How Much Does a Skid Steer Weigh? Skid Steer Weight & Dimensions
When you’re shopping for a skid steer or planning to transport one to a job site, weight and size are two of the most important factors to consider. Knowing how much a skid steer weighs and its dimensions can help you choose the right trailer, prevent damage to surfaces, and make sure your machine is compatible with attachments.
In this guide, we’ll break down the average weight of a skid steer, look at a skid steer weight chart, and cover common skid steer dimensions so you know exactly what to expect.
Why Skid Steer Weight and Dimensions Matter
- Transportation requirements: Heavier skid steers need larger trailers and higher tow ratings. Knowing how heavy a skid steer is ensures you stay within safe hauling limits.
- Ground pressure and jobsite access: On delicate surfaces like lawns or gravel, the heavier the machine, the greater the ground disturbance.
- Attachment compatibility: Attachments have their own weight and capacity. The right match depends on your skid steer’s lift capacity and dimensions.
If you’re new to skid steers, check out our comprehensive guide on what a skid steer is before diving into weights and dimensions.
How Much Does a Skid Steer Weigh?
The answer varies depending on size, brand, and features. Skid steers can weigh from 2,500 lbs to over 11,000 lbs. Most fall in the middle range.
Average Weight of a Skid Steer
- Small skid steers (under 1,750 lb operating capacity): 3,000–5,000 lbs
- Medium skid steers (1,750–2,200 lb capacity): 5,500–7,000 lbs
- Large skid steers (over 2,200 lb capacity): 8,000–10,000+ lbs
Mini skid steers weigh 1,500–3,000 lbs. Compact track loaders weigh more due to the undercarriage, typically adding 500–1,000 lbs.
Small Skid Steers
- Weight Range: 2,500–5,000 lbs
- Description: Compact for tight areas, landscaping, and residential work
| Model | Operating Weight | Skid Steer Width |
|---|---|---|
| Kubota SVL50x | ~5,000 lbs | 56 in |
| Bobcat T450 | ~6,424 lbs | 55 in |
| Bobcat S450 | ~5,370 lbs | 58.6 in |
Medium Skid Steers
- Weight Range: 5,500–8,000 lbs
- Description: Balanced power and mobility. Ideal for construction, agriculture, and snow.
| Model | Operating Weight | Skid Steer Width |
|---|---|---|
| John Deere 318P | ~6,542 lbs | 65.2 in |
| Bobcat T595 | ~8,022 lbs | 67 in |
| Cat 259D3 | ~8,987 lbs | 67 in |
Large Skid Steers
- Weight Range: 8,000–11,000+ lbs
- Description: Best for heavy-duty jobs like land clearing and industrial work.
| Model | Operating Weight | Skid Steer Width |
|---|---|---|
| Cat 255 | ~9,573 lbs | 70.9 in |
| Bobcat S76 | ~8,615 lbs | 69 in |
| John Deere 333G | ~12,100 lbs | 80 in |
Skid Steer Weight Chart
| Brand & Model | Operating Weight | Skid Steer Width |
|---|---|---|
| Bobcat S70 (small) | ~2,900 lbs | 35.5 in |
| Caterpillar 226D3 | ~5,849 lbs | 58.9 in |
| John Deere 320G | ~7,150 lbs | 69.3 in |
| Bobcat S850 (large) | ~10,237 lbs | 78 in |
| Gehl V420 (largest) | ~11,665 lbs | 84 in |
Skid Steer Dimensions: How Wide Is a Skid Steer?
- Small: ~36 in – fits through gates, great for residential and landscape work
- Medium: ~60–70 in – ideal balance of power and maneuverability
- Large: ~80+ in – built for high-capacity jobs on open sites
Width affects attachment compatibility and transport. Most skid steers are under 7 ft tall and range from 9 to 12 ft in length.
The Biggest Skid Steer on the Market
Model: Gehl V420
- Operating Weight: ~11,665 lbs
- Rated Operating Capacity: 4,200 lbs
- Engine: 120 hp Deutz
- Size: 84 in wide, over 7 ft tall
This model is built for heavy-duty construction, land clearing, and industrial jobs. It outperforms average skid steers (~7,000 lbs) in lifting power and stability.
Final Thoughts
Understanding skid steer weights and dimensions is essential for safe transport, jobsite access, and matching attachments. The right knowledge ensures optimal performance and helps avoid costly issues.
At Skid Steers Direct, we offer a wide range of attachments built to match your skid steer’s weight, lift, and hydraulic flow. Contact our team to find the perfect fit for your machine.