Skid steer loaders and mini skid steers just might be some of the most versatile pieces of equipment ever devised.
Powerful, compact, and compatible with a wide range of skid steer attachments, they can fit right into job sites, construction, excavation, industrial and agriculture settings, and even in warehouses and distribution.
This is due in part to the fact that most skid steers can be equipped with highly specialized attachments that are purpose-driven to execute specific functions.
This brings up the question – given the costs involved with completing an objective, does it make the most sense to rent or buy new or used skid steer attachments? Here’s a quick breakdown.
Pros and Cons of Rental
Skid steer attachments can be fairly expensive, and renting an attachment for a one-off job may make the most sense, at least in terms of cost.
Renting also means you won’t need to maintain an attachment over the long term or find a place to house it.
However, while renting is cost-effective for one-off jobs, if you need to rent a few times throughout the year, you will quickly run into a situation in which it becomes more affordable (and practical) to buy.
One other potential disadvantage of renting is you don’t know how the attachments have been maintained. There could potentially be debris in the hydraulic lines that you don’t want to introduce into your own skid steer.
Pros and Cons of Used Skid Steer Attachments
Buying used skid steer attachments is a potential middle ground between buying and renting new ones.
Often, you can save substantially by buying used attachments instead of buying new ones, though it will still cost a little more than renting.
When you buy used, you will then need to take responsible maintenance and storage of the attachment upon yourself.
Moreover, if you do decide to buy used attachments instead of renting (or buying new) be sure to thoroughly inspect them before you do so.
Be sure that the moving parts are in good shape and free of excessive wear or corrosion. Inspect hoses and electrical connections for proper fit before you buy to help mitigate your risk.
Pros and Cons of New Skid Steer Attachments
Finally, you always have the option of buying new skid steer attachments instead of renting or buying used ones.
Not only will buying new present you with fresh pride of ownership, but new skid steer attachments come with the peace of mind of buying anything new and may come with a warranty as well.
Operationally, buying new makes the most sense because everything you get will be in new working order. The drawbacks to buying new are upfront cost, and then costs and involvement associated with maintenance and storage.
Where Can You Find Skid Steer Attachments That Will Never Surrender?
There are numerous machinery rental outlets dotted across the country where you can rent skid steers and attachments.
If, however, you are looking to buy the industry’s toughest skid steer attachments, choose Spartan Equipment skid steer and tractor attachments that will Never Surrender.
They produce a wide range of attachments, all made in the United States with American steel, that are highly specialized and manufactured to an incomparable standard of care and quality.
Visit their website, SpartanEquipment.com, for more information or get in touch with them at 1-888-888-1085.
