The skid steer loader is one of the most versatile compact machines on a construction site — fast, manoeuvrable, and capable of running dozens of different attachments with a quick hitch change. When the work changes or the fleet refreshes, skid steers are consistently among the most actively traded compact plant in the UK used market.
If you own a skid steer and you're thinking about selling, this guide covers what your machine is likely worth in 2026, what brands and specs hold value best, and the most straightforward way to get it sold.
What Is a Skid Steer Loader?
A skid steer loader is a compact, rigid-frame, engine-powered machine with lift arms used to attach a variety of tools or attachments. Unlike a conventional loader, steering is achieved by varying the speed of the wheels on each side — the wheels on one side rotate faster than the other, causing the machine to skid or pivot on the spot. This makes the skid steer exceptionally manoeuvrable in confined spaces.
Key features:
- Rigid frame — no articulation point; steering by differential wheel speed
- Vertical or radial lift path — vertical lift gives greater reach at height; radial lift gives more reach at mid-range
- Universal skid steer quick hitch — the vast majority of skid steers use a standardised attachment plate, allowing a huge range of buckets, forks, breakers, sweepers, augers, and specialist attachments to be swapped quickly
- Compact footprint — designed to work in spaces too tight for conventional loaders or excavators
Skid steer loaders are distinct from compact track loaders (CTLs) — similar machines fitted with rubber tracks rather than wheels, which offer better flotation on soft ground. We buy CTLs alongside wheeled skid steers.
What Skid Steer Brands Do We Buy?
At Plant Machinery Trading we buy all makes of skid steer loader and compact track loader, including:
Bobcat — the market-leading skid steer brand globally
Bobcat is synonymous with skid steer loaders worldwide, and in the UK used market it commands the strongest brand premium of any skid steer manufacturer. Models include:
- S510 / S530 / S550 — the compact range; 49–74hp; the most common Bobcat models in the UK used market
- S590 / S630 / S650 — mid-range; higher operating capacity; popular with plant hire companies and construction contractors
- S740 / S770 / S850 — larger, higher-lift capacity machines for more demanding operations
- T450 / T550 / T595 / T650 / T770 — the compact track loader range (CTL equivalents)
Caterpillar (CAT)
- CAT 226D3 / 232D3 / 236D3 — compact range
- CAT 242D3 / 246D3 / 262D3 — mid-range; popular with UK contractors
- CAT 272D3 / 289D3 — high-flow, larger capacity variants
JCB
- JCB 135 / 150 / 155 — JCB's wheeled skid steer range
- JCB 135T / 150T — compact track loader variants
Case Construction
- Case SR130 / SR175 / SR210 / SR250 — wheeled range
- Case TR270 / TV380 — compact track loader variants
Gehl
- Gehl R165 / R190 / R220 / R260 — consistent UK market presence
New Holland
- New Holland L218 / L220 / L225 / L228 — solid alternative with good parts availability
Manitou
- Manitou 1650 R / 2050 R — radial lift skid steers from the French specialist
We also buy Mustang, ASV, Takeuchi, Kubota, Wacker Neuson, and Volvo compact loaders. All ages, all conditions.
What Is My Skid Steer Worth in 2026?
Skid steer values depend heavily on brand, hours, condition, and attachment setup. Bobcat commands a consistent premium over most competitors; CAT sits just behind.
| Model | Year | Hours | Approx. Value (ex VAT) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bobcat S510 | 2019–2022 | 1,000–3,000 | £14,000–£22,000 |
| Bobcat S550 / S590 | 2019–2022 | 1,000–3,000 | £18,000–£28,000 |
| Bobcat S650 / S740 | 2019–2022 | 1,000–3,000 | £22,000–£36,000 |
| Bobcat T550 (CTL) | 2019–2022 | 1,000–3,000 | £22,000–£34,000 |
| Bobcat T650 / T770 (CTL) | 2019–2022 | 1,000–3,000 | £28,000–£44,000 |
| CAT 246D3 / 262D3 | 2018–2021 | 1,500–3,500 | £16,000–£26,000 |
| CAT 272D3 / 289D3 | 2018–2021 | 1,500–3,500 | £22,000–£34,000 |
| JCB 150 / 155 | 2018–2021 | 1,500–3,500 | £14,000–£22,000 |
| Case SR175 / SR210 | 2018–2021 | 1,500–3,500 | £12,000–£20,000 |
| Gehl R190 / R220 | 2017–2020 | 2,000–4,000 | £10,000–£16,000 |
Indicative values. Cab spec, tyre condition, attachment setup, and service history all affect actual price. Get a free valuation at plantmachinerytrading.co.uk
What Affects the Value of a Used Skid Steer?
Brand — Bobcat First
In the UK skid steer market, brand matters more than in most plant categories. Bobcat is the default choice for most buyers — the name is trusted, parts and service support through Bobcat's dealer network are well-established, and the resale market is more active for Bobcat than any other brand. A 2020 Bobcat S550 will consistently achieve more than an equivalent-spec CAT 242D3 or Case SR175 of the same year and hours — not because the machines are necessarily better, but because more buyers seek Bobcat specifically.
CAT sits in a strong second position. JCB performs well in the UK domestic market given the brand's broader familiarity. Case and Gehl sit slightly below these on resale values, though the machines themselves are well-regarded.
Operating Hours
Under 2,500 hours on a post-2018 machine is considered low and commands a premium. 2,500–5,000 hours is the main market. Above 5,000 hours, buyers start to factor in chain/drive system wear, hydraulic pump condition, and lift arm pivot wear, all of which become more significant as hours accumulate.
Tyres (Wheeled Models)
Skid steer tyres are expensive — a set of four can run to £1,500–£3,000 depending on size. Worn or damaged tyres are factored directly into offers. Good tyre condition supports value; marginal tyres reduce it. If your machine is on its second or third set of tyres, that's a sign of significant use even at moderate hour readings.
Tracks (CTL Models)
For compact track loaders, rubber track condition is the most scrutinised element. Track replacement on a mid-size CTL can cost £3,000–£6,000 for a pair. Track life depends heavily on what ground the machine has been working on — abrasive surfaces accelerate wear dramatically. Buyers will check track thickness, side lugs, and any cracking or chunking. Track at 50% or below is reflected in lower offers.
Cab Specification
A fully glazed, enclosed cab with heating, air conditioning, and joystick controls commands a clear premium over a simple ROPS frame or open cab. Buyers running skid steers in all-weather UK conditions particularly value a comfortable cab, and machines with full cab spec sell faster and at better prices than equivalent open machines.
Vertical Lift vs Radial Lift
Vertical lift arms (straight lift path to maximum height) are preferred for pallet and material handling where maximum reach at full height is important — loading trucks, working at height. Radial lift arms are preferred for general loading, digging, and ground-level work. The preference depends on the buyer's application; most UK buyers favour vertical lift for construction work.
Attachment Setup
A skid steer selling with a full set of attachments — bucket, pallet forks, hydraulic breaker — is worth more as a package than as a bare machine. Attachments that are compatible with the standardised skid steer hitch are broadly applicable across brands and add real value if included. List all attachments clearly when requesting a valuation.
High-Flow Hydraulics
High-flow hydraulic systems (typically 110+ litres per minute flow rate) are required to run demanding attachments such as cold planers, mulchers, and high-powered augers. If your machine has high-flow hydraulics, it significantly broadens the buyer pool for specialist applications and commands a premium over standard-flow equivalents.
Service History
A documented, consistent service history — oil and filter changes at correct intervals, drive chain lubrication records, hydraulic system maintenance — adds buyer confidence and supports a stronger price. Bobcat dealer service history is particularly valued.
Skid Steer vs Compact Track Loader — Which Holds Value Better?
In the UK used market, compact track loaders (CTLs) generally hold value slightly better than equivalent wheeled skid steers at comparable hours and age. This is partly because tracks allow the machine to work on softer ground and in more conditions than a wheeled equivalent, which broadens the buyer pool.
However, tracks are consumable and expensive to replace — so a CTL at high hours with worn tracks can actually trade at a discount compared to a wheeled equivalent in better condition. The value advantage of CTL over wheeled skid steer is most pronounced when track condition is good.
How to Sell Your Skid Steer
Option 1: Sell Directly to Plant Machinery Trading
The most straightforward route. We buy skid steer loaders and compact track loaders of all brands, sizes, and conditions across the UK.
- Free valuation within 24 hours — no obligation
- Same-day payment — bank transfer on collection
- Free UK-wide collection — we come to you
- No fees or commission — the price we quote is what you receive
- All conditions accepted — high hours, worn tyres/tracks, non-running
Option 2: Auction
Plant auctions sell skid steers regularly, and Bobcat in particular attracts competitive bidding. Fees, premiums, and pricing uncertainty apply.
Option 3: Private Sale
Auto Trader Plant, Plant Pages, and Machinery Trader all list skid steers. Bobcat machines sell relatively quickly privately; less common brands take longer.
What Paperwork Do You Need?
- Proof of ownership — original purchase invoice
- CE Declaration of Conformity — for UK buyers
- Service and maintenance records
- Finance settlement letter — if subject to HP or conditional sale
Related Guides
- How to Sell Your JCB Machinery in the UK
- Sell My Dumper — Complete UK Guide
- Scrapping vs Selling Plant Machinery — Which Pays More?
Get Your Free Skid Steer Valuation
Find out what your skid steer or compact track loader is worth in today's market. Free, fast, and no obligation.
Phone: 0161 432 1477 · Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm
Email: info@plantmachinerytrading.co.uk
Address: 279 Didsbury Road, Stockport, SK4 3JH