How are Loaders Different From Similar Heavy Equipment?
Loader machines have significant overlap with other kinds of earthmoving or materials-moving equipment.
To a layman, bulldozers and wheeled loaders may look alike, but they have different applications. Dirt loaders or payloaders are designed to carry and lift material, while bulldozers push material along the ground. Unlike wheeled loaders, bulldozers can be used to level and grade a site.
Excavators and backhoe loaders both have a scooping arm to dig up and move ground materials, but excavators are single-purpose. Excavators are usually capable of moving much larger loads than a backhoe. They're also better at pivoting – their construction makes rotation faster, more precise, and more flexible (360° for excavators vs 200° or less for backhoes).
Wheel loaders can be fitted with forklift attachments, which can be a good solution when you need to move pallets of material on rough terrain. A proper forklift needs a flat, hard, smooth surface, but it's more compact, more maneuverable, and gives you more precise control to adjust the position of the load.
How Much Does a Front Loader Weigh?
It depends heavily on the type of loader. Small or compact loaders can weigh as little as 2,000 lbs, while the largest loader on the market is 260 tons.
The front loaders on construction sites are usually between 10,000 and 80,000 lbs, but heavy construction can require large loaders with an operating weight over 100,000 lbs.
Types of Loaders
To someone who's new to construction, front loader categories can get kind of confusing. That's because there are a few ways to split up types of loaders. You can divide them by the job-specific equipment that's attached or by the body design that dictates how they move. There's a lot of mixing, matching, and overlap.
Insider shorthand makes it more confusing since it's partly based on how loader equipment has developed over time. In other cases, people use brand names to describe a type of vehicle. "CAT loader" is short for Caterpillar.®
Front Loaders vs Backhoe Loaders (and Other Attachments)
Loader equipment is often called a front loader or front-end loader because it has a scoop or bucket mounted to the front side of the vehicle.
Sometimes the term is used to describe wheel loaders in general, but often "front loader" is used to distinguish single-attachment machines from backhoes.
A backhoe is essentially a front loader that has an excavation arm on the back end. Sometimes you'll hear them called a backhoe loader, but "backhoe" is more common. It's also possible to attach a breaker or hammer to the excavation arm to make hard ground easier to work.
As we said earlier, wheeled loaders often have job-specific equipment that can replace the bucket. As a result, front loader" is sometimes used to describe the earthmoving attachment itself. In many models, it can be replaced by anything from a stump grinder to a grapple.
Compact, Small, Medium, and Large Wheeled Loaders
Loader equipment comes in a range of sizes that serve different purposes. Size is mainly determined by the amount of material it can lift, but the overall vehicle size, horsepower, and lift height usually increase in proportion.
Small and compact loaders have can handle loads of 1-2 cubic yards. They're popular with landscapers but also have applications for construction in tight spaces or small jobs.
Medium wheel loaders are the most popular for general construction with a bucket size of 3-5 cubic yards. They can handle a heavier load than small models (in addition to taking more volume).
Large models with even bigger capacities are used for heavy-duty lifting. They're typically seen in heavy construction projects and industrial settings. They have the most powerful engines.
Wheeled Loaders vs Track Loaders
Wheeled loader or wheel loader is often used to describe bucket loaders or payloaders in general. That's because the first models were based on a tractor, which made them different from vehicles with continuous tracks like bulldozers.
These days, loaders sometimes have tracks (and bulldozers sometimes have wheels), so in addition to the general meaning, "wheeled loader" is also used to distinguish models with tires from models with tracks.
Loaders with wheels travel at higher speeds with better visibility, and they don't tear up paved surfaces the way that tracks tend to. This makes them a favorite for urban construction and jobs with longer transport distances.
But tracks are still around for a reason. They perform better on slopes because they have a lower center of gravity and more surface area for traction. Tracks also don't get bogged down in softer ground the way that tires do.
Skid Loaders vs Wheel Loaders
Just in case that was too easy, "wheel loader" is used in one more context – as a label for loaders that steer like a normal tractor, not like a skid loader.
Wheeled loaders steer like a regular vehicle – the tires turn and push or pull the vehicle forward. As a result, you have a minimum turning radius that limits motion in tight spaces.
Skid loaders – often called skid steers or Bobcats® after the popular brand – turn differently. The tires are fixed facing forward, but the tires on the left and right can be controlled independently. They steer by skidding, usually with one side locked in place and the other side in motion.
This system lets a skid steer operate in extremely tight conditions and turn quickly back and forth "in place." They're made for moving materials within a close radius – they can't lift loads very high and the steering mechanism makes them too slow to transport loads over a distance.
Just like wheel loaders, skid steers may sometimes have tracks instead of wheels.
Track Loaders vs Multi-Terrain Loaders
Speaking of tracks, not all tracks are alike. There are two main types with different applications.
Compact track loaders (CTLs) and multi-terrain loaders look very similar from the outside. The differences are mainly in the undercarriage.
Compact track loaders are less expensive and more common, but they can still sink into terrain that's too soft. They perform better than tires, but the ground should be at least semi-solid, like gravel or clay.
Multi-terrain loaders exert less weight per square inch than a CTL so they're the best bet for extremely soft surfaces, like snow, wet sand, mud, and boggy ground. Their ability to "float" makes them a better choice for lawns or garden beds. They provide the best traction, as well, so they're the safest choice for severe inclines.
How to Safely Operate a Loader
Front-end loaders can be dangerous to the operator and everyone around them without the proper precautions. You need to learn how to avoid tipping or rolling and how to protect the people around you from being hit by the vehicle, struck by the payload, or pinned against another object.
As an OSHA-authorized online training provider, we can help you learn the safety fundamentals for operating a front-end loader. Enroll in our 1-hour online course today!
Last updated February 20th, 2023
Wheel loaders are powerful and versatile heavy machinery that can be found on most construction sites. Fitted with a large bucket on the front, they can also be called front loaders, bucket loaders, or front wheel loaders. They are often used to lift materials and aggregates into rock trucks or articulating dump trucks to transport them around a job site. Wheel loaders can lift almost anything including rubble, gravel, soil, debris, and dirt, depending on the power and bucket capacity.
Wheel loaders are great on a variety of job sites because they come in a range of sizes including mini, compact, and large. They're also extremely maneuverable because of the wheels and articulating body which gives them a tight turning radius. This allows them to be driven over several types of terrain and won't damage finished areas like asphalt and concrete.
Loaders are often seen on construction sites that require land clearing, excavation, road building, or material transportation. Their large buckets are handy for scooping and moving dirt and rocks away from an excavation site and loading them into trucks. The articulated steering allows them to carry much more weight and maneuver on job sites. Loaders are also seen in agriculture and landscaping projects.
Small and compact articulated loaders are popular for landscaping companies and contractors. Choosing a wheel loader with a bucket size of 1 yard is great for these types of jobs, especially since the loader bucket can be replaced with forks, rakes, and stump grinders.
As they are powerful and available in a variety of sizes, they can be better options than other compact earthmoving equipment like compact track loaders, skid steers, and mini excavators, depending on the requirements of the project. These are commonly referred to as compact loaders.
Mid-sized loaders have bucket sizes from 3 to 5 cubic yards and are for moving more materials and heavier material types. Industries that leverage larger wheel loaders with a bucket with a capacity of 6 or yards more include mining, forestry, quarrying, heavy earthmoving, and other heavy-duty projects.
It is always important to choose the right wheel loader for a project. This is typically determined by the requirements of the projects and the nature of the job. With several types of earthmoving equipment, there are some jobs that front loaders are more suited for than others. Choosing the best equipment for your job helps keep your project running efficiently.
For example, wheel loaders are a great equipment choice when a skid steer or compact track loader is too small and the digger on a backhoe is not needed. They're also great when you know the site has lots of open space and will require lots of aggregate moving.
This will allow you to get more use out of the machine and require fewer trips. Planning out where the job is and what the wheel loader needs to do can help direct what size of wheel loader should be rented and which attachments will be needed for the job.
Most wheel loaders are rented by bucket size as it will quickly determine how many yards of material the equipment can efficiently move. It is important to be realistic about what is needed and the size of the work site, but common jobs that these machines can do include clearing rubble and debris, loading dump trucks, and transporting raw materials.
The job of a loader can change if the bucket is swapped out for other attachments. There are a variety of other attachments available for a wheel loader. A few examples are:
With these attachments, the list of things of capabilities for a wheel loader grows, which is why they're such a popular rental option. Equipped with the right accessory, these machines can clear forests and land, move other equipment and heavier materials, remove snow, dig holes, handle waste, and so much more.
Whether you are looking to rent or buy a wheel loader there are a variety of manufacturers and models to consider. Most manufacturers have a wide range of wheel loaders including compact, medium, and large.
RENT WHEEL LOADERSSome companies also make mining loaders that have massive buckets and incredibly powerful engines. Below are a few common manufacturers and models of wheel loaders. You can also read our in-depth comparison of the top wheel loader brands.
Cat offers a wide variety of compact wheel loaders, as well as medium and large-sized ones. These 20 models range in weight from under 10,000 lbs to almost 550,000 lbs. Most of their models are in that compact and medium range, including popular ones like the Cat 908, 914, and 930.
The heaviest Cat wheel loader is the Cat 995 with an operating weight of 540,000 lbs. With a 1,847 hp engine, this machine is used for the heaviest industrial tasks like quarrying and mining. The bucket capacity on this machine is 57 cubic yards.
Now one of the world’s leading suppliers and manufacturers of heavy equipment and the second largest producer of machines, Komatsu is anything but little. Komatsu loaders feature innovative hydraulic power with great drive train technology. Making a variety of loaders from mid-sized up to giant mining wheel loader beats.
They offer three models of mid-sized loaders ranging between 125 and 175 hp, the Komatsu WA200, WA270, and WA320. These are often used for smaller commercial projects. They also have larger models like the WA600 and WA900, common on large-scale, heavy-duty industrial projects.
Known for their large earthmoving equipment like excavators and wheel loaders, Volvo is a well-respected manufacturer with 16 front loader models available. These machines range from 64 hp to 532 and 0.9 cubic yard buckets to 16.6. They're a great brand choice for contractors looking for efficient, reliable, and powerful machines.
A leading global manufacturing company, Wacker Neuson Group is a parent company that develops, produces, and distributes compaction equipment. Since then the company has grown and now has over 50 affiliates and over 12,000 sales and service partners across the globe.
Wacker Neuson offers a variety of articulated wheel loaders and wheel loader attachment tools. Ranging from 47 to 100 hp, all Wacker Neuson wheel loaders offer all-wheel steering for excellent maneuverability, increased payloads, and unmatched machine stability.
Today John Deere is one of the most well-known and globally recognized brands in both agriculture and construction equipment. John Deere manufactures 16 compact, mid-size, and large wheel loaders in a variety of strengths and sizes. These wheel loaders have engines ranging from 61 to 536 hp and bucket capacities ranging from 0.9 to 10 cubic yards.
The operation of any heavy equipment creates a level of hazard. Equipment operators must receive proper training about safe operation and safety protocols. As wheel loaders are used for lifting extremely heavy loads, there are a number of common safety incidents and hazards associated with them.
Lifting heavy loads into a truck adjusts the center of gravity of the loader. The higher the load is lifted the more unstable the machine can become and the danger of tipping increases.
Always transport loads low to the ground for extra stability. When carrying materials down a steep hill, travel in reverse to maintain the equipment’s center of gravity. Never go over the max weight set for a piece of equipment and never lift more than the equipment can handle.
For tipping load limits, you can read our wheel loader spec guide.
While loaders are capable of working on uneven terrain, there is an increase in instability when working on hills or more dangerous terrain like loose rocks or gravel. Be aware of the terrain that equipment is being operated on and consider moving only a half load if it feels unsafe. Any instability can be dangerous. Always take time to survey the worksite before beginning operation.
When operating a loader, be aware of those around the equipment and use all safety protocols to keep the equipment visible. If the backup signal isn’t functioning, get it fixed immediately. Look for people walking under or near the loader bucket or lifting arms before raising or lowering the attachment.
Like with many other equipment types, the history of the wheel loader is not a clear path of one man or company but a collection of discoveries and inventions by a number of people all over the world. In the 1920s, agriculture tractors were fitted with a scoop-shovel mechanism to help scoop and move materials. This is recognized as one of the first times that a machine resembling a wheel loader was used.
The invention of the wheel loader as it is recognized today is credited to Volvo Construction Equipment in 1954. It was originally called the H10 and was based on a tractor with rear-wheel drive. Since then, the wheel loader has been adapted and improved. By the 1960s, more companies started developing wheel loaders.
All adaptations and variations contributed to the end result of the modern wheel loader and new ideas, patents, and adjustments continue to be filed. Caterpillar, Komatsu, and Yanmar all went on to file separate patents for the wheeled loader between 1989 and 2014. The addition of safety devices to prevent slipping improved attachment maneuvering, updated wheel loader design, and engine covers have all been involved in these patents.
A wheel loader is a piece of heavy machinery. They have tractor-like cabs with four large tires and a bucket loader at the front. They are used mainly for scooping and moving materials in the construction, agriculture, or landscaping industries. Wheel loaders can be fitted with a number of other attachments to help diversify the use of the machine.
Like with any equipment, the wheel loader size you need depends on the nature of the project. All loaders are subject to maximum weight restrictions and cubic yard bucket sizes. The first step in choosing any kind of heavy equipment is to know what the equipment needs to do for the project and what the site of the project looks like.
It is also good to ask what kind and size of equipment makes a project the most productive and efficient. It can be more economical and efficient in the long run to rent two or three specialized pieces of equipment instead of renting a general equipment piece for the whole project.
FIND A WHEEL LOADER RENTALIf you need help finding what type of equipment is best for your job call DOZR at 1-844-997-0150 and speak to a team member about your project.
Wheel loaders can be used for a variety of projects and tasks. With so many kinds of attachments, wheel loaders are multi-purpose machines capable of almost anything. Wheel loaders can be used for living and moving material like soil, dirt, rocks, debris, snow, animal feet, sand, woodchips, and more.
A wheel loader could also be fitted with a variety of attachments like augers, brooms, rakes, shovels, pushers, stump grinders, and snow plows.
A wheel loader's lifespan and tires depend on a few factors including the kind of jobs that the equipment is used for as well as the level of maintenance and upkeep.
For example, tires used for quarrying will not last as long as ones driven over grass. It is important to be realistic about the lifestyle your equipment will have and to consider these factors for the wear and tear that equipment will see.
The typical tire can last between 2,000 and 3,500 hours depending on the job type.