Last Updated on February 16, 2026
A skid steer is a compact machine with four wheels that can navigate confined areas inaccessible to larger, bulkier equipment. Sometimes referred to as bobcats or loaders, skid steers can perform various earthmoving tasks, from digging and leveling ground to transporting bulky materials.
A skid steer loader gets its name from the way it operates. Unlike wheel loaders, each side operates independently. The operator uses levers or joysticks to steer the wheels on each side, creating a skidding motion that allows the machine to pivot, turning left or right.
- Note: Skid steers are different from compact track loaders. Learn more here.
- Read more about skid steers:
Skid steers are so maneuverable and versatile that, with the right attachments, they can fulfill many functions in agriculture, landscaping, construction and even logistics. In this article, you’ll learn the basic best practices for how to operate a skid steer loader so you can get projects done more efficiently.
Safety First, Safety Always: Pre-Operation Safety Checks
While OSHA does not require a special license to operate a skid steer, it does require that employers provide safety training. Reliable equipment rental providers will often offer safe operator training specific to the model you’ve selected.
Before operating a skid steer, operators should perform a safety check of the following features. If anything fails inspection, get it repaired before continuing.
- Cab and Safety Features: Check the cab for cracks in the windows and mirrors and that the emergency exit is in working condition. Also check that the fire extinguisher or fire suppression is working. Ensure all lights, mirrors, visibility aids and windshield wipers are working.
- Undercarriage: Check that there is no damage to the tires, wheels or other parts or the undercarriage. Replace the tires if they are worn or damaged.
- Engine: Check that there is no damage to the belts, wires, cables and tubes. Check that all connections and terminals are clean and secure. You may also need to top-off fluid levels including oil, coolant, fuel and other fluids.
- Chassis: Check for damage to the chassis, arms and attachments. Check that the attachments are fitted securely.
Safety Tips for Working with a Skid Steer
In addition to pre-operation inspections, teams need to work together to avoid accidents such as roll-overs or crushing accidents.
- Always be aware of your surroundings.
- Don’t overload the bucket or other attachments.
- Carry loads as close to the ground as possible to prevent tipping.
- Lower the arms and turn off the engine before exiting the cab.
- Use the seatbelt and other safety equipment.
- Avoid leaning out of the cab.
What Are the Controls on a Skid Steer?
Like any piece of machinery, skid steer controls will vary between manufacturers and models, but the following list will help you learn the controls of your machine more quickly and efficiently.
Review this list and refer to the skid steer instructions in the operator’s manual to understand its unique features.
Start Controls
The starter controls for skid steers are most commonly found in the upper right corner of the cab. They will usually either be a start button or a key ignition.
Before starting the machine, you should confirm that the parking brake is on and that the controls are in neutral.
Automatic Lockout System (ALS)
Most skid steers have an automatic lockout system that automatically engages when the engine is started. This system will prevent you from operating the machine before certain safety measures are taken.
To turn off the lockout system and start using the skid steer, you will need to have your seatbelt latched and overhead safety bar in place.
Once the safety features are in place, you will be able to disengage the system with either buttons or toggles near the main instrument panel. They may be indicated by either an image of a lock or the letters ALS.
Steering Levers or Joysticks
Skid steers controls are generally set up in one of three patterns: Standard, H and ISO.
Standard Pattern:
With standard pattern controls, you use your hands to control the steering levers and your feet to control foot pedals that move the skid steer’s arms and attachments.
To move forward, press forward on both levers. To reverse, pull back on both levers. In order to turn left, you pull the left lever backward and push the right lever forward. To turn right, you do the opposite.
The arms and attachments are controlled with foot pedals. Generally, pressing the left pedal with your toe will lower the arms, while pressing with your heel will raise the arms. The bucket can be tilted forward and backward with the right toe and heel pedal.
H Pattern:
Controls in the H pattern do not use foot pedals. Instead, the hand levers will hinge to the side or pivot.
Moving the skid steer is done with the same motions as in the standard pattern.
Controlling the arms and attachments is performed by pushing and pulling the levers to the side. The boom/arms are generally controlled by the left lever. Pushing it left (or away from you) will raise the boom. Pushing it right (or toward you) will lower it.
The same motion on the right stick will tilt the bucket. Generally, pushing it to the right will close or curl the bucket, while pushing to the left will open or dump the bucket.
ISO Pattern:
Controls in the ISO pattern use two hand levers and no foot pedals, similar to the H pattern. In the ISO pattern. However, the left lever will control all movement, and the right one will control the arms and attachments.
The left joystick works as you would expect, push forward to go forward, push to the right to turn right, and so on.
The most common configuration for the right joystick is to push it forward to lower the arms and pull it back to raise them. Pushing the stick left will close or curl the bucket and pushing it right will open or dump it.
Other Important Features and Gauges
When operating a skid steer, monitor the various features and gauges. Skid steers will have typical gauges like fuel levels, engine coolant temperatures and parking brake indicators.
They may also have:
- Hydraulic Indicators and Switches: These tell you if the hydraulics are off or too hot and allow you to power attachments effectively.
- Fault Codes: Some skid steers may show fault codes to alert you of issues.
- Water-in-Fuel Indicator: This indicator will alert you of water in the fuel system.
Best Practices for Skid Steer Operation
While each make and model is slightly different, there are some steps that are often considered best practices for how to operate a skid steer loader.
1. Plan Ahead for Safety
Before operating your skid steer, examine the project site for any potential hazards and inclines. Make sure you have the right type and size of skid steer to work efficiently without damaging the area or the skid steer.
Select the appropriate attachments, and make sure they’re fitted securely. Attaching and removing attachments can vary greatly by machine, so you should review the operator’s manual to learn your machine’s procedure.
Then, set up a safety perimeter. Make sure that everyone on site knows not to come near the machine while it is operating, unless you give them an explicit go-ahead.
Lastly, put on your PPE and do your pre-operation safety checks. If anything shows signs of damage or malfunctioning, get it fixed before continuing.
2. Enter the Skid Steer with Bucket Lowered
The bucket and arms should be lowered correctly to make getting in and out easy and safe. On most skid steers, operators enter through the front, facing the seat. There will be handles on the frame to hold onto and a step or two to help you get up in the cab.
3. How to Start a Skid Steer and Disengage the Lockout System
Before starting the engine, fasten the seatbelt and lower the safety bar.
Once you start the engine with the key or start/stop button, you will have to disengage the lockout system. This system will generally only disengage if the seatbelt is fastened and the safety bar is lowered.
The lockout system can then be disengaged through either a button or switch near the main controls.
4. Test the Boom and Bucket Motions Before Driving
Before beginning work, get a feel for how this machine operates. Raise and lower the arms (or boom), according to the type of steering method your skid steer uses. Practice opening and closing the bucket or other attachments you will be using. Each machine will be slightly different in how quickly it responds. It may feel different to the operator if it is carrying a load versus when it’s empty.
5. Drive Safely: How to Use a Skid Steer’s Steering Controls
Remember, the wheels on the left side operate independently from the wheels on the right side, and different skid steers use different steering controls. Understanding your machine will help you prevent mistakes, injuries and damage.
Take time to practice how your machine handles on different surfaces. Practice turning, accelerating and stopping, using the levers and foot pedals. For example, pushing forward on the joystick often moves the skid steer in that direction. Pulling back will move it in reverse. When reversing, use your mirrors and backup cameras, if the skid steer has them.
6. Scoop and Carry Materials Low to the Ground
To load the bucket, position the skid steer just before the pile of materials you’ll scoop up. Drop the bucket to the ground and drive forward slowly. Scoop the material and close the bucket before backing away.
You should also avoid overloading the bucket, as that can also cause tipping. In addition, overloading may damage the skid steer or attachment.
When carrying materials with the skid steer, do so with the arms as low to the ground as possible without the bucket getting caught on anything. Carrying a load too high can contribute to tip-overs and block your line of sight.
7. Use Extra Caution When Dumping Materials and Shut Down Properly
Be careful when dumping material, as it is easy to injure someone or damage other machinery on the worksite if you lose control of where the material falls.
Before dumping, confirm that the location you are dumping at is clear of people and materials. Additionally, don’t raise the arms too high before dumping. It is easier to be precise with the bucket near the ground, and you can raise the arms as you dump if you need more room.
Before backing away from your dump site, lower the arms again and make sure the area is clear behind you.
When shutting down a skid steer, you should park it on a level surface and lower the attachment flat to the ground. Then, set the parking brake and cycle the controls to relieve any pressure in the hydraulics. Finally, you can remove the key or press the stop button, unbuckle and raise the safety bar.
Rent a Skid Steer for Your Next Project from Herc Rentals
A skid steer is a powerful and flexible piece of equipment for many jobs that require earthmoving, material handling or ground leveling. Choosing the right skid steer for the job helps you work more efficiently and effectively.
For your next project, contact the experts at Herc Rentals. We offer a wide selection of the latest earthmoving equipment and skid steers from top manufacturers. When you partner with us, you’ll get access to high-quality safety training and other services, like equipment transportation, that help your teams stay focused on what they do best.
Explore our fleet of skid steers or contact us directly at 1-800-432-6215 today.
