the Lifting Ability

As you look for the skid loader that will suit your project needs, consider your lifting needs as well. Depending on how high you will need to lift your materials, a vertical lift is most likely the best option for you.

Check the Operator Comfort

When the operator of your skid loader works comfortably, their output will be higher. Comfort will affect the productivity of the machine operator. When choosing a skid loader, consider a more comfortable machine, especially if you plan to use it for a longer period. Invest in features that will make the rider comfortable even on rough terrain. Make the inside environment of the cab comfortable and closed.

Renting vs. Buying a Skid Loader

We encourage you to rent skid loaders unless you are planning on using the unit on each project, 7-8 hours a day. Then it makes more sense to buy the unit, as long as you can also afford the maintenance costs. Renting is the better option since it allows you to keep more capital cash in your pocket and be exposed to next to zero maintenance cost.

Skid loaders are versatile machines that can help you work efficiently on your project. The choice of machine you make depends on the needs of your project. Some skid loaders are more appropriate for certain tasks, and choosing the right one for the right job means higher productivity.  At Vandalia Rental, we help you rent the right equipment so that you can get the job done the right way the first time. Contact us today for your equipment rental needs.