Mini Skid Steer Versatility Meets Needs of Compact Rental Jobs

By Chris Thompson, Ditch Witch product manager, compact equipment

Today’s rental landscape jobs have many rental operators turning to compact mini skid steer machines versus larger trenchers or track loaders. The reason behind the shift: On many landscape jobs, rental operators need to get on and off their machine multiple times throughout the day. The ease of simply hopping on and off the operator’s platform of a mini skid steer is much easier than climbing in and out of the cab of a larger machine. Additionally, the compact machines fit through standard yard gates and make it easier to maneuver in small, residential spaces where many rental jobs are found today.

And what’s more, the construction industry continues to see a shortage of skilled operators. Today, rental operators are challenged to do more with less; they need reliable equipment that gets the job done faster and easier. Due to this trend, operators turn to mini skid steers for their versatility. The units offer a variety of attachments to help perform different tasks. Operators can now have one dedicated machine for multiple jobs. For instance, operators can take one machine on a job and do trenching work, attach a bucket to remove dirt, and also restore the ground with a box rake attachment. These machines also direct maximum power to the attachment further improving productivity.

For example, the new Ditch Witch SK1050 mini skid steer directs maximum hydraulic power to the attachment, providing rental operators the power to tackle challenging tasks with more efficient and productive use of hydraulic attachments like trenchers and augers.

For these reasons, mini skid steers are fast becoming the preferred piece of equipment for many smaller, rental jobs. The units have a low initial cost and a low total cost of ownership, which also appeals to rental stores. The durability and ease of maintenance makes servicing the machines easy for both rental stores and operators—another appealing characteristic.

Today, there are a variety of mini skid steer models on the market to meet the growing needs of the underground construction and rental industries—from very compact, like the Ditch Witch SK600 unit, to larger and more powerful, like the newest Ditch Witch SK1550 unit. The SK1550 is designed to conquer complex landscape and irrigation projects that typically were only suited for traditional skid steer loaders, further improving versatility. Although larger, the unit still provides the key benefits of a mini skid steer, including a smaller jobsite footprint.

The market and industry are continually changing. The mini skid steer design and functionality is evolving at the same pace to meet the growing needs of the compact, rental space.

For more information on Ditch Witch mini skid steers, visit https://www.ditchwitch.com/mini-skid-steer.

HYDRAULIC BREAKER
Used for construction and demolition, our breakers can be used to break up asphalt, concrete or even clay. The hydraulic hammer is perfect for any small or medium job you might have. More up-time in the field is always the goal, and with only two moving parts and a few seals, there’s no reason for down-time.
Compatible Models

SK600, SK800, SK900, SK1050, SK1550, SK1750

ROCK SAW

Best suited for irrigation and fiber installation, the Rock Saw attachment can effortlessly cut through rock, concrete, and other tough materials with unmatched precision. 

Compatible Models

SK1050, SK1550, SK1750

BACKHOE
Easily move materials for rebuilds, new construction, footings, utility repairs and more with this compact and versatile attachment.
Compatible Models

SK800, SK900, SK1050, SK1550, SK1750

STUMP GRINDERS
Featuring a heavy-duty boom design, powerful stump grinding attachments quickly shred stumps down to nothing. Easy maneuvering from stump to stump and increased visibility turns more ground stumps into more profit.
Compatible Models

SK600, SK800, SK900, SK1050, SK1550, SK1750, SK3000