spread in the U.S. market for much more than a decade. Buying new will give you access to more variety. FINAL THOUGHTS Miniloaders are transforming the tree care industry in the U.S., just as they have in Europe since the 1990s. Their small size, maneuverability, and wheel-based design have made them indispensable for arborists, es- pecially in residential and commer- cial settings where space is limited and turf damage presents a signifi- cant liability. Despite a price tag of up to $100,000, miniloaders are a solid investment for tree care companies, especially con- sidering their long-term durability and high resale value. When considering which miniloader might be the best match for your’ needs, look at a range of factors, from size to maintenance requirements to groundspeed. But most of all, look for a machine that has proven itself powerful, maneuver- able, and customizable enough for suc- cess in the rugged world of tree care.
Vermeer North Atlantic's ATX960 compact articulated loader has a lift capacity of 3,285 pounds when straight and a machine width of 59 inches.
helping you find the right match than in making a quick sale. “It is extremely important to under- stand what size machine fits your company, its mission, and its target for future jobs,” says Harold Fleegel, who handles dealer development for TNE Distributing. “This will allow you to work on jobs efficiently and will help you land jobs in the future.” It is worth considering buying a used miniloader if there are any available in your market. These machines are ex- tremely durable, so used miniloaders are apt to be a solid investment. “The advantage of a subcompact wheel loader is that there is less stress on all the components, so they usually last a little longer than a mini skid steer, for example,” says de Jong. “We have seen customers who have extremely high hours on those machines.” Sleurink agrees. “You can easily put 2,000 to 3,000 hours on a machine like this.” The only problem with buying used is that the market for used miniloaders is not particularly large. This is because these products haven’t been wide-
so I can go down the road without getting a ticket for having the wrong license,” says Font. Groundspeed Speed is important, es- pecially when miniloaders are tasked with taking multiple trips from the worksite to a nearby chipper or trailer. Look for speeds of up to 12.5 miles an hour — the faster, the better. Reputation Before you invest in a miniloader, make sure to ask around to see if the model you have in mind has a solid track record, especially since tree care work can be particularly demand- ing on this equipment. “Make sure you find a company that has machines that are proven to work in tree care, since it’s a business that is rough,” says de Jong. PURCHASING DECISIONS Miniloaders are a big investment. Most models cost between $40,000 and $100,000, and pricing depends on size, power, and attachments. Experts advise getting an in-person demonstration of the miniloader you’re considering before you invest. Look for dealers who are more interested in
These manufacturers make the miniloaders that are most used by tree care professionals. Avant Bobcat DFD Loaders Giant Miniloaders.com Morbark TNE Distributing Vermeer Miniloaders for Tree Care
12 | ArborTIMES Winter 2024
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