SKID STEER RENTAL RATES & COSTS IN CANADA
Skid steers and compact track loaders are the Swiss Army knives of the job site — and because a huge attachment ecosystem rides on them, the machine rate is only part of the story. Rental rates are moderate and very duration-sensitive.
This guide breaks down skid steer rental costs in Canada and how attachments and track-versus-wheel choices change what you pay.
Quick answer
It typically costs $180–$900 per day to rent a skid steer in Canada. Weekly rates run about 3–4× the daily rate and monthly rates about 3–4× the weekly, which lowers the effective day rate for longer projects. Delivery, an operator and insurance are usually quoted separately, and owners set the final price, confirmed when you e-sign your rental contract.
SKID STEER RENTAL RATES BY SIZE
Recommended guideline rates in CAD, from real catalog data. Owners set the final price, locked in at contract. See how skid steers compare nationally on the Canada Rental Rate Index →
| Size class | Daily | Weekly | Monthly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compact (up to 66 HP) | $180–$505 | $720–$2,020 | $1,945–$6,050 |
| Mid-size (66–84 HP) | $280–$530 | $1,105–$2,100 | $2,875–$6,300 |
| Large (84+ HP) | $340–$900 | $1,360–$3,500 | $3,535–$10,500 |
QUICK COST ESTIMATE
Estimated total
Ballpark only — based on typical catalog rates and does not include delivery, operator, fuel, or insurance.
Skid steer rental costs in Canada typically run about $250–$450 per day, with weekly rates landing around 3–4× the daily price and monthly rates roughly 10–12×. The skid steer is one of the most-rented machines in the country because it's compact, tows on a standard trailer, and takes dozens of attachments — so you can often pick it up yourself and skip delivery fees.
What determines the price. The main drivers are engine size and rated operating capacity (a larger, higher-lift machine costs more), how long you rent it, delivery, and attachments. A standard bucket is usually included; specialty attachments like augers, breakers, grapples, trenchers, mulchers and pallet forks are billed separately and can often be added at checkout.
Wheeled vs. tracked. Wheeled skid steers are cheaper to rent and fine on hard, level ground. Compact track loaders (CTLs) rent for more but float over soft, wet or sloped ground with far less rutting — worth the extra if you're working on turf or mud.
Costs beyond the base rate. Budget for delivery and pickup (by distance, or free within a set radius from some owners), fuel (return it topped up), attachments, and an optional damage waiver or your own insurance.
How to keep the cost down. Rent by the week if the job runs more than three or four days, tow it yourself when you can, and match the machine size to the work — a mid-frame skid steer handles most landscaping, grading and material-handling jobs without paying for a large-frame machine. On HeavyRentals you compare real rates from local owners so you can see the true market price before you book.
These are guideline rates from real catalog data; each owner sets the final price, locked in on your e-signed contract.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
In Canada, expect roughly $250–$450 per day for a standard skid steer. A full week usually costs about 3–4× the daily rate, and a month about 10–12× — so longer rentals are much cheaper per day.
A general-purpose bucket is normally included. Specialty attachments — augers, breakers, grapples, trenchers, mulchers, pallet forks — are rented separately and can usually be added when you book.
No special licence is required to operate one on private property, but many jobsites require operator training or certification. If you would rather not run it yourself, you can add a certified operator to the rental.
Choose wheels for hard, level ground and the lowest rate. Choose a compact track loader for soft, wet or sloped ground — it floats better and rutts less, though it rents for more.
Most skid steers fit on a standard equipment trailer behind a 3/4-ton truck, so many renters pick them up to avoid delivery fees. Confirm the machine and attachment weight against your trailer and truck rating first.
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