A rental-focused comparison of Bobcat, CAT, Kubota, John Deere, Case, New Holland, and Takeuchi
Picking the best skid steer for a job usually comes down to what's available near you, how long you need it, and what attachments you're running. Instead of committing to a purchase that can run six figures, most homeowners and contractors rent by the day or week from a local provider. This guide ranks the major skid steer brands, breaks down where each one shines, and shows you what to expect for pricing, deposits, and pickup versus delivery when you rent instead of buy.
Skid Steer Rental Questions, Answered
- How much does it cost to rent a skid steer per day?
- Daily rates typically run $250 to $450 for a standard wheeled skid steer, depending on horsepower and brand. Compact track loaders and larger frame machines like a Bobcat S770 or S76 tend to sit at the higher end of that range, often $350 to $500 per day.
- Is it cheaper to rent weekly instead of daily?
- Almost always. Weekly rates are usually priced at three to four times the daily rate rather than seven times it, so a multi-day project saves money on a weekly agreement. Most rental providers on Rntr list both daily and weekly pricing on the listing page.
- Does the brand matter when I'm renting a skid steer?
- It matters less than availability and attachment compatibility, but it still counts. Bobcat and CAT machines are common and easy to find parts and operators trained on, while Kubota and John Deere track loaders are known for smooth ride quality on soft or uneven ground. If you already have attachments from a specific brand, matching the mounting system saves a headache.
- Do rental providers deliver skid steers or do I need to pick them up?
- Both options usually exist. Small and mid-size units can often be picked up with a pickup truck and trailer, while larger track loaders are commonly delivered on a lowboy trailer for a delivery fee. Delivery fees vary by distance, so check the specific listing for pricing before booking.
- What deposit should I expect when renting a skid steer?
- Security deposits for skid steers commonly range from $500 to $1,500 depending on the machine's value and the provider's policy. Some providers hold the deposit on a credit card rather than charging it outright, and it's refunded after the equipment is returned in good condition.
- Do I need experience to rent a skid steer?
- Most providers don't require certification for short-term rentals, but they'll usually walk you through the controls and safety features at pickup or delivery. If you're new to operating one, ask about a brief orientation before you start the job.
- Can I rent a skid steer for just a few hours?
- Some providers offer hourly or half-day rentals, but daily rentals are the norm across the marketplace. If you only need a machine for a quick job like moving mulch or grading a small area, ask the provider directly since minimum rental periods vary by location.
How the Top Skid Steer Brands Compare
Bobcat is the name most people default to, and for good reason. The brand practically invented the modern skid steer, and its lineup runs from small frame machines to full-size units like a Bobcat large skid steer loader suited for heavier grading and material handling. For jobs on soft ground, lawns, or landscaped areas, a Bobcat T-450 compact track loader spreads weight over rubber tracks instead of tires, reducing rutting.
The Bobcat vs CAT skid steer debate comes up constantly among contractors, and honestly the two brands are closer than people expect. CAT machines tend to have slightly roomier cabs and a reputation for strong hydraulic flow, which matters if you're running demanding attachments like a mulcher or trencher. A standard-size Kubota SVL75-3 track loader listed alongside a CAT 259D3 is a good example of how similarly sized machines from different brands often end up in the same rental class with comparable rates.
Kubota has built a strong following in the track loader segment specifically. The SVL series, including the Kubota SVL75-3, is known for a smooth ride and good visibility, which makes it a favorite for landscaping crews and site prep work where operators are in the seat all day.
John Deere skid steers, like the 317G tracked loader, lean on strong dealer support and a reputation for reliable hydraulics.
Case skid steers, including models like a 74hp Case skid steer loader, are respected for durability and tend to be priced competitively for rental, which makes them a solid pick if you're comparing rates across brands for a longer job.
Case skid steers, including models like a 74hp Case skid steer loader, are respected for durability and tend to be priced competitively for rental, which makes them a solid pick if you're comparing rates across brands for a longer job.
Wheeled Skid Steers vs Compact Track Loaders
Before you settle on a brand, decide whether you need a wheeled skid steer or a compact track loader. Wheeled units are lighter, faster on hard surfaces like concrete and asphalt, and generally rent for less per day. Track loaders cost more to rent but distribute weight better, which matters on wet ground, lawns, or loose fill where tires would sink or tear up the surface.
Size class matters just as much as brand. A compact frame machine in the 50 to 65 horsepower range, similar to a Bobcat S450 skid steer loader, is enough for most homeowner projects like grading a yard, moving pallets of material, or clearing brush. Larger frame units, like a Bobcat S770/S76 skid steer, make more sense for contractors handling heavier lift capacities, bigger buckets, or demolition attachments.
Takeuchi and New Holland round out the field with reputations for durable undercarriages and strong resale value, which is part of why rental providers keep older units of these brands in their fleets longer.
If you're weighing a skid steer against other compact equipment options for a job, it's also worth reading our guide to the best mini excavator brands to see whether digging work calls for an excavator instead of a loader.
If you're weighing a skid steer against other compact equipment options for a job, it's also worth reading our guide to the best mini excavator brands to see whether digging work calls for an excavator instead of a loader.
Skid Steer Brand Comparison at a Glance
Typical rental pricing and best-use scenarios for the most commonly available skid steer brands.
| Brand | Popular Models | Typical Daily Rate | Typical Weekly Rate | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
S450, S650, S770, T450 track loader | $275 - $450 | $900 - $1,500 | General use, wide availability, attachment variety | |
246D, 259D3, 289D | $300 - $475 | $1,000 - $1,600 | High hydraulic flow attachments, contractor jobs | |
SVL65-2, SVL75-3 | $300 - $460 | $950 - $1,550 | Landscaping, grading, smooth ride on rough terrain | |
317G, 331G | $300 - $460 | $1,000 - $1,550 | Site prep, reliable hydraulics, dealer support | |
SR175, SV280, 74hp models | $260 - $420 | $900 - $1,400 | Durability on a budget, longer rental terms | |
C232, C238 | $280 - $440 | $950 - $1,450 | Compact track work, resale-grade condition in older fleets | |
TS70V2, TL8R2 | $290 - $450 | $975 - $1,500 | Undercarriage durability, tight-space maneuvering |
Find a Skid Steer Ready to Rent Near You
Skip the ownership costs and browse skid steers, compact track loaders, and attachments available for daily or weekly rental from local providers in your area.