Caterpillar loader

Since its beginning in 1925, Caterpillar has become the world's leader in heavy construction and mining equipment. One area in which they specialize is the Caterpillar loader. Often abbreviated as CAT, Caterpillar has the largest line of loaders in the industry. Featuring fifty-seven different loaders, Caterpillar loaders are among the best in the world.

A loader is any type of heavy equipment used to move debris from one place to another. The term "loader" refers specifically to the scoop, bucket, or shovel extending from the front of the machine used for loading excavated debris into a truck.

Though models vary, Caterpillar carries five kinds of loaders:

6 Backhoe loaders: feature a loader on one end and an excavator on the other
29 Wheel loaders: feature a large loader in the front and wheels
7 Track loaders: feature a large loader in the front and rubber tracks
10 Skid-steer loaders: feature a loader that is lifted on hydraulic arms (called the boom) from behind the cab, allowing the driver to lift debris well above eye level as well as wheels that can turn in opposing directions.
5 Multi Terrain Loaders: Skid-steer loaders with rubber tracks instead of wheels

Often, Caterpillar's loaders feature attachments which can replace the loader itself. Possible attachments include plows, brooms, blades, forks, grapples, rakes, and more.

Caterpillar models range from the compact to the largest loaders on the market. As a result, a CAT loader can be owned by a large construction company or residential worker alike. One of the most common reasons to consider Caterpillar loaders is to become an independent contractor and provide usage for a fee. These ventures can be extremely profitable offering incredible hourly rates if you find contractors that don't already own the same loader.

Caterpillar Loaders for Rent. Because Caterpillar is the biggest name in the business, CAT loaders are often more practical to rent than own. You can rent Caterpillar loaders daily, weekly, or monthly. The longer you keep them, the cheaper they are per day. Depending on the model, Caterpillar loaders rent daily for $200-$700, weekly for $1000-$3000, and monthly for $3000-$8000. For rates in your area, see Construction Equipment for Rent.

Caterpillar Loaders for Sale. If you are looking at Caterpillar loaders to purchase, the cost will depend on the loader's age and features. Used Caterpillar loaders can cost anywhere from $6000 to $200,000. For a complete listing see Construction Equipment. New Caterpillar loaders can cost more than $300,000. To finance or lease a new loader, contact CAT Financial.

For more information see Caterpillar Corporate Overview. For the most complete information on heavy equipment, please browse the rest of our site or click on our home page.