How Much Does a Skid Steer Weigh?

The weight of skid steers varies from types and brands. But typically, the range is between 1,500 - 12,000lbs. The average weight of a full-size skid steer is roughly 7,500lbs. Continue reading and go over some examples of how much the different types of skid steers weigh and a few terms one should be aware of when considering purchasing a skid steer or attachment.

What are the Difference Between Rated Operating Capacity, Tipping Load, And Operating weight?

This is a prevalent question newbie, and veterans ask when looking at a skid steer. Although depending on the manufacture, they also have a slight difference. For the most part, the meaning is very similar. I will go over a quick overview of all three and their meaning.

Tipping Load

The tipping load is the weight the skid steer with the loader arms fully extended can handle on paved level ground before it falls straight on its face. Manufacturers will then take this number and divide it in half to develop the Rated Operating Capacity (ROC). 

Rated Operating Capacity (ROC)

The Rated Operating Capacity is the weight the loader arms can handle at any given height safely. Often referred to as the tipping load, but they are different. It is also important to note that if using a pallet fork or jib boom attachment will lower the rated operating weight because the load is further from the machine and changes the center of gravity.

As mentioned, many variables can change to Rated Operating Capacity, so caution must be taken when approaching those weight limits. 

Operating Weight

The Operating Weight, for the most part, is very similar with all the manufactures of skid steers. It usually includes the machine, fluids, standard bucket, and operator. This will change if counterweights or if different attachments will be used. It's handy information if you plan on towing your skid steer to different jobs.

Few Examples of Full-Size Skid Steer Weights

Some brands that will go over are bobcat, John Deere, and Kubota. They all have very similar weights when it comes down to their respective models. 

Bobcat S64 

Rated Operating Capacity - 2,300 lb

Tipping Load - 4600 lb

Operating Weight - 6974 lb

Kubota SVL 75

Rated Operating Capacity - 3,278 lb

Tipping Load - 6,556 lb

Operating Weight - 9039 lb

John Deere 332G

Rated Operating Capacity - 3,600 lb

Tipping Load - 7,200 lb

Operating Weight - 10,000 lb

The heaviest skid steer sold on the market is the Gehl V420 weighing in at 11,665 pounds with a rated operating capacity of 4,200 pounds.

Mini Skid Steers weights

Mini skid steers weigh in at one-third of the weight of a full-size skid steer. The Weight range for mini skid steers is between 1500 - 4000 pounds, with the average being 3300 pounds. 

The most common mini skid steers brands are Vermeer, Dingo, Toro, Bobcat, Ramrod, and Ditchwitch. They have all have different types and models to choose from and can keep a buyer very busy going through all the specs.

Why do Skid Steers Weigh so Much?

This is a good question since the average car only weighs 4,000 pounds. Most of the weight of the skid steer is in the counterweights of the skid steer. Without the counterweight, the skid steer would be very limited on how much it could lift. Most machines even come with an option to add even more counterweight if the owner would like to make the most out of the Rated Operating Capacity.

Takeaway

I hope this short article gave you a better understanding of the different weight specifications and their meaning. When looking for your next machine or attachments, these weights should be referenced to ensure you're operating safely and efficiently. When transporting a skid steer on a trailer, please reference the Operating weight and the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) to make sure you can transport the skid steer safely.