What is Tipping Load on a Skid Steer vs. a Track Loader?

Tipping Load: What It Is & Why It Matters

So, let’s say you’re looking at the spec sheet for a new skid steer or compact track loader. Travel speed, fuel tank capacity, track width… all pretty self-explanatory. 

Then you get to tipping load. 

If you’re wondering what tipping load is and why it matters when you’re buying a loader, then you’ve come to the right place! Here’s everything you need to know. 

What is Tipping Load?

Tipping load is the max weight the machine’s front end can handle before the back end loses contact with the ground. This is especially important if you’re looking at a skid steer with tracks (like the Bobcat T66 or T770). 

You should not operate at the tipping load. It’s a measurement used to calculate safety. 

What Is Rated Operating Capacity?

Rated Operating Capacity (ROC) is a percentage of the tipping load. It tells you how much weight the machine can actually lift. 

Tipping Load on a Skid Steer vs. Compact Track Loader

Most manufacturers rate ROC at 50% of the tipping load for skid-steer loaders with wheels (SSL). For example, the Bobcat S66 has a tipping load of 4,800 lbs. That puts its ROC at 2,400 lbs. For track loaders (CTL), operators follow a stricter standard of 35% of the tipping load (which would make the ROC 2,450 lbs on the T66 because it has a tipping load of 7,000 lbs). 

Do You Need a Skid-Steer or a Compact Track Loader?

Tipping load is a very important factor to consider when you’re buying a new skid-steer or compact track loader, but when you’re buying, you’re never talking about it in a vacuum. Often, the decision to buy one machine or another comes down to how ground conditions and lift style affect the tipping load of the machine. 

Ground Disturbance: The ground you’re working on makes a big difference. Skid-steer loaders handle solid, stable surfaces well. But put one in mud, and you’ll quickly run into problems. If you need to lift heavy loads without tearing up soft ground, a track loader is the better choice. The tracks spread out the weight, giving you more flotation and less ground disturbance. 

Radial vs. Vertical Lift Style: You’ll also want to think about lift style. On a radial lift machine, the tipping load peaks when the arms are stretched out in front, so you can only lift materials about halfway up. Vertical lift models raise the load in a straight path. If the machine can lift it low, it can lift it high, too. For stacking pallets or loading trucks, a vertical lift loader is the way to go. 

Safety Tips for Lifting Heavy Materials

If you have a good idea of what tipping load and rated operating capacity means for your skid steer, then you’re almost ready to get in the operator’s seat. Here’s a couple tips that will help you stay safe while you’re operating a Bobcat loader: 

• Go slow. Especially if you’re carrying a full bucket or pallet. 

• Keep the load low while driving. The higher your load, the more your weight shifts forward. 

• Be cautious on uneven ground. Tipping load is calculated on level ground. On a slope, your center of gravity shifts downhill, making it much easier to tip forward. Even something as small as a driveway curb can throw things off. 

Demo a Bobcat Loader at White Star Machinery

Tipping load is important to know when you’re buying a new machine. But, if you’re looking at a spec sheet, it’s better to ask yourself, “Do I need to operate at 35% or 50% of the tipping load for this job?” And that leads you to the inevitable question: “Do I need a skid-steer loader or a compact track loader?” 

If you’re ready to answer that question, get in touch with your White Star sales rep today!