Have you been tasked with finding the most cost-effective way to finalise your small-scale building project? You may need to hire a machine that’s not only versatile but fast.
It’s with this requirement in mind that many project managers recommend looking for a mini loader for sale as machines are an asset to any construction company. Not sure if a mini loader is the right fit for the job you have? Keep reading as we take a closer look at the most common jobs you can do with a mini loader.
What is a Mini Loader?
Mini loaders are small, but powerful heavy-duty types of front-end loaders. Also typically known as mini skid steer loaders, mini skid steers, and compact loaders, these machines are remarkably lightweight and compact. This unique feature makes them ideal for working in narrow spaces.
They’re equipped with a hydraulic system that makes it possible to attach a wide range of accessories and tools to increase the hob functions this machine can do. The most common attachments include buckets, trenchers, forks, and augers.
Top Jobs You Can Use a Mini Loader For
It’s easy to see why mini loaders are a go-to choice for construction companies across Australia. Our experts have compiled a list of the tasks that are made so much simpler with a mini loader.
1. Moving Materials Around
One of the more common reasons to use a mini loader is to move materials around your job site. This can include sand, gravel, soil, and other aggregates. Using the right bucket attachment will get this job done a lot faster and safer than doing it manually. Their lightweight profile makes it easy to maneuver this machine in small, narrow spaces.
2. Landscaping Tasks
Whether you’re running your own small farm or a much larger agricultural business, landscaping tasks can be time-consuming. A mini loader can easily level ground, mulch, and even move soil. All it takes is the right attachment. Simple tasks such as digging trenches, filling holes, or moving dirt or log piles are done in record time.
3. Dig Post Holes
If you need to put up a new fence at home, on your farm, or as part of your construction project, the auger attachment can make this process a breeze. Augers look like giant drill bits and are designed with spiral blades that pierce and drill downward in a helix manner.
4. Site Clearance
Most construction sites require extensive cleaning up and foliage clearing before the project can even get started. Simply add a brush cutter attachment to your mini loader and you’ll have that piece of land cleared up in no time.
In addition to clearing the designated space of excess foliage, you can also use your mini loader to shape the site and create roads and paths around the area. Move the rubble out of the way using the bucket attachment. Larger trees and shrubs can be moved using the fork attachment.
5. Mow the Lawn
You may be surprised to learn that you can also mow the lawn with a mini loader. This is ideal when you’re trying to cut back thick grass and brush. The flail mower attachment makes quick work of overgrown areas that you would otherwise struggle to get into with a regular lawn mower.
6. Perform Road Maintenance
Whether on your farm or as part of your road repair contract, you can also use a mini loader to perform different types of road maintenance. Spreading gravel, repairing drainage, and fixing holes can all be done with a mini loader.
7. Cleaning and Scraping
Cleaning animal pens is another farm function that can be quite mundane and take up a lot of time that could be better spent elsewhere. Scraping pens, cleaning feeding areas as well as loading and spreading manure are just a few ways a mini loader can simplify your animal care duties.
Finding the Right Mini Loader
With a wide range of models on the market, it’s easy to find the right one for the job. If you’re buying a mini loader for a specific job, it’s essential to know what you’ll be using it for.
Consider the following pointers when you’re narrowing down potential options:
- What is the type of terrain your mini loader will be working on? Rugged terrain may require a more powerful model. Consider an option with tracks instead of wheels to make moving around much easier.
- What functions need to be performed? Consider all the functions that need to be done around the site and check how many of them can be done with a mini loader. Get quotes for specific attachments.
- If moving materials around is on the agenda, consider the weight of the heaviest items. This will enable you to get a mini loader with the right capacity.
Final Thoughts
Mini loaders are worth their weight in gold. With the amount of job functions you can perform with one simple, but versatile machine, you’ll soon wonder how you managed to get any work done without it!
