A mini loader — also called a compact loader, skid steer or compact loader — is a versatile machine designed to load, move and handle materials in tight spaces. Weighing between 700 and 1,800 kg, it stands out for its agility and its ability to turn on the spot thanks to skid steering.
Unlike a mini excavator that digs, the mini loader is above all a transport and handling machine. The two are complementary: the excavator digs and loads, the loader moves and spreads.
How does a mini loader work?
Skid steering
The two sides are driven independently: to turn, you slow one side while keeping the other going. The machine pivots on the spot (360° rotation) with no turning radius — its main advantage in confined spaces.
The hydraulic lift system
The arm is driven by double-acting cylinders (150 to 250 bar). Higher-end models have an auxiliary hydraulic flow to power attachments (sweeper, mulcher, compactor).
The hydrostatic transmission
The engine drives a pump that feeds hydraulic motors at the wheels/tracks: no gearbox, continuous variation, strong traction at low speed — ideal for pushing or working on slopes.
Wheels or tracks: which to choose?
Wheeled: higher speed (up to 5.5 km/h), ideal on hard ground (concrete, asphalt), doesn't damage paved surfaces, simple maintenance, from €6,336 excl. VAT. Tracked: superior traction and stability on soft ground, excellent grip on slopes and wet ground, lower ground pressure, from €7,500 excl. VAT.
As a rule: wheels for concrete, asphalt and buildings; tracks for muddy, sandy or grassy ground, or slopes.
The main uses
- Construction: loading rubble, supplying materials, site clean-up
- Farming and livestock: fodder, cleaning out barns, handling bales
- Landscaping: topsoil, gravel
- Local authorities: snow clearing, road maintenance
- Industry and logistics: pallets, warehouse cleaning
How to choose your mini loader
- Load capacity: 150 to 380 kg
- Bucket capacity: 0.08 to 0.15 m³
- Lift height: up to 2.47 m
- Type of ground: wheels (hard) or tracks (soft)
- Engine power: 9.7 to 15 kW
- Access width: from 950 mm
The 6 CZN models compared
| Model | Type | Load | Bucket | Lift | Price excl. VAT |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LTH 280 W (LEITE) | Wheels | 150 kg | 0.08 m³ | 1.80 m | €6,336 |
| SJ-460 W (SONCA) | Wheels | 400 kg | 0.12 m³ | 2.45 m | €7,500 |
| SJ-460 T (SONCA) | Tracks | 400 kg | 0.12 m³ | 2.45 m | €7,500 |
| LTH 380 W (LEITE) | Wheels | 300 kg | 0.12 m³ | 2.35 m | €9,250 |
| SJ-490 W (SONCA) | Wheels | 350 kg | 0.13 m³ | 2.47 m | €9,500 |
| LTH 380 T (LEITE) | Tracks | 380 kg | 0.15 m³ | 2.40 m | €9,750 |
The LTH 280 W suits individuals and landscapers (light loads). The tracked LTH 380 T (380 kg, 15 kW) targets intensive all-terrain professional use.
Available attachments
Loading bucket (standard), pallet forks (turn the machine into a forklift), a hydraulic rotary sweeper (roads, car parks), a toothed bucket (light ripping, mixing), a snow/grading blade.
Safety and good practice
Before starting: check the fluid levels and the condition of the wheels/tracks, and clear the area. While working: travel with the bucket 20–30 cm off the ground, never exceed the rated capacity, go up and down slopes head-on, watch for overhead lines, and never carry passengers. Certification: in France, CACES R482 category F (walk-behind) or C1 (ride-on) for professional use; none for private use.
6 mini loaders from €6,336 excl. VAT
Wheels or tracks, 24-month warranty, France-based after-sales, financing over 12 to 60 months.
Maintenance basics
- Engine oil change: every 200 to 250 h
- Filters (air, oil, fuel): check every 50 h
- Greasing the joints: every 8 to 10 h
- Hydraulic level: before each use
- Tyres (wheels): weekly; track tension: monthly
Well maintained, a mini loader reaches 5,000 to 8,000 hours. A service log is supplied with every machine.
Financing and ROI calculation
Landscaper scenario: renting 60 days/year × €300 = €18,000/year. Buying the LTH 380 W (€9,250 excl. VAT) on a 48-month lease ≈ €210/month (€2,520/year) + €400 of maintenance = €2,920/year. A saving of €15,080 in the first year, paying off in under 8 months.
| Model | Price excl. VAT | 36 months | 48 months |
|---|---|---|---|
| LTH 280 W | €6,336 | ~€197 | ~€153 |
| SJ-460 W/T | €7,500 | ~€233 | ~€181 |
| LTH 380 W | €9,250 | ~€288 | ~€223 |
| SJ-490 W | €9,500 | ~€295 | ~€229 |
| LTH 380 T | €9,750 | ~€303 | ~€235 |
For VAT-registered businesses, leasing payments are fully tax-deductible.
Mini loader FAQ
What is the difference from a mini excavator?
The mini loader moves materials at the surface with its front bucket; the mini excavator digs with its articulated arm. They are complementary.
Can it be used inside a building?
Yes, if the dimensions and the floor allow. Wheeled models are preferable. The LTH 280 W (950 mm) fits most accessible spaces.
Do you need a special licence?
For professional use, CACES R482 depending on the configuration. For private use, no certification. A handover session is included.
Can a mini loader replace a mini excavator for digging?
No. It strips the first few centimetres but does not dig deep. Beyond 20–30 cm, the mini excavator is essential.
What lifespan?
Over 5,000 to 8,000 hours with regular maintenance — 12 to 20 years at 400 h/year.