How Much Can a Skid Steer Lift? Understanding Lift Capacity and Limits
Whether you're running a compact loader on a tight jobsite or handling heavy material in the field, knowing how much your skid steer can safely lift isn’t just useful, it’s critical. Lift too much, and you risk tipping the machine. Play it too safe, and you leave productivity on the table. The key is understanding what lift capacity numbers really mean and how they apply to your setup.
That’s because a skid steer’s lift capacity isn’t just a number stamped on a spec sheet. It depends on things like machine size, attachments, weight distribution, and even the terrain you're working on. In this guide, we’ll break down what lift capacity really means, how it’s calculated, and what affects it in real-world conditions, so you can make smarter decisions on every jobsite.
What Does "Lift Capacity" Really Mean?
When you hear terms like skid steer lift capacity or Bobcat lift capacity, they’re usually referring to something called the Rated Operating Capacity (ROC). This is the maximum weight a skid steer can lift safely and consistently without compromising stability. It’s typically set at 50% of the machine’s tipping load, which is the point where the rear wheels begin to lift off the ground.
For example, if a skid loader has a tipping load of 5,000 pounds, its rated lift capacity is around 2,500 pounds. This conservative limit helps ensure safe operation, especially when lifting materials at full height or on uneven terrain.
Some operators may look at the tipping load and think the machine can handle more, and while that might be technically true in perfect conditions, it’s not safe or recommended. Understanding your skid steer’s lifting capacity is about more than raw numbers; it’s about knowing what your machine can handle day in and day out without risking rollover, mechanical failure, or operator injury.
Typical Skid Steer Lift Capacities (By Machine Size)
So, how much weight can a skid steer lift? That depends on the size and design of the machine. Below are general capacity ranges for different classes of skid steers, from compact models to heavy-duty loaders:
Skid Steer Lift Capacity by Size:
-
Small Skid Steers (under 50 hp):
Rated lift capacity: 1,250 – 1,750 lbs
Ideal for: Landscaping, light material handling, tight access jobs -
Mid-Size Skid Steers (50–70 hp):
Rated lift capacity: 1,800 – 2,700 lbs
Ideal for: Construction, utility work, agriculture -
Large Skid Steers (70+ hp):
Rated lift capacity: 2,800 – 4,000+ lbs
Ideal for: Heavy lifting, roadwork, demolition, and industrial jobs
Whether you're running a Bobcat, CAT, Kubota, or other skid steer brand, it's important to check the operator manual or manufacturer specs to find the exact lifting capacity of your machine.
Skid Steer Lift Capacity Chart
| Brand & Model | Machine Size | Horsepower (HP) | ROC (lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bobcat S70 | Small / Compact | 23.5 HP | 760 lbs |
| Bobcat S590 | Mid-Size | 66 HP | 2,000 lbs |
| Bobcat S850 | Large / Heavy-Duty | 100 HP | 3,950 lbs |
| CAT 226D3 | Mid-Size | 67 HP | 1,550 lbs |
| CAT 262D3 | Mid/Large | 74 HP | 2,700 lbs |
| CAT 272D3 XE | Large / Heavy-Duty | 110 HP | 3,700 lbs |
| Kubota SSV65 | Mid-Size | 64 HP | 1,950 lbs |
| Kubota SSV75 | Mid/Large | 74 HP | 2,690 lbs |
| John Deere 316GR | Mid-Size | 61 HP | 1,550 lbs |
| John Deere 330G | Large / Heavy-Duty | 91.2 HP | 3,000 lbs |
What Can Affects How Much a Skid Steer Lift?
The skid steer lifting capacity listed on the spec sheet is only part of the story. Real-world performance can vary based on several factors and if you're not accounting for them, you could easily overload your machine or underperform on the job.
Here’s what really affects how much a skid steer can lift:
1. Attachment Weight
Every bucket, grapple, or pallet fork you add takes up part of your rated lift capacity. A 400-lb attachment on a machine rated for 2,500 lbs leaves you with only 2,100 lbs of usable lifting power.
2. Load Placement (Center of Gravity)
The farther forward or higher you lift, the more leverage the load has on your machine, reducing lift stability. Always center heavy loads as close to the machine as possible.
3. Tracks vs. Tires
Tracked skid steers generally offer better stability and flotation on uneven terrain, allowing for more confident lifting. Wheeled models may struggle with lift capacity on loose or sloped surfaces.
4. Counterweights
Some skid steers allow optional counterweights, which help improve balance and increase usable lift capacity. These can be a smart add-on for frequent heavy lifting.
5. Lift Arm Design
Vertical-lift machines maintain better stability at full height, making them better suited for loading trucks and stacking pallets. Radial-lift machines perform well for digging or ground-level work, but may lose some lift at height.
6. Terrain and Conditions
Wet, soft, or uneven ground reduces traction and balance, both of which limit safe lifting. Even a powerful machine can't perform well without a solid base.
Vertical vs. Radial Lift, Does It Matter?
Yes, the type of lift arm your skid steer uses can absolutely affect how much it can lift, especially at full height.
Vertical Lift
- More stability at full height
- Higher lift reach and dump clearance
- Better performance for pallet work, truck loading, and material handling
A vertical lift model will typically outperform a radial one with the same horsepower.
Radial Lift
- Improves forward reach at mid-lift height
- Makes them ideal for grading, digging, and low-height material handling
- Often comes with a lower price point and fewer moving parts
While both designs offer strong lifting capacity, vertical lift machines are generally better for lifting at height, while radial-lift models shine closer to the ground.
Lift Smarter, Work Safer
Knowing your skid steer’s lift capacity is essential for working safely and efficiently. Remember: the Rated Operating Capacity isn’t just a guideline, it’s the number that protects your equipment, your jobsite, and your crew.
From attachment weight and machine size to terrain and lift arm design, many factors influence how much a skid steer can lift in real-world conditions. Take the time to understand your machine’s specs, know your working limits, and choose the right equipment for the job.
Need Help Choosing the Right Skid Steer or Attachment? At Skid Steers Direct, we’re here to help you find the perfect machine for your lifting needs, whether you’re hauling heavy pallets or grading a tight backyard lot. Reach out to our team, or browse our full lineup of skid steer attachments and equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the lifting capacity of a Bobcat?
The Bobcat lift capacity varies by model:
- A compact Bobcat S70 can lift around 760 lbs
- A mid-size Bobcat S590 lifts up to 2,000 lbs
- A large Bobcat S850 lifts up to 3,950 lbs
Always refer to the model's ROC for safe operating limits.
Can I increase my skid steer’s lift capacity?
You can slightly improve skid steer lifting capacity by adding counterweights or using a vertical-lift model, but the safest approach is choosing the right machine for your workload. Never exceed the ROC, even with modifications.
Does the attachment affect how much my skid steer can lift?
Yes. Every attachment (bucket, forks, grapple, etc.) has weight and that weight reduces your usable lifting capacity. For example, if your machine is rated at 2,500 lbs and your bucket weighs 400 lbs, you can safely lift only 2,100 lbs of material.
How do I find my skid loader’s lift capacity?
Check the manufacturer’s specifications, either on the machine’s data plate, in the operator’s manual, or on the brand’s official website. Look for the Rated Operating Capacity (ROC).