Loaders are a staple on many construction sites, farms, and other industrial settings. Their versatility makes them the ideal piece of equipment in many cases. There are several different types of loaders that offer different functions and attachments. With so many different options for loaders, which type is right for you?  

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Types of Loaders 

Skid Steer 

Skid steers are one of the most popular options for a variety of industries due to their wide range of functions. Skid steers get their name from the skidding motion they make when turning. Smaller skid steers, also known as compact skid steers, can traverse tight areas These are loved by people with horses as they are narrow enough to fit into horse stalls and handle uneven terrain, while larger skid steers can also handle moving and carrying larger loads. Depending on the job, skid steers can also use a variety of attachments to make the job easier. Skid steers can be used for: There are over 60 types of attachments available! New attachments are still coming to market as people find new ways to use these machines 

Wheel Loader 

Also known as bucket loaders, articulating loaders, or front-end loaders, wheel loaders are a larger type of loader that is used for many different tasks on job sites. Wheel loaders are equipped with a bucket in the front for moving materials. Unlike skid steers, wheel loaders turn in the center of the machine with a pivot joint.  the frame turns, not the wheels and off-road trucks. Wheel loaders also come in a variety of sizes to fit the needs of the project. Wheel loaders are most commonly used for: 

  • Road construction 
  • Digging 
  • Moving materials 
  • Carrying heavy loads 
  • Clearing job sites 

Backhoe, Tractor Loader Backhoe (TLB) 

One of the most versatile types of loaders is the backhoe. Having a bucket on the front of the machine and a hoe on the back makes the backhoe unique in the loader world. These were originally built on a farm tractor chassis but have evolved far from that beginning. Backhoes range in size to fit the needs of the project. Smaller backhoes work well for projects that have a limited area for movement, while large backhoes can handle the heavy loads needed for some projects. Backhoes can be used for: 

  • Construction 
  • Removing debris 
  • Digging 
  • Ground clearing 
  • Landscaping 

Bulldozer 

One of the most powerful types of loaders is the bulldozer, also known as a dozer. Unlike other types of loaders that have a bucket as the main attachment to the front of the machine, bulldozers have an upright blade attached to the front. Bulldozers utilize large tracks to traverse tough terrains. Backhoes are most often used for: 

  • Moving debris and other materials 
  • Construction 
  • Grading ground 
  • Landscaping 
  • Demolition 

Each type of loader has its own unique ability that makes it useful across industries. If you are considering purchasing a loader but are unsure which kind of loader to get, hopefully, this blog gives you a better understanding of the 4 most popular types of loaders. No matter which type of loader you have Loader Parts Source is here to help you find the right parts to make any repair. Visit our website today to see the wide range of loader parts that we offer.