10-14-2025, 01:07 PM
Starting Out with a Skid Loader
In late 2013, a new operator in Missouri purchased a skid loader primarily for personal use—handling firewood, moving car parts, maintaining property, and building a garage. The machine was paid for in cash, and the owner began exploring small paid jobs to offset maintenance costs. Equipped with a smooth bucket, a tooth bucket, and an auger, he was also fabricating a root bucket and considering future attachments like pallet forks, a grapple, or a 4-in-1 bucket.
This setup reflects a common entry point into compact equipment contracting: owning a versatile machine and gradually expanding capabilities based on job demand and budget.
First Paid Job and Pricing Challenges
The first paid job involved spreading six 20-ton loads of material—three of 2" clean rock and three of fill/washout—to build a level pad for RV parking and a future pole barn. The customer requested a 2+ foot elevation gain at one end. The operator quoted $75/hour and estimated two hours, but the customer countered with a flat $200, citing rental costs. Despite feeling lowballed, the operator accepted the job to gain experience and build a local reputation.
This pricing scenario is common in entry-level contracting. Homeowners often compare quotes to rental rates, overlooking transport, fuel, wear, and operator skill. Accepting underpriced jobs can help build a portfolio, but it risks setting unsustainable expectations.
On-Site Learning and Technique Adjustment
Initially, the operator rushed the job, driving aggressively over piles and working at full throttle. After realizing the risk of tipping and inefficiency, he slowed down, adopted a half-throttle approach, and began moving material one bucket at a time while smoothing on return passes. This shift improved control and productivity.
He also paused periodically to check grade and ensure the pad met specifications. The job was completed in 2.5 hours, and the customer was satisfied—offering referrals to others with similar needs.
Equipment Care and Bucket Maintenance
The operator used an 84" smooth bucket with a welded wear plate featuring bolt holes for optional teeth. After the job, he considered adding a bolt-on cutting edge to protect the bucket’s face during backdragging. This is a smart move: bolt-on edges are sacrificial and can be replaced without damaging the bucket shell.
He also owned a 72" tooth bucket and was evaluating larger options. A removable tooth bar could offer flexibility for switching between digging and finish grading.
Business Setup and Terminology
For branding, the operator debated using “excavating” on business cards. While accurate for digging and grading, “land services” or “site prep” may better reflect the scope of skid loader work. He also questioned whether to use “skid loader,” “skid steer,” or “Bobcat.” While “Bobcat” is a brand, it’s widely recognized and often used generically. “Skid steer” is the most technically correct and accepted term in professional circles.
Minimum Charges and Service Expansion
He proposed a $200 minimum for jobs within 30 minutes and $400 for longer travel. This is reasonable if it covers fuel, transport, and setup time. For auger work, charging per hole is fair, especially if the auger was a significant investment. Once the cost is recovered, offering it as a bundled service can attract more jobs.
He was also building an F450 dump truck to haul material. For delivery pricing, a flat fee covering fuel, insurance, and time is often better than per-mile charges, which can confuse customers.
Conclusion
This first job offered valuable lessons in pricing, technique, customer interaction, and equipment care. While underpriced, it led to referrals and practical experience. For new operators, balancing learning with profitability is key. Clear communication, controlled operation, and thoughtful upgrades can turn a side machine into a reliable income source.
In late 2013, a new operator in Missouri purchased a skid loader primarily for personal use—handling firewood, moving car parts, maintaining property, and building a garage. The machine was paid for in cash, and the owner began exploring small paid jobs to offset maintenance costs. Equipped with a smooth bucket, a tooth bucket, and an auger, he was also fabricating a root bucket and considering future attachments like pallet forks, a grapple, or a 4-in-1 bucket.
This setup reflects a common entry point into compact equipment contracting: owning a versatile machine and gradually expanding capabilities based on job demand and budget.
First Paid Job and Pricing Challenges
The first paid job involved spreading six 20-ton loads of material—three of 2" clean rock and three of fill/washout—to build a level pad for RV parking and a future pole barn. The customer requested a 2+ foot elevation gain at one end. The operator quoted $75/hour and estimated two hours, but the customer countered with a flat $200, citing rental costs. Despite feeling lowballed, the operator accepted the job to gain experience and build a local reputation.
This pricing scenario is common in entry-level contracting. Homeowners often compare quotes to rental rates, overlooking transport, fuel, wear, and operator skill. Accepting underpriced jobs can help build a portfolio, but it risks setting unsustainable expectations.
On-Site Learning and Technique Adjustment
Initially, the operator rushed the job, driving aggressively over piles and working at full throttle. After realizing the risk of tipping and inefficiency, he slowed down, adopted a half-throttle approach, and began moving material one bucket at a time while smoothing on return passes. This shift improved control and productivity.
He also paused periodically to check grade and ensure the pad met specifications. The job was completed in 2.5 hours, and the customer was satisfied—offering referrals to others with similar needs.
Equipment Care and Bucket Maintenance
The operator used an 84" smooth bucket with a welded wear plate featuring bolt holes for optional teeth. After the job, he considered adding a bolt-on cutting edge to protect the bucket’s face during backdragging. This is a smart move: bolt-on edges are sacrificial and can be replaced without damaging the bucket shell.
He also owned a 72" tooth bucket and was evaluating larger options. A removable tooth bar could offer flexibility for switching between digging and finish grading.
Business Setup and Terminology
For branding, the operator debated using “excavating” on business cards. While accurate for digging and grading, “land services” or “site prep” may better reflect the scope of skid loader work. He also questioned whether to use “skid loader,” “skid steer,” or “Bobcat.” While “Bobcat” is a brand, it’s widely recognized and often used generically. “Skid steer” is the most technically correct and accepted term in professional circles.
Minimum Charges and Service Expansion
He proposed a $200 minimum for jobs within 30 minutes and $400 for longer travel. This is reasonable if it covers fuel, transport, and setup time. For auger work, charging per hole is fair, especially if the auger was a significant investment. Once the cost is recovered, offering it as a bundled service can attract more jobs.
He was also building an F450 dump truck to haul material. For delivery pricing, a flat fee covering fuel, insurance, and time is often better than per-mile charges, which can confuse customers.
Conclusion
This first job offered valuable lessons in pricing, technique, customer interaction, and equipment care. While underpriced, it led to referrals and practical experience. For new operators, balancing learning with profitability is key. Clear communication, controlled operation, and thoughtful upgrades can turn a side machine into a reliable income source.
