Choosing the Right Skid Steer Rental

Since the late 1950s, skid steer loaders have become one of the most popular pieces of equipment on jobsites. These agile, compact machines can load, dig, move, and handle materials in tight spaces. With the right attachments, they can replace larger machines for many jobs. Renting a Cat® skid steer loader gives you reliable performance, flexibility, and dealer support when you need it most.

How to Choose the Best Skid Steer Loader

• Size: Larger models deliver more power and capacity but may not fit small or confined jobsites. Compact units excel where space is limited.
• Lifting mechanism: Radial lift models work well for ground-level jobs like grading. Vertical lift models like Caterpillar’s new lineup of loaders offer higher reach, making them ideal for loading trucks or working above eye level. 
• Cab comfort: Look for a cab that’s easy to enter and exit, offers clear visibility, reduces noise and dust, and has user-friendly controls. Operator comfort also improves safety.
• Attachments: Attachments add huge value. Options include hammers,  mulchers, rakes, cold planers, and saws, to name a few. Match attachments to your applications and make sure they fit the skid steer you rent.
• Other features: Work lights extend hours into the night. Tire type also matters — solid tires resist flats; pneumatic tires offer a smoother ride on uneven ground.

Industries That Rely on Skid Loaders

Today's top skid steers can lift between 2,200 to 3,800 pounds. Compact track loader variants like the Cat 285 can lift more than 6,000 pounds. 

Construction: Skid loaders are versatile for earthmoving, landscaping, cleaning, and material handling. Small models make a good fit for landscaping work. Larger machines handle heavy construction tasks.

Excavating: Large skid loaders excel at grading and moving dirt for roadbuilding or foundations. Smaller units can replace excavators in narrow areas. Always consider space limitations.

Digging and trenching: With backhoe, auger, or trencher attachments, skid loaders handle trenching, cutting pavement, digging drainage, and even trimming roots.

Municipal work: Cities use skid loaders year-round. Snow blades or blowers keep roads and sidewalks clear in winter, while other attachments handle cleanup and maintenance tasks.

Why Rent Skid Steers from The Cat® Rental Store?

The Cat® Rental Store offers a wide selection of skid steer loaders at daily, weekly, or monthly rates. Renting gives you flexibility to meet temporary needs, replace equipment in the shop, or boost your fleet for a busy season. Our dealers help you select the right model and attachments, provide operator training if needed, and handle all maintenance and repair.

Request a quick quote or find a location near you.

Skid Steer Loader FAQs

Q: What size skid loader do I need?

A: Choose based on jobsite space and lifting needs. Smaller models fit tight areas; while larger machines carry more weight.

Q: Why rent instead of buy a skid steer?

A: Renting lowers upfront costs and gives you flexibility to match machines and attachments to each job.

Q: Can I use attachments on a rental skid steer?

A: Yes. A wide range of Cat attachments can be paired with skid steers for tasks from trenching to snow removal.