You've been thinking about getting a skid steer, a piece of heavy equipment, to handle some of the tougher jobs around your property, but you're not sure if it'll fit in your budget. But how much does a skid steer cost on average? What features raise or lower the price? Here at The Trade Table, we'll break down the major factors that influence skid steer prices so you know what to expect as you shop for the right model.
TM Manufacturing Pro 2 Log Splitter Skid Steer Attachment | 24”, 30” or 36” Stroke
$5,395.00
TM Manufacturing Pro 2 Log Splitter Skid Steer Attachment | 24”, 30” or 36” Stroke The TM Pro 2 Splitter (Patent # 9662801) revolutionizes splitting wood. This splitter ranges in stroke length from 24-36” with 4.5-5” cylinders, with a viewing window… read more
Average Cost of a New Skid Steer
Smaller Models
If you only need a skid steer for occasional light-duty use, you can probably get by with one of the smaller models that start around $20,000 to $30,000. These typically have engines in the 45 to 65 horsepower range and basic features. They'll work fine for minor yard work and property maintenance but may struggle with more demanding tasks.
Mid-Size Models
For most small to mid-size jobs, a skid steer in the $30,000 to $45,000 range is a good place to start. These models usually have 65 to 85-horsepower engines and a decent set of features like air conditioning, a sealed cab, and hydraulic quick couplers. This size range hits the sweet spot for many homeowners and small contractors.
Larger Commercial-Grade Models
If you need a skid steer for commercial use or plan to put in some serious hours, you'll want to look at models $45,000 and up. These heavy-duty machines have 85 horsepower or more and are built to take continuous punishment. They provide amenities for operator comfort like deluxe seats, and options for high-flow hydraulics and larger bucket attachments. While pricey, these skid steers are an investment that can pay off through increased productivity and dependability.
TM Manufacturing Spade Blade Skid Steer Attachment
$1,795.00
TM Manufacturing Spade Blade Skid Steer Attachment Transform your skid loader into a high performance digging machine with the TM Spade Blade. This skid steer attachment can be used to excavate rocks, stumps, and trees with ease. The spade blade… read more
Factors That Influence Skid Steer Prices
Several factors determine how much you’ll pay for a skid steer. The biggest influences are size, age, features, and brand.
Size
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Skid steers come in a range of sizes, from compact models up to heavy-duty machines. The larger the skid steer, the higher the price tag. Compact skid steers, suitable for residential use, typically start around $20,000 to $30,000. Mid-size and full-size skid steers, good for commercial use, usually range from $30,000 up to $60,000 or more for the largest models.
Age and Hours
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The age and number of hours on a used skid steer significantly impact its price. New skid steers depreciate quickly. After just the first year, a machine could lose 10-15% of its value. If it has high operating hours, the depreciation is even steeper. When shopping for used skid steers, look for machines that are 5 years old or less with under 2,000 hours for the best value.
Features
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Optional features like enclosed cabs, heat and A/C, and higher-capacity engines increase the overall price. These options are where dealers can make the most profit. Assess whether pricier features would actually benefit your needs or if a lower-cost model would work just as well.
Brand
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Skid steer brands are not all equal when it comes to price. Premium brands like Bobcat, John Deere, and Caterpillar typically command higher prices, both new and used, compared to lesser-known brands. However, brand name alone does not determine quality or reliability. Do some research on various brands to determine if a premium brand is worth the added cost for your needs.
Loflin Fabrication Skid Steer Pallet Fork Frame
$502.00
Loflin Fabrication Skid Steer Pallet Fork Frame Effortlessly handle palletized materials with the Loflin Fabrication Standard Skid Steer Pallet Forks Frame. This American-made attachment, designed for skid steer loaders, empowers construction crews, warehouse workers, and property owners to manage pallet handling tasks with unmatched efficiency… read more
Buying Used vs New Skid Steers
Buying a used skid steer can save you a ton of money upfront compared to a new model. However, used machines typically don’t come with a warranty and may need expensive repairs down the road. It’s a trade-off between lower initial cost versus reliability and peace of mind.
Used Skid Steers: Lower Price, Higher Risk
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Used skid steers that are 3-5 years old can cost 30-50% less than a comparable new model. The older the machine, the lower the price. However, the risk of expensive repairs also increases significantly after the first few years of use. With no warranty, you’re on the hook for any issues. Make sure to thoroughly inspect any used skid steer before purchasing. Look for signs of heavy use or abuse which could mean costly fixes in the future.
New Skid Steers: Higher Price, Lower Risk
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While the sticker price may be intimidating, new skid steers come with the security of a warranty and you know its service history. Over time, a new skid steer may end up costing less than a used model once you factor in repair and downtime costs. New machines also have the latest features and technology which could make you more productive. If you plan to keep the skid steer for many years, a new model is probably your best investment.
For many small contractors, the choice comes down to your budget and risk tolerance. If cost is a concern but you want to minimize the chance of expensive repairs, consider a “certified pre-owned” machine from a dealer. These go through rigorous inspections and reconditioning and often come with a short-term warranty. While not as cheap as a private seller, certified pre-owned skid steers offer a good compromise between new and used.
Loflin Fabrication Mini Skid Steer Auger
$3,566.00
Loflin Fabrication Mini Skid Steer Auger Powder coated finish for durability Auburn planetary drive Comes equipped with Parker brand hoses, fittings, and couplers (Jobsite ready) Industry standard 2″ hex output shaft Bits are available and in stock from 4″ to… read more
Operating Costs and Maintenance
Operating a skid steer comes with ongoing costs to keep in mind. Fuel, repairs, and maintenance will make up the bulk of your operating budget.
Fuel
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Skid steers can run on diesel or gasoline, depending on the model. Diesel engines typically provide more power but cost more to fuel up. Expect to pay between $3 to $5 per gallon for off-road diesel or regular gasoline. The exact amount will depend on the capacity of your skid steer's fuel tank and current fuel prices in your area. Run time on a full tank can range from 4 to 8 hours depending on the size of the machine and workload.
Repairs and Maintenance
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Routine repairs and maintenance are required to keep your skid steer running safely and efficiently. Things like oil changes, filter replacements, tire rotations, and brake inspections should be done regularly according to the recommendations in your owner's manual. More significant repairs like hydraulic hose replacements or engine overhauls can cost $500 to $3,000 or more, depending on the specific work needed. It's a good idea to set aside at least 10% of a skid steer's purchase price each year for unforeseen repairs.
Additional Costs
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Don't forget the additional costs for things like storage, licensing, and insurance. You'll need a safe place to park your skid steer, typically a garage or shed. Licensing and registration fees vary by state but average $50 to $200 per year. Insurance costs around $600 to $1,200 annually for a $20,000 to $40,000 skid steer.
Keeping a handle on all operating and maintenance costs will help ensure your skid steer investment pays off in the long run. By properly caring for your machine, it should provide many years of reliable service and performance.
Loflin Fabrication Rock Bucket
$1,228.00
Loflin Fabrication Rock Bucket Allows dirt to fall through (great for sifting and sorting material) Constructed from 3⁄8” thick steel 33⁄8” tine spacing and wider spacing available (no less than 3″) We stock sizes: 60″, 66″, 72″, 78″, and 84″ Treaded… read more
How Much Does a Skid Steer Cost
Bottom line, skid steers don't come cheap. But if you need a versatile machine to get the tough jobs done around your property or work site, the price may well be worth it. Just be sure to do your research, set a realistic budget, and look for a quality used model if a new skid steer is out of reach financially. With the right research and shopping, you can likely find an affordable skid steer that'll serve you well for years. And nothing beats the convenience and productivity of having your skid steer on hand whenever you need it.
