Wheel Loader Buying Guide
A wheel loader is a valuable investment for many industries, from agriculture to construction to mining. However, not all models will suit all projects or worksites. We've created the following buyer's guide to help you find the best option for your needs. If you have any questions or want to explore wheel loaders for sale, head over to Cascade Trader. Our dealership is based in Chehalis, Washington, and we proudly serve those in Olympia as well.
1. Consider The Ideal Wheel Loader Size
When you first explore wheel loaders on the market, there are seemingly endless options. This can be overwhelming! One easy way to start narrowing the search is to select a model size range. Limit the choices to a specific size and immediately enjoy a much more manageable number of choices.
Small Wheel Loaders
These models tend to be between 50 and 90 hp. Their benefits include:
- a lower price tag
- an easier experience transporting the model to the worksite
- an easier time finding room to store them
- improved agility and ability to navigate tight work spaces
Mid-Sized Wheel Loaders
These models are usually in the 100 to 300 hp range. They offer perks, such as:
- the ability to handle more weight
- the ability to handle more material
Large Wheel Loaders
These models run in the 500 to 1,500 hp range. They offer:
- the ability to move 20 to 40 tons of material in the bucket
- the highest amount of productivity and output
Most projects will pair well with a mid-sized wheel loader. Think about the unique needs of the work site, as well as the project details, which will dictate the ideal wheel loader size.
2. Consider The Attachments
One advantage of wheel loaders is that they can use attachments. These handy accessories can expand the wheel loader's versatility, allowing it to tackle a wider range of projects.
The most common wheel loader attachment is a bucket, which is typically used to transport material. Other attachment options include augers, grapples, and pallet forks. Think about what attachments would best suit your line of work.
Remember to account for the attachments' size when considering the wheel loader size. A large attachment needs a large wheel loader, which ensures stability during operation. It's also important to account for the expected frequency of your attachment use. If you plan on switching between attachments often, a quick coupler will help make the switching easier.
3. Consider The Seller
Finally, think about where to get the wheel loader. A wheel loader dealership is a great resource for a few reasons.
First, a wheel loader dealership has incentive to offer a fair deal. If they don't, then you could share your negative experience in online reviews and scare potential customers away.
Second, the dealership offers valuable industry knowledge. The employees know the ins and outs of various brands, models, features, specifications, attachments, and so on. They know which models are a great investment...and which ones are continually visiting their service department for repairs. They can point you in the right direction and make personalized model suggestions. This saves you the hassle of spending hours researching and comparing models. Simply tell the dealer what you want and let them do all the research for you!
Third, a dealership offers a high number of options. If you go through a private seller, then you will need to visit multiple individuals to get a range of options. You can make one stop at a dealership and get access to multiple models in one visit! This makes comparing models much easier and more convenient.
Ready to shop wheel loaders for sale? Check out the selection of models at Cascade Trader. Our friendly staff is always happy to answer questions, give advice, and make the shopping process a breeze. You'll find us in Chehalis, Washington. We also proudly serve those in Olympia, Washington.