Skid Steer vs Track Loader on Sand
Updated October 9, 2026
On sand, wet lawns and soft ground, rent a compact track loader. Rubber tracks spread the weight and keep pulling where wheels spin and dig ruts. On pavement, gravel and firm ground, a wheeled skid steer is faster and easier on the surface. Both rent for $400 a day.
Side by side
| Skid steer (Kubota SSV75) | Compact track loader (Bobcat T650) | |
|---|---|---|
| Drive | Wheels | Rubber tracks |
| Operating weight | 8,157 lbs | 9,113 lbs |
| Rated operating capacity | 2,690 lbs | 2,570 lbs |
| Best on | Pavement, gravel, compacted base | Sand, mud, wet grass, finished lawns |
| Speed | Faster across a site | Slower, steadier |
| Turning on lawns | Tears up turf | Gentler, still turns some sod |
| Price | $400/day | $400/day |
Why sand changes the answer here
Most of coastal South Florida is sandy soil over a high water table. A wheeled machine puts its weight on 4 small contact patches, so in loose or wet sand it sinks, spins and digs itself in. Tracks spread the same weight over a much larger footprint, so they float and keep pushing. During the wet season (roughly May to October), even firm yards turn soft after an afternoon storm.
Pick by job
| Job | Rent |
|---|---|
| Grading a sandy yard or lot | Track loader |
| Spreading fill or sod prep on a lawn | Track loader |
| Storm cleanup on wet ground | Track loader |
| Moving gravel or base on a driveway | Skid steer |
| Loading a dumpster on pavement | Skid steer |
| Demolition debris on a slab | Skid steer |
| Backyard through a narrow gate | Mini track loader (36 in wide) |
Same price, so pick by ground
We price both at $400 a day and $1,600 a week, so the choice comes down to your site. Not sure? Text us a photo of the ground and we will tell you which one.
Questions, answered
Is a skid steer good on sand?
Not in loose or wet sand. The wheels spin and sink. A compact track loader works much better on sand.
Is a track loader better than a skid steer?
On soft ground, yes. On pavement and firm ground, a wheeled skid steer is faster and easier on the surface.
Will a track loader damage my lawn?
Less than wheels, but sharp turns still scuff sod. Make wide turns and avoid spinning in place on finished grass.
Which costs more to rent?
Neither. Both are $400 a day with Presto Yard.