If you've ever had to complete demolition, roadwork, dirt work, or landscaping project, chances are you've come across a skid steer rental or Bobcat rental at some point. These compact, versatile machines can easily navigate over difficult terrains and can be used to complete a variety of jobs, from loading to debris removal. At our Calgary skid steer rental company, TheRentalGuys.ca, we offer an extensive supply of bobcat rental and skid steer rental. Here's everything you need to know about these compact machines before you rent one yourself.

Can I rent a Bobcat Rental or Skid Steer Rental?

A compact machine, such as a Bobcat rental or skid steer rental, is no small investment. Depending on the size and features, these machines can cost anywhere from $35,000 to $90,000. This cost is especially difficult for contractors that occasionally land jobs that require the use of a bobcat rental or skid steer rental. Along with the initial capital, contractors need to consider the cost of different attachments, any transportation fees, and the funds needed to maintain the equipment.

The good news is that you can rent these machines for a far lower cost and then return them once the job is complete. There are several benefits to skid steer rentals and bobcat rentals, such as:

• Reduced operation and storage costs
• Ability to complete multiple or short-term projects
• Ability to expand services

Not only do you save money by renting as opposed to buying, but you also preserve precious storage space. Moreover, renting expands both the quantity and quality of jobs you can complete. If you invest in one machine, you can only handle one job at a time and have a limited range of jobs you can sufficiently execute. 

Renting multiple machines costs less than purchasing one, which lets you complete several short-term projects. You can also rent equipment with different attachments for different jobs, consequently expanding your services. For example, renting a machine with a hydraulic clamp lets you complete demolition jobs. Our Calgary bobcat rental company has a wide range of machines to choose from. We also offer equipment rentals so that you can select a specific type of attachment. 

Is it difficult to rent a Bobcat Rental or Skid Steer Rental?

Someone renting a Bobcat Rental or skid steer rental for the first time may worry about the rental process. Thanks to the advancement of technology, renting a bobcat rental or skid steer rental has never been easier. Our Calgary skid steer rental company offers an easily navigable online platform that lets you quickly place an order from the comfort of your own home.

Another common concern with renting is transporting equipment. At TheRentalGuys.ca, we include transportation as part of our services. After your order is confirmed, we will deliver the machine to your site of operation and pick it up once the job is done. We also offer same-day delivery services so that you can start your job as soon as possible.

What is the difference between a Bobcat rental and a skid steer rental?

If you're new to Bobcat rental or skid steer rental, you may be wondering which machine is best for you. Understanding these machines will help you decide. 

A skid steer, also known as a skid loader or skid-steer loader, is a compact piece of equipment used to excavate, pull, push and lift materials. It was invented in the 1950s by the Keller brothers, who sold the rights to the Melroe Manufacturing Company in 1958.

Its relatively small size, easy-to-maneuver nature, and ability to support multiple attachments has cemented the skid steer as a reliable machine for construction and landscaping jobs. The average skid steer can lift between 800 pounds to 2 tons of material at a time. The machine gets its name from the wheels (or sometimes tracks) located on either side—these can be operated independently and at different speeds, which cause it to turn by dragging or skidding across the ground.

Bobcats are a specific brand of skid steers. In essence, all bobcats are skid steers, but not all skid steers are bobcats. The name first came into use in 1963, after the release of the M444 Melroe Bobcat. Melroe Manufacturing company was renamed the Bobcat company in 1995, which explains why the two terms are often used synonymously.

What attachments can you use with skid steer rental and Bobcat rental?

Attachments expand the functionality of compact machines, increasing the types of jobs you can perform with them. Here are some attachments you can get with your equipment rental:

• Forks: For heavy loading, lifting, and carrying, you may benefit from a fork attachment.
• Buckets: Buckets are used to clear debris, snow, or other materials. They can also help with scooping.
• Concrete breakers: As the name suggests, these tools are used to break concrete, such as slabs and pavement.
• Trenchers: Trenchers help install pipes and cables without disrupting the environment.
• Augers: These tools are used for drilling holes, typically into the wood.

What sizes do bobcat rental or skid steer rental come in?

There are 12 models of Bobcat skid steer rentals, each with its own unique features. They also come in a variety of sizes, ranging from the small-set Bobcat S70 Skid Steer Loader rental to the large Bobcat S330 Skid Steer Loader rental.

The Bobcat S70 Skid Steer rental, standing at 6 feet tall and 3 feet wide is the perfect option for a job that is either too big for a shovel or in a confined space. This model is easy to maneuver and can pass through small doorways, gates, alleys and areas with low ceilings.

On the opposite end of the spectrum is the Bobcat S330, a mammoth of a machine designed for operating the toughest of conditions. This skid steer rental, which runs on an 85-horsepower engine, spans six feet and weighs 9185 pounds. It is best for customers handling large-scale projects that require heavier equipment.

For the best results, it's important that your Calgary Bobcat rental or skid steer rental meets the parameters of your project. We offer machines of several sizes, as well as mini track loaders and compact excavators.

Can a skid steer rental or Bobcat rental load a dump truck?

Skid steer rentals and Bobcat rentals are incredibly versatile and can take on a myriad of construction-related tasks, from digging and grading to demolition and scrap removal. Each skid steer varies in its abilities, so it's important that you pick the right one for your project.

If you want to load a dump truck, you'll need a vertical lift skid steer, which offers a wider reach and keeps loads closer to the machine. Its ability to load the truck will depend on both the size of the skid steer and the height of the dump truck—you don't want a skid steer that is too small to transfer loads or a truck that is out of reach.

 

Basics of a skid steer rental or Bobcat rental

Skid steer rental can be used for a wide variety of construction jobs, such as:

• Demolition
• Roadwork
• Landscaping
• Debris removal
• Grading and backfilling
• Loading and material handling

There are a few different factors to consider as you prepare for a construction task. First, you need to pick the right machine for your precise job. For example, if you are maneuvering through gates, fences or any narrow openings, you should opt for a smaller model.

Another thing to keep in mind is whether the project involves heavy lifting—if so, you need to determine whether the lifting is better suited for a vertical or radial machine. Vertical lift skid steers provide a taller reach, while radial lift skid steers offer a more forward reach. Finally, you should consider whether or not you need any attachments. For instance, if you want to clear snow or debris, you will need a bucket attachment.

Safety procedures

When operating a compact machine, it's essential that you follow all of the necessary safety procedures. Here are some of the most important rules:

• Never exceed the operating capacity of the skid steer
• Always wear your seatbelt or use the restraint bar
• Do not try to modify or alter any protective structures
• Never lift, swing or move a load over somebody's head
• Lower the machine's bucket to safely park the skid steer

Tracks vs wheels on a skid steer rentals or Bobcat rentals

Some skid steer rentals have tracks, while others have wheels. Understanding the difference between the two will help you pick the right one for your project.

Wheels

If you are operating on an even ground, hard terrain, or finished concrete, you will be better off renting a wheeled skid steer. Wheels prefer flat ground and wear more slowly than tracks. Moreover, they tend to be less expensive, more fuel-efficient and generally easier to clean and maintain.

Tracks

A tracked skid steer will come in handy on wet or uneven terrain, or if your job site is muddy, snowy, or sandy. Tracks distribute their weight over a larger area, which helps them move over more difficult land. They also have more traction, which is essential for navigating through soft or muddy ground. You can use a tracked skid steer for even terrain as well.

Where can I rent a Bobcat Rental or Skid Steer Rental in Calgary?

If you're looking to rent a Bobcat or skid steer loader, TheRentalGuys.ca has you covered. Since 2013, we have delivered high-quality, affordable compact machines directly to job sites across Calgary, Canada and the surrounding regions. We offer:

• Calgary Bobcat Rentals
• Calgary Skid Steer Rentals
• Tool Rentals
• Equipment Rentals
• And more!

Whether you're looking for a small machine with a bucket attachment to help clear debris or a larger vertical lift machine that can load dump trucks, we've got the machine for you. Contact us today to learn more!