Wheel Loader Buying Guide

If you need to transport loose material, then you need a wheel loader. These high-performing pieces of heavy equipment can improve your work day, especially if you are in the construction or agricultural industry.

Use the below buying guide to narrow your search and find your perfect match. When you are ready to shop wheel loaders for sale, contact Stribling Equipment. We run 20 dealerships across Tennessee, Mississippi, and Arkansas.

Consider The Materials You Transport

Start by thinking about the materials the wheel loader will be moving. Heavier materials will pair best with a smaller and sturdier bucket. Lighter materials will pair best with a larger and lighter bucket. 

Focus on what can get the job done with the fewest passes and without resulting in wheel loader instability or risking damage to your equipment.

Decide The Tipping Load Maximum

The tipping load is the weight that can lift rear tires off of the ground (when the wheel loader is fully articulated in a stationary position). In other words, it is the maximum amount that you can expect to safely and securely transport. Think about the weight of your loads and the corresponding tipping load you will need from the wheel loader.

Don't forget that other factors can affect the tipping load besides the material weight. Counterweights, tire sizes, and chains can all influence the tipping load. Take a broad picture when determining your tipping load requirement.

Think About Your Job Sites

Unique work sites can require unique wheel loader capabilities or features. 

For example:

• If you'll be at a cramped work site with narrow entry points, you will need a smaller and more compact wheel loader. 
• If you'll be navigating obstacles, focus on a wheel loader with impressive agility. 
• If you'll be tackling heavy tasks, seek out a high capacity wheel loader.

Decide The Ideal Wheel Loader Size

Smaller wheel loaders tend to offer 50 to 90 hp. They are usually the most affordable, the easiest to store and transport, and the most agile.

Mid-sized wheel loaders tend to offer 100 to 300 hp. They are ideal for those who need more from their heavy equipment, but don't need the full performance potential.

Larger wheel loaders tend to offer 500 to 1,500 hp. They can handle challenging projects, such as lifting 20 to 40 tons of material. They provide a maximized performance, but also tend to cost the most.

Don't Forget About Attachments

Wheel loaders can be paired with various attachments. The most popular is a bucket, but other options include pallet forks, augers, and grapples. If you want to use attachments, make sure to seek out a wheel loader that is compatible with the attachments you want. If you plan on switching between attachments frequently, a quick coupler can make the process easier.

Ready to shop wheel loaders for sale? Check out the selection at Stribling Equipment. Explore our models online or stop by our dealership. We have 20 locations throughout Arkansas, Mississippi, and Tennessee. Our experts can pair you with the most compatible wheel loader, so reach out today.