When it comes to heavy equipment, there are two main types of loaders: skid steer loaders and posi track loaders. Both have their pros and cons, but which one is the right choice for you? In this blog post, we'll outline the differences between these two types of loaders so you can make an informed decision when hiring.

What is a loader?

Let’s backtrack for a minute and quickly answer the question that newbies to the world of construction shouldn’t be afraid to ask. A loader is a piece of machinery that has been designed to lift and shift large quantities of materials - we’re talking soil, gravel, rock, debris, and other solid matter you may want to remove or relocate over the course of a project. Whether you’re performing some DIY landscaping on the weekends or undertaking a large civil construction project, you’ll find that having a loader on hand will make your work a whole lot easier. And when it comes to sourcing a reliable loader, the Wombat Hire team can always help you out with our readily available range.

The low-down on the skid steer loader

Skid steer loaders are the most popular type of loader on the market. They're versatile and can be used for a variety of tasks, from excavating to landscaping. One of the main advantages of skid steer loaders is that they're very manoeuvrable, making them ideal for tight spaces. They also have a wide range of attachments that can be used for different jobs. 

The skid steer loader's main disadvantage is that it doesn't have a lot of ground clearance. This can be a problem when working on uneven terrain. Additionally, skid steer loaders are not as powerful as posi track loaders, so they may not be able to handle heavy loads.

So how does the posi track loader stack up by comparison?

Posi track loaders, on the other hand, are designed for more heavy-duty work. They have tracks instead of wheels, which gives them better traction and stability. This makes them ideal for working in muddy or sandy conditions. Posi track loaders also have a longer reach than skid steer loaders, making them better suited for tasks that require a lot of reach, such as loading dump trucks. 

However, posi track loaders are more expensive than skid steer loaders and they're not as manoeuvrable. Additionally, they require more maintenance than skid steer loaders because their tracks need to be replaced more frequently.

So which loader should you hire?

The answer is going to largely depend on a few key factors such as terrain, available working space, and load requirements. If you’re working in sand or mud, then a posi track would be ideal, however, if you have a limited work area, you may need the advanced manoeuvrability of a skid steer. Based off the conditions of your project, you’ll have to review the decision yourself. 

But if you’re still unsure which is the ideal loader for your project, the best course of action would be to simply pick up the phone and give our team a call. We’re always happy to take the time to go through the finer details of your project, make a recommendation, and provide a competitive obligation-free quote for machinery hire and any other required services.