Telehandlers vs. skid steers: which one is right for your job?

Choosing the right equipment for your project can make a huge difference in efficiency, safety, and cost. Telehandlers and skid steers are two of the most commonly used machines in construction, agriculture, and other industries. While both can handle a variety of tasks, they have significant differences that can impact performance based on the job at hand.

This article provides a detailed comparison of telehandlers vs. skid steers, covering their features, benefits, limitations, and ideal applications. If you're trying to decide which machine to invest in or rent for your next project, keep reading for everything you need to know.

What is a telehandler?

A telehandler (short for telescopic handler) is a lifting machine with a long, extendable boom that allows it to reach high places and move materials over obstacles. It is often compared to a forklift, but unlike a forklift, it can extend both upward and outward.

Key features of telehandlers:

• Telescopic boom: The boom can extend forward and upward, allowing it to lift loads at greater heights and distances.

• Multiple attachments: Telehandlers can be fitted with buckets, forks, winches, and platforms, making them highly versatile.

• Stability enhancements: Many telehandlers come with outriggers or stabilizers to improve balance when lifting heavy loads.

• Terrain capability: Built for rough terrains, most telehandlers have large, rugged tires that allow them to operate on uneven surfaces.

• High lifting capacity: They can lift thousands of pounds at once, making them ideal for construction sites and large warehouses.

Best uses for a telehandler:

Telehandlers are versatile machines ideal for various tasks. They excel in lifting heavy materials onto high structures and are invaluable for loading and unloading materials at construction sites. They also handle palletized loads in storage yards efficiently, support masonry work by lifting essential materials. This versatility makes them essential across multiple industries.

Browse our selections of telehandlers

Now, let’s explore another versatile piece of equipment: the skid steer.

What is a skid steer?

A skid steer is a small, highly maneuverable machine with a rigid frame and lift arms that can be fitted with different attachments. It is best known for its ability to turn within its own footprint, making it perfect for jobs in tight spaces.

Key features of skid steers:

• Compact Design: Skid steers are small and can easily navigate confined areas, such as indoor worksites, alleyways, and small yards.

• Multiple Attachments: Like telehandlers, skid steers can be equipped with buckets, augers, trenchers, sweepers, grapples, and hammers to perform different tasks.

• Maneuverability: Thanks to their skid-steering system, they can turn quickly, making them ideal for precision work.

• Two Lift Types:

• Radial Lift: Best for jobs requiring digging or working close to the ground.

• Vertical Lift: Ideal for lifting materials higher, such as loading trucks.

• Easy Transportation: Skid steers are light and easy to transport on trailers, unlike telehandlers which require larger transport vehicles.

Best uses for a skid steer

Skid steers are compact and versatile, ideal for a range of tasks. They excel in excavation and grading for landscaping, loading and transporting materials, and demolition in tight spaces. They're also effective for snow removal in urban settings and precise digging and lifting on construction sites. Given their adaptability, skid steers contrast significantly with telehandlers, which we'll explore next.

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How to choose between a telehandler and a skid steer?

The correct choice depends on the nature of the work, site conditions, and lifting requirements.

Choose a telehandler (telescopic handler) if you need to:

• Lift materials to great heights or over obstacles.

• Work in large sites that provide enough space for maneuvering.

• Carry out heavy-duty tasks in sectors like construction, agriculture, or warehousing.

• Reach difficult-to-access areas and move heavy loads with flexibility.

Choose a skid steer loader if your work requires:

• High maneuverability in tight spaces.

• Performing digging, trenching, leveling, or demolition tasks.

• Working in small sites, urban environments, or indoor areas where compact size is essential.

• Carrying out precise ground work in small projects that demand speed and efficiency.

Understanding the project needs and available space at the work site is essential to making the right decision between a telehandler and a skid steer loader.

Which one is more expensive?

Telehandlers are generally more expensive to purchase, with prices ranging from $80,000 to $200,000 depending on load capacity and specifications. In contrast, skid steer loaders are more economical, typically costing between $25,000 and $70,000.

Rental costs follow a similar pattern:

• Renting a telehandler costs around $250 to $600 per day or $1,500 to $4,500 per month.

• Renting a skid steer loader ranges from $200 to $400 per day or $1,000 to $3,000 per month.

Additionally, telehandlers consume more fuel and require more frequent maintenance, leading to higher operating costs compared to skid steer loaders, which are known for lower maintenance needs and better fuel efficiency.

Can a telehandler replace a skid steer?

Although telehandlers and skid steer loaders share some overlapping capabilities, one cannot fully replace the other.

If your work involves lifting pallets or loading materials at significant heights or maneuvering over obstacles, the telehandler is the better choice.
But if you need to level ground, dig trenches, demolish structures, or work in tight spaces, the skid steer loader is the more practical solution.

In large-scale projects, the two machines often complement each other rather than compete. 

Which one is safer to operate?

Both machines have built-in safety features, but operating risks vary depending on the work environment.

• Telehandlers pose a higher risk of tipping due to their extended booms and heavy loads at height. Operators must ensure proper load distribution, use of stabilizers, and awareness of terrain conditions to prevent accidents.

• Skid steers, while smaller, also have tipping risks if overloaded or improperly maneuvered, especially on uneven ground. However, their low center of gravity makes them more stable than telehandlers in most situations.

Training and proper operator certification are essential for both machines. Telehandler operators need to be particularly cautious when working at height, while skid steer operators must focus on precision and load balance.

Can you use telehandler attachments on a skid steer?

Although some attachments can perform similar functions on both machines, telehandler and skid steer attachments are not fully interchangeable due to differences in mounting systems, hydraulic requirements, and load capacities.

• Telehandler attachments, such as pallet forks, buckets, and cranes, are built to handle higher lifting capacities and extended reach.

• Skid steer attachments, like augers, trenchers, and grapples, are designed for close-to-ground work, reflecting the machine’s role and operating environment.

Some manufacturers offer quick-attach systems that allow for limited compatibility between attachments, but these systems are often restricted to specific models.

If you need a machine with high attachment versatility, the skid steer loader is more flexible, offering a wide range of tools for earthmoving, demolition, and site work. Meanwhile, the telehandler remains more specialized for lifting operations.

Best brands for telehandlers and skid steers

Choosing a reliable brand is crucial for performance, durability, and resale value. Some of the most trusted names in the industry include:

Top Telehandler Brands

1. JLG: Known for high-reach telehandlers with excellent lifting capacity.

2. Manitou: Specializes in agricultural and construction telehandlers.

3. Genie: Offers compact yet powerful telehandlers.

4. CAT: Delivers rugged, durable models with advanced features.

5. Bobcat: Provides versatile, mid-size telehandlers for various industries.

6. JCB: Offers high-performance telehandlers with innovative stabilization technology.

Top Skid Steer Brands

1. Bobcat: The pioneer of skid steers, known for reliability and a vast attachment range.

2. CAT: Offers durable, high-performance models with advanced control systems.

3. John Deere: Produces rugged, operator-friendly skid steers.

4. Case Construction: Provides powerful and fuel-efficient skid steers.

5. New Holland: Known for vertical-lift skid steers with high visibility.

But the question is: which one should you get?

If your work involves lifting heavy loads high off the ground, a telehandler is the best choice. If you need a versatile, maneuverable machine for digging, grading, and small-scale material handling, a skid steer is the better option.

Before making a decision, consider your project needs, worksite space, budget, and long-term usability. Both machines offer unique benefits, and investing in the right one can significantly improve work efficiency and productivity.

For expert recommendations on buying or renting the best heavy machinery, visit makana.com for detailed reviews, pricing insights, and equipment guides.