A skid steer is a heavy and strong machine. It is used at all construction sites to lift loads and clear the ground. But before you choose one, you should know its weight. Therefore, in this guide, you will know the weight of different skid steers and their attachments. We also answered your commonly asked questions.
Average Weight of a Skid Steer
When you look at a skid steer, it may seem light weight. But its weight is just like other heavy machines. On average, skid steer weight can vary from 4000 to 10000 pounds. Basically, its weight depends on the type, size and model.
Skid Steer Weight Chart
| Skid Steer Type | Skid Steer Weight in kg | Weight in Pounds |
| Mini Crawler | 980 to 2800 | 2160 to 6,170 |
| Large Wheel | 16500 | 36500 |
| Large Frame | 3175 to 5443 | 7,000 to 12,000 |
| Medium Frame | 2720 to 3100 | 6000 to 7000 |
| Small Frame | 1360 to 2720 | 3000 to 6000 |
Weight According to Skid Steer Types
Tracked / Crawler Skid Steers
In this type of skid steer, you will see rubber tracks instead of wheels. Its weight is Approx. 980 to 2800 kg. Well, tracks help them to move easily in muddy and uneven places. You should use it on sites like forests with dense trees, uneven construction sites etc.
Wheeled Skid Steer
The operating weight of a wheeled skid steer is 4000 kg. Basically, you can use this type of skid steer on flat and solid surfaces. Therefore, it is a good option for evenly surfaced farms and roads. Where you may need to shift feed, tools and raw material from one place to another.
Electric Mini Skid Steer
If you want an eco-friendly environment you must choose electric skid steer. Furthermore, it is a lightweight option for you. Its load capacity is about 200 or 300 kg. Its best use case is indoor narrow spaces like warehouses and small gardens.
Compact or Mini Skid Steer
As you know, skid steers have different models and attachments that can vary their weight. Its average weight is 880 to 1200 kg. You could turn a mini skid steer very easily. Especially, when your work is related to lifting lightweight materials, then it is for you.
Weight According to Skid Steer Sizes
Large Frame Skid Steer
When you work on large scale construction projects you need a high capacity machine. Actually, the operating weight of a large scale machine is 7000 to 10000 pounds. You should buy it to perform your high power requirement tasks. Like, you can break small buildings, dig the earth layer and move heavy stuff.
Small Frame Skid Steer
Small skid steers are most commonly used in tight spaces like in small workshops and warehouses. Basically, they are good to lift light-weight material. You get the average weight of this skid steer from 5,000 to 6,000.
Medium Frame Skid Steer
It is the most commonly used skid steer, from small to large scale sites. The weight of this machine can vary from 6000 to 7000 pounds. This has a powerful engine then a small skid steer. But its lift capacity is less than a large frame skid steer.
Skid Steer Attachment Weight
| Skid Steer Attachment | Weight of Attachment in Pounds |
| Bucket | 450 to 800 |
| Forks | 400 to 500 |
| Trencher | 930 to 1000 |
| Auger | 200 to 500 |
| Grapple | 900 to 1500 |
| Breaker | 150 to 800 |
| Rotary | 1,400 to 2,100 |
| Brush Cutter / Mulcher | 1500 to 2100 |
| Snow Blade | 600 to 850 |
| Broom | 260 |
Skid Steer Operating Weight
Operating weight is the total weight of the machine that is measured when it is in operation. It also contains all the attachments and drivers as well.
You have to know about the weight because it affects the performance and movement of the machine. Each skid steer has its own specification of operating weight that depends on its attachments.
How Much Can a Skid Steer Lift With Forks?
Users also ask: What is skid steer lifting capacity with forks? Forks are the arms or attachments that are connected with the frontal part of the machine. They are the main lifting columns that pick up the load. You may see two types of forks on skid steer: radial lift fork and vertical lift fork.
On average, a skid steer can lift from 1250 to 4000 pounds with forks. But the exact capacity of a machine change with its model, size and design.
What is Skid Steer Weight With Trailer?
You can easily measure the weight of skid steer with a trailer. Because there is a simple formula to calculate it.
- Trailer skid steer = Skid steer weight + Trailer weight + Attachment weight
How to Load a Skid Steer on a Trailer
First of all, you should check the load-bearing capacity of the trailer. If the trailer is good to go, inspect the ramp of the trailer. After that, line up your machine on the ramp. And tie up skid steer with a metal chain. Start your machine and load it slowly.
To Summarize
So, first you should know very well about what size skid steer you need and for which project? Then decide according to your needs and budget. You can discuss with us too. We will offer you a brand new skid steer with any customization if you want. Our factory products are also very affordable and warrantied.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Does a Skid Steer Cost?
Usually, you can buy a skid steer in a price range of $3000 and $20000. We can tell you the exact cost if you share with us specifications, type, purpose and other details of machinery.
What is the Average Life of a Skid Steer?
The average life span of a skid steer is 10 to 12 years. In case of working hours you can use it for 5000 to 8000 hours.
How Wide is a Skid Steer with Tracks?
If you want to know about small frame skid steer, it is about 3 feet. On the other hand, a large one is near to 8 feet.
What is Tipping Load on a Skid Steer?
Tipping load means the heaviest weight a skid steer can lift. It is calculated before its back wheels rise off the ground and it loses balance.
Why is it Called a Skid Steer?
Its name is skid steer because you have to skid the tires of the machine when you turn it. This skidding is produced with both wheels and tracks.
