The Benefits of Compact Track Loaders — Why They Excel in Various Applications

While compact track loaders are relatively new in the construction world, their popularity has skyrocketed in recent years, making them the bestselling equipment type in North America. CTLs are your solution if you’re searching for heavy equipment to tackle digging, bulldozing and material handling tasks.

With their smaller size and versatility, these machines provide increased stability and efficiency for small- and large-scale projects. CTLs also offer better cost efficiency and time savings, making them ideal for long-term use. Explore compact track loader advantages and the difference they can make for your business here.

What Are Compact Track Loaders?

A compact track loader is a type of skid steer that runs on tracks instead of wheels. They are similar in size to skid steers and can perform many of the same functions, though their weight and added traction make them easier to maneuver across slippery or uneven terrain. These machines’ hydraulic systems have either high- or low-flow capabilities, which can impact the attachments you add. 

Skid steers and compact track loaders generally use attachments like pallet forks, buckets, augers and snow blades. Depending on the attachment, you can use CTLs for tasks like:

• Dirt and gravel hauling
• Pallet loading
• Material loading
• Trench digging
• Fence building
• Stump grinding
• Snow removal

CTLs can have a vertical or radial lift. A vertical-lift CTL keeps the bucket closer to the machine, offering strength and balance to lift heavier loads. In contrast, a radial-lift CTL has a bucket placed farther from the operator in the middle of the lift.

You’ll find CTLs in numerous industries, from construction and agriculture to landscaping and property maintenance. They have revolutionized equipment operations, offering better weight distribution, increased lift capacity and improved cost efficiency than their wheeled counterparts. 

From ease of operation to better stability and versatility, it’s no surprise industry experts project compact track loaders will reach a $40 billion market size by 2030. 

Here’s why you should buy a compact track loader for your business.

Cost-Effectiveness

Compact track loaders offer better affordability and efficiency due to these factors.

• Less fuel consumption: CTLs consume less fuel compared to larger equipment, which can benefit businesses’ bottom line over the long term. 
• Reduced ground damage: CTLs offer minimal ground disturbance compared to other machines, saving you on repair costs for the work environment. 
• Faster travel: With shorter travel speeds and cycle times due to ease of maneuverability, you can also increase your productivity, complete tasks more efficiently, accept more projects and earn additional income.
• Reduced maintenance: CTLs tend to have lower overall operating costs, since tracks are less prone to wear and tear than wheeled machines. 

Enhanced Stability

CTLs’ tracks distribute weight more evenly than wheels, offering extra traction and stability on uneven terrain. While wheeled machines might struggle on slopes or in muddy or sandy conditions, CTLs excel. CTLs also typically have a higher lifting capacity than skid steers, allowing them to handle heavier loads more effectively.

Additionally, the tracks on CTLs exert lower ground pressure than wheels, making them suitable for delicate surfaces like turf or snow without causing as much damage.

Operator Comfort and Safety

Track loaders allow operators to comfortably use them for several hours a day. Many models come with air conditioning, heating and suspension seats. While these features can help keep you comfortable and focused, they are also safer. 

CTLs’ stability and lower center of gravity provide additional support and maneuverability on slopes, reducing the risks of tipping over. Employees will appreciate a safer, more positive working environment.

Versatility

Compact track loaders are compatible with various attachments. This multipurpose functionality makes CTLs efficient in applications from material handling to snow removal and forestry work. Equip your CTL with buckets, grapples, forks, augers and more and appreciate their adaptability for each task.

Compact Track Loader Applications 

Due to CTLs’ versatility, efficiency and small size, companies use them for the following applications. 

Construction Industry

Construction workers rely on compact track loaders to grade, level and clear sites. This equipment transports materials like soil, gravel and debris and can excavate trenches. In general, CTLs can handle construction tasks like:

• Site preparation
• Excavation
• Handling materials and debris
• Demolition

Their versatility, stability and maneuverability make CTLs invaluable in the construction industry. Tracks provide additional traction and stability across uneven terrain, offering efficiency and safety while completing tasks. 

Agricultural Sector

CTLs make the ideal equipment for the agricultural sector. This machinery can quickly handle many chores, increasing your productivity. 

• Handling feed: You can use compact track loaders to move feed, hay bales and other supplies on a farm.
• Field maintenance: CTLs can clear fields and handle landscaping and general farm maintenance. 

You might use various attachments for farming tasks, including forks, buckets or grapples. With their all-terrain capabilities, CTLs offer traction on muddy or uneven terrain, which is ideal for many agricultural environments. 

Landscaping and Property Maintenance

Compact track loaders excel in landscaping tasks. For example, you can use them for: 

• Grading
• Leveling
• Mulching
• Planting
• Moving materials
• Outdoor maintenance

CTLs equipped with forestry mulchers can quickly clear brush and vegetation, remove debris and manage forested land. Their durable designs make them ideal for rugged environments, while easy maneuverability means better control over detailed tasks like trail maintenance and vegetation clearing.

Find a Compact Track Loader at Gregory Poole

Compact track loaders offer exceptional power, enhanced performance and technology features to boost your productivity. Turn to Gregory Poole when you want to add a CTL to your fleet. Our Cat® compact track loaders benefit multiple operations, and we also offer various attachments and parts to help you get your tasks done right.

Partner with us for our technical expertise, a strong dealer network, quality brands and vast selection of superior equipment. Browse our products today or contact us for help finding the ideal compact track loader for your operations.