Adding a skid steer loader to your fleet can be a worthwhile investment if you know what size, and brand, to look for. These machines are versatile and easy to transport, and they come in a variety of sizes to match different types of jobs.
Skid steers generally fit into one of three size categories: small frame, medium frame and large frame. Small-frame skid steers are designed to lift lighter loads in tight spaces, while large-frame models can lift upwards of 3,000 pounds and often excel in commercial applications. Most manufacturers offer a wide range of options, so it’s important to determine which size you’ll need before buying or renting.
The first step to choosing a skid steer size for your project is knowing what’s available. To help you decide, we’ve created three skid steer size charts highlighting the most common product offerings from well-known equipment manufacturers.
CASE Skid Steer Sizes
CASE is one of the largest equipment manufacturers in the U.S., and its machines are known for their landscaping and agricultural applications. CASE offers many sizes and attachment options for jobs of any size.
Those with no wheelbase denote compact track loaders.
| CASE Skid Steer Sizes and Specs | |||||
| Model | Rated Operating Capacity | Operating Weight | Engine Power | Wheelbase | Width |
| SR130 | 1,300 lb | 5,000 lb | 49 hp | 0.94 m | 1.52 m |
| SR160B | 1,600 lb | 5,645 lb | 60 hp | 0.94 m | 1.52 m |
| SR175B | 1,750 lb | 6,200 lb | 57 hp | 1.13 m | 1.64 m |
| SV185B | 1,850 lb | 6,570 lb | 60 hp | 1.13 m | 1.64 m |
| SR210B | 2,100 lb | 6,970 lb | 74 hp | 1.13 m | 1.76 m |
| SR240B | 2,400 lb | 7,400 lb | 74 hp | 1.32 m | 1.77 m |
| TR270B | 2,700 lb | 8,200 lb | 74 hp | – | 1.68 m |
| SV280B | 2,800 lb | 8,000 lb | 74 hp | 1.32 m | 1.77 m |
| TR310B | 3,100 lb | 8,880 lb | 74 hp | – | 1.98 m |
| SV340B | 3,400 lb | 9,100 lb | 90 hp | 1.32 m | 1.88 m |
Bobcat Skid Steer Sizes
Bobcat is one of the most well-known skid steer suppliers on the market. It offers a variety of sizing options, from the lightweight S450 to the T870 compact track loader boasting a rated operating capacity (ROC) of 3,650 pounds.
Those with no wheelbase denote compact track loaders.
| Bobcat Skid Steer Sizes and Specs | |||||
| Model | Rated Operating Capacity | Operating Weight | Engine Power | Wheelbase | Width |
| S450 | 1,370 lb | 5,370 lb | 49 hp | 0.9 m | 1.5 m |
| T450 | 1,490 lb | 6,424 lb | 55 hp | – | 1.4 m |
| S510 | 1,790 lb | 6,208 lb | 55 hp | 1.08 m | 1.6 m |
| T550 | 2,027 lb | 7,557 lb | 68 hp | – | 1.7 m |
| S590 | 2,101 lb | 6,765 lb | 68 hp | 1.08 m | 1.7 m |
| T66 | 2,450 lb | 8,927 lb | 74 hp | – | 1.7 m |
| S66 | 2,400 lb | 7,154 lb | 74 hp | 1.13 | 1.7 m |
| S76 | 2,900 lb | 8,615 lb | 74 hp | 1.23 m | 1.8 m |
| T76 | 2,900 lb | 10,250 lb | 74 hp | – | 1.9 m |
| S770 | 3,350 lb | 9,314 lb | 92 hp | 1.23 m | 1.8 m |
CAT Skid Steer Sizes
CAT skid steers are known for their power and versatility. If you’re looking for a machine with a high lifting capacity, a CAT skid steer may suit your needs.
Those with no wheelbase denote compact track loaders.
| CAT Skid Steer Sizes and Specs | |||||
| Model | Rated Operating Capacity | Operating Weight | Engine Power | Wheelbase | Width |
| 226D3 | 1,550 lb | 5,549 lb | 67 hp | 1.05 m | 1.5 m |
| 249D3 | 1,740 lb | 7,831 lb | 67 hp | – | 1.8 m |
| 236D3 | 1,800 lb | 6,567 lb | 74 hp | 1.1 m | 1.7 m |
| 232D3 | 1,900 lb | 6,514 lb | 67 hp | 1.05 m | 1.5 m |
| 259D3 | 2,010 lb | 8,987 lb | 74 hp | – | 1.8 m |
| 279D3 | 2,220 lb | 10,095 lb | 74 hp | – | 2.0 m |
| S62Ds | 2,700 lb | 8,296 lb | 74 hp | 1.25 | 1.7 m |
| 289D3 | 2,890 lb | 10,688 lb | 74 hp | – | 2.0 m |
| 272D3 | 3,450 lb | 9,133 lb | 98 hp | 1.4 m | 1.8 m |
| 299D3 | 3,480 lb | 11,464 lb | 98 hp | – | 1.9 m |
How To Choose the Right Skid Steer Size
Because there are so many sizes and models to choose from, you’ll need to carefully consider your options before buying or renting a skid steer. The following tips can help you make an informed decision when choosing the best skid steer size for your project.
Understand Rated Operating Capacity
Many retailers and manufacturers categorize skid steers based on their ROC. A machine’s ROC is the heaviest load it can lift without tipping over. For most machines, horsepower and total operating weight increase as the ROC increases. If your job requires a high ROC, you’ll likely need a larger skid steer.
Know Your Budget
A project’s budget influences the types and quantities of equipment project owners can purchase, and skid steer sizes are no exception. Larger compact track loaders generally cost more than small-frame skid steers. To help keep a project within budget, you should select the smallest size possible that suits your needs. Choosing a skid steer size that serves many purposes can also save you from paying for extra machines.
Confirm Site Dimensions and Layout
The dimensions and layout of your site are important to consider when choosing the ideal skid steer size. If your job site has a lot of obstacles or tight spaces, you may want to consider a smaller skid steer that can easily maneuver through them. Small-frame skid steers also take up less storage space and can be transported using smaller trailers.
Consider Attachment Options
Skid steers can accommodate various attachments, including buckets, snow blowers, augers, trenchers and pallet forks. Depending on the type of attachment you need, you may need to opt for a larger skid steer to accommodate the extra weight.
Knowing which size skid steer you need ahead of time will help keep your project under budget and on schedule. For further information on skid steer sizes and dimensions, contact a local equipment supplier or request a quote from a rental marketplace.
