Backhoe loaders

Backhoe loaders combine a front loader bucket with a rear digging arm on a wheeled tractor-style chassis. They dig trenches, load trucks, backfill, move material and travel between nearby sites on their own wheels. This mix of tasks makes them common with utility contractors, municipalities and general builders.

When comparing backhoe loaders, look at operating weight and engine power first. On the digging side, maximum digging depth, reach and loading height matter, along with whether an extendable dipper is fitted. On the loader side, compare bucket capacity, lift capacity and dump height. Overall length, width and height, wheelbase, turning radius and travel speed matter for roading and transport. Published values often depend on the dipper and bucket options listed.

Across the 18 models listed here, operating weight ranges from about 6,904 to 11,698 kg (15,221 to 25,790 lb). Brands covered: Case, Caterpillar, JCB, John Deere.