Buying a used skid steer can be one of the smartest investments for contractors, landscapers, farmers, and owner-operators looking to maximize productivity without paying new-equipment prices. However, choosing the wrong machine can quickly lead to expensive repairs, downtime, and lost revenue.

This guide explains:

1. how to find the best used skid steer for sale

2. what to inspect before buying

3. the best used skid steer brands

4. skid steer ownership costs

5. financing considerations

6. how to avoid common buying mistakes

Whether you are starting a skid steer business or expanding your fleet, understanding what separates a reliable machine from a risky purchase is critical.

Why Used Skid Steers Are in High Demand

Used skid steers remain popular because they offer:

1. lower upfront costs

2. faster ROI

3. lower depreciation

4. affordable fleet expansion

5. strong versatility across industries

Contractors commonly use skid steers for:

1. grading

2. excavation support

3. landscaping

4. snow removal

5. material handling

6. demolition cleanup

7. brush clearing

8. trenching

Many buyers now prefer quality inspected used skid steers because newer equipment prices and financing costs continue rising across the heavy equipment market.

Best Used Skid Steer Brands for Contractors

One of the most searched questions online is:
“What is the best used skid steer brand?”

The answer depends on your workload, budget, and attachment needs.

Best Used Skid Steer Brand Comparison

Bobcat Skid Steers

Bobcat remains one of the most recognized skid steer brands due to:

1. strong resale value

2. widespread dealer support

3. attachment compatibility

4. contractor familiarity

Popular used models:

1. Bobcat S650

2. Bobcat T590

3. Bobcat S770

CAT Skid Steers

CAT skid steers are known for:

1. operator comfort

2. powerful hydraulics

3. durability on demanding job sites

Popular for:

1. grading

2. excavation support

3. heavy construction

Kubota Skid Steers

Kubota machines are often favored by:

1. smaller contractors

2. landscapers

3. property maintenance businesses

They are especially popular for affordability and fuel efficiency.

How to Inspect a Used Skid Steer Before Buying

Used Skid Steer Inspection Checklist

Before purchasing any used skid steer, inspect:

Engine Performance

Check for:

1. hard starting

2. excessive smoke

3. unusual noises

4. oil leaks

Hydraulic System

Hydraulic repairs can become extremely expensive.

Inspect:

1. hydraulic hoses

2. lift response

3. bucket movement

4. leaks

5. hydraulic fluid condition

Tires or Tracks

Undercarriage wear can dramatically increase ownership costs.

Check:

1. tread wear

2. cracked rubber

3. track damage

4. roller wear

5. sprockets

Hour Meter

Low-hour used skid steers often command higher prices, but maintenance history matters more than hours alone.

Attachment Couplers

Ensure attachments connect properly and hydraulics engage smoothly.

Cab & Controls

Inspect:

1. warning lights

2. joysticks

3. seat condition

4. safety systems

5. backup alarms

How Many Hours Is Too Many for a Used Skid Steer?

General Rule of Thumb

A well-maintained skid steer with 5,000 hours can still outperform a poorly maintained machine with only 2,000 hours.

Maintenance records are often more important than the hour meter itself.

Used Skid Steer Ownership Costs

Understanding operating costs helps buyers avoid budget surprises.

Estimated Annual Ownership Costs

Why Used Equipment Often Has Better ROI

Benefits include:

1. lower monthly payments

2. slower depreciation

3. faster break-even point

4. lower insurance costs

For many small contractors, buying a used skid steer provides significantly faster ROI compared to purchasing new equipment.

Compact Track Loader vs Wheeled Skid Steer

Choose a Compact Track Loader If:

1. you work on soft ground

2. you clear land

3. you operate in muddy conditions

Choose a Wheeled Skid Steer If:

1. you work on pavement

2. you need faster travel speed

3. you want lower ownership costs

High-ROI Skid Steer Attachments

Attachments can dramatically expand revenue opportunities without requiring additional machines.

Financing a Used Skid Steer

Many first-time buyers search:

1. used skid steer financing

2. financing heavy equipment

3. affordable skid steer payments

Common Financing Options

Equipment Financing

Allows contractors to spread costs over monthly payments.

Equipment Leasing

Useful for seasonal businesses or fleet flexibility.

Dealer Financing

Often faster and simpler than traditional bank loans.

Business Loans

Can help finance:

1. trailers

2. attachments

3. transport vehicles

4. startup expenses

Boom & Bucket helps contractors explore financing options for inspected used skid steers and compact equipment nationwide.

Real-World Contractor Use Cases

Landscaping Contractors

Often prefer:

1. mid-size wheeled skid steers

2. augers

3. grapple buckets

Excavation Companies

Typically use:

1. higher-horsepower machines

2. compact track loaders

3. trenchers

Snow Removal Businesses

Frequently choose:

1. enclosed cabs

2. snow pushers

3. high-flow hydraulics

Property Maintenance Businesses

Usually prioritize:

1. affordable used skid steers

2. versatile attachments

3. easy transportability

Why Trust Boom & Bucket?

This guide was created using insights from heavy equipment professionals, contractors, and equipment specialists with real-world experience operating, inspecting, transporting, and maintaining skid steers across construction, landscaping, grading, excavation, and land-clearing projects.

Boom & Bucket helps contractors nationwide buy inspected used heavy equipment with transparent listings, financing support, and nationwide shipping solutions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best used skid steer brand?

Bobcat, CAT, Kubota, John Deere, and Takeuchi are among the most trusted used skid steer brands.

How many hours should a used skid steer have?

Many buyers prefer machines under 4,000 hours, although maintenance history matters more than hours alone.

Are used skid steers worth buying?

Yes. Used skid steers often provide better ROI and lower upfront costs compared to new equipment.

What should I inspect before buying a used skid steer?

Always inspect the hydraulics, engine, undercarriage, controls, attachment couplers, and maintenance records.

Should I buy a compact track loader or wheeled skid steer?

Compact track loaders perform better in muddy terrain, while wheeled skid steers are faster and less expensive to maintain.

Conclusion

Finding the best used skid steer for sale requires more than simply comparing prices. Buyers should evaluate machine condition, maintenance history, hydraulic performance, ownership costs, attachment compatibility, and long-term ROI before making a purchase.

Whether you are expanding your fleet, launching a skid steer business, or upgrading existing equipment, purchasing a quality inspected used skid steer can deliver strong long-term value while reducing upfront investment costs.

Boom & Bucket helps contractors nationwide find inspected used skid steers, compact track loaders, financing solutions, and heavy equipment transport services designed to simplify the buying process.