Groundwork Made Easy

How Skid Steers and Track Loaders Help Arborists Work Smarter

In tree care, the right tools can combine power with precision, no matter the size.

That’s why you may want to consider a skid steer or compact track loader for your next job. These small machines can be a great option for jobs that may require a little more lift and carry with some added versatility depending on what you need for different jobsites.

Skid Steer or Track Loader?

Skid steers and track loaders are built to navigate compact areas, making them invaluable for tree care in residential settings, landscaped spaces, and other locations where larger equipment is impractical or cost-prohibitive. Their ability to pivot easily using either wheels or tracks allows for exceptional maneuverability in tight spots.

In fact, ease of operation is one of the most important things for an arborist to consider when deciding whether a skid steer or track loader is important for a job.

“Arborists should focus on control design and capacity, as these factors are crucial for ensuring efficient and effective use during tree care tasks,” said Nicole Gorsuch, manager of marketing and dealer development for Morbark.

She also suggested that arborists need to consider the quality of a machine more than other operators.

“Arborists typically exert more strain on their equipment than landscapers or dirt movers, making it essential to select robust machines that can withstand demanding conditions,” she said.

Advantages

One of the biggest advantages of skid steers and compact loaders is their compact size, but choosing the right size is critical. Larger machines are ideal for heavy-duty jobs, while smaller, stand-on skid steers are often better suited for residential projects, noted Harry Fleegel, general manager of TNE Distributing, LLC. In fact, some smaller models are compact enough to fit through residential gates, making them especially versatile.

“Site access is a major consideration when it comes to type of machine and size,” he said. “This decision should be primarily based on the majority of the type of properties you work on.”

Attachments can be added based on the job, allowing you to adapt the machine for a variety of settings and needs.

“The standard mini skid steer plate accepts almost all mini skid steer attachments, enhancing their functionality,” Gorsuch added.

Attachments to add to your skid steer or track loader toolbox include pieces for mulching and grapples to tackle various tasks. You can also get attachments for smaller stump grinding jobs.

“Although it may not match the capability of a dedicated stump grinder, it is particularly effective for removing ornamental stumps and shrubs located close to buildings,” Gorsuch said. “Furthermore, using a stump grinder with a mini skid steer presents a lower entry cost as arborists can leverage equipment they already own, making it a cost-effective solution for their tree care needs.”

That said, using a skid steer or track loader does come with potential drawbacks.

Disadvantages

One of the most pressing issues    arborists face is the equipment’s weight limit.

“Operators must be aware of the machine’s limits to avoid overloading,” Gorsuch explained.

Fleegel echoed this sentiment, cautioning operators to avoid exceeding the machine’s weight capacity, as skid steers and other heavy equipment are prone to tipping when overloaded, or when a load is improperly carried.

These machines can also have significant blind spots, requiring operators to remain vigilant about their surroundings.

“Paying close attention to people, employees and other property in work zones should always be on operators’ minds,” he said.

Rent or Buy?

Deciding whether to rent or buy a skid steer or track loader depends on your business needs and budget. Renting is an excellent way to test the equipment’s performance and suitability for your tasks before committing to a large purchase.

“This initial rental phase allows them to assess the machine’s performance and suitability for their specific needs,” Gorsuch said.

For arborists who purchase equipment, the total cost of ownership is often lower than other machinery like chippers or stumpers. Financing options, such as low-interest rates, can make ownership even more appealing.

“The overall cost of ownership is typically lower compared to other equipment like chippers or stumpers, making it a smart choice for many tree care professionals,” Gorsuch said.

Once you buy a skid steer or track loader, it is also imperative to budget some money for maintenance and repair to keep your machine running properly. Regular maintenance, following manufacturer recommendations, helps minimize downtime and extend the machine’s lifespan.

“Properly greased and maintained machines will have less wear and tear over their lifespan,” Fleegel explained. “This results in less downtime or major repairs needed.”

He also pointed out that misuse and abuse are the leading causes of repairs. To avoid these costly mistakes, owners must ensure operators are properly trained and use the equipment correctly.

How to Protect Work Areas

While skid steers and track loaders are highly maneuverable, their turning mechanisms can damage surfaces.

“Due to the fact that both skid loaders and track loaders turn by skidding, they have a high potential of turf damage that will require additional cleanup and repair upon job completion,” Fleegel said.

To prevent damage to the terrain, operators should use protective mats for sensitive areas to support both the equipment and its load.

“Typically, light-duty products excel at building temporary roadways for lighter equipment such as vehicles, skid steers, mini dump trucks, and spider lift cranes,” said Kevin Koberg, strategic sales manager for DICA. “While the load-bearing capacity of light-duty matting is lower, it addresses specific needs and is designed with speed of deployment in mind.”

DICA’s portfolio includes mat options like SlatTrax, offering 100 feet of ground protection for heavy equipment working on potentially sensitive surfaces, and can be adapted to meet a variety of project requirements.

When choosing protective mats, Koberg stressed the importance of considering the weight and type of equipment, condition of the ground, duration of use, specific environmental considerations, and the area of coverage needed.

“Conducting a site survey in advance helps you select ground protection products that work best for your specific needs,” Koberg said. “A survey typically includes an evaluation of the ground conditions and identifies access and staging locations for the work.”

Keep in mind that these mats will require storage space, so consider how to store them when not in use or add them to a trailer alongside your skid steer, compact track loader, and other equipment for the job.

Koberg advises investing in high-quality mats, noting, “High-quality stiffer mats and trax can last 10-plus years. The return on investment gained on these is not worth saving a small amount of money for lower quality mats that lack rigidity.”

Making the Right Choice

Skid steers and compact track loaders can be game changers for arborists, offering versatility and efficiency in various work settings. By carefully evaluating the advantages, disadvantages, and job requirements, you can decide whether these machines are a smart addition to your toolkit. Proper planning, training, and maintenance will ensure you get the most out of your investment.

Recommended Brands for Skid Steers and Compact Loaders

When selecting between skid steers and compact loaders, partnering with a reliable brand can make all the difference. Here are some go-to companies known for their high-quality equipment and industry expertise:

• Avant: Renowned for their innovative and versatile compact loaders.

• Schaffer: Specializes in compact loaders built for tough environments.

• Morbark: Offers rugged machines designed to handle heavy-duty tree care tasks.

• Vermeer: A trusted name in the tree care industry with a range of compact equipment.

• Miniloaders: Provides compact solutions tailored for tight spaces and efficiency.

• Giant Loaders: Known for their durable and powerful compact loaders.

• TNE Distributing: Supplies reliable equipment options with a focus on performance.

• Toro: Delivers user-friendly, versatile skid steers and compact loaders.

• Ditch Witch: Designed for demanding jobsites and built to outperform.