For decades, Star Equipment relied on compact and full-size skid steer loaders, as well as compact track loaders, as the backbone of their rental fleet. However, recognizing the need for diversification after years of closely collaborating with customers to match the right machines to their specific jobs, the company made a strategic move eight years ago — they introduced mini skid steers to their rental fleet.
Admitting initial reservations, Rem Lawyer, rental manager for Star Equipment’s Des Moines, Iowa location, shared, “We were a little apprehensive at first. However, we quickly realized general contractors were consistently renting these machines for smaller jobs.”
“We started with one mini skid steer at each store, and in the last couple of years, we’ve significantly expanded our fleet,” he added, including Vermeer S925TX units distributed throughout the company’s four Iowa locations: Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, Waterloo and Ames.
Market demand fuels fleet growth
Lawyer attributed the substantial growth in the market to contractors recognizing the efficiency of this size of loader for many tasks that would typically require a full-size skid steer loader, which isn’t always sized to fit a contractor’s needs. As Star Equipment’s customers have uncovered numerous applications for these machines, especially when fitted with various attachments, demand has gone up.
“For fencing where a contractor used to use a two-person auger to drill holes, they’d end up wearing two people out. Now, they can put an auger on a Vermeer mini skid steer and not tie up two people all day — or exhaust them at the end of it.”
Moreover, Lawyer added that these mini skid steers can also be equipped with forks to stage posts before drilling holes.
Similar to larger skid steer loaders, attachments enable mini skid steers to be utilized year-round. During the busiest construction months (spring to fall), there’s a waiting list for these machines, but utilization is lower in the winter months. So, Star Equipment seizes opportunities to rent these machines by offering units with an angle blade or snowblower to move snow.
“We often get calls before a storm saying, ‘Hey, snow’s coming. If it accumulates enough, we want to stop by and get one,’” said Lawyer. “By simply switching out attachments, there are so many jobs our contractors can do with a mini skid steer. It comes down to matching the machine to the work.”
Focusing on one size, one brand
A key strategy employed by Star Equipment in managing their rental fleet is stocking only one model of Vermeer mini skid steers. “We found that the Vermeer S925TX is a middle-of-the-road size, so we standardized our fleet with it. And since that’s all we offer, our customers know that they’re going to get the exact model they had before, and that makes a huge difference. They always get the one that they want,” said Lawyer.
The Vermeer S925TX has specific features that enhance productivity on the job, according to Lawyer, including a rated operating capacity of 925 lb (419.6 kg) and reaching a maximum hinge pin height of 85.5 in (217.7 cm). It also boasts 24.5 hp (18.6 kW) of productive performance, 15.5 gpm (58.7 L/min) of hydraulic flow, 6 in (15.2 cm) of ground clearance, dual axis lift/steer/curl functionality, a universal mounting plate, and an option of 7-in or 9-in (17.8-cm or 22.9-cm) tracks. All these specifications contribute to allowing operators to get more work done each day.
Star Equipment rents its Vermeer S925TX mini skid steers primarily on short-term contracts (daily and weekly). Lawyer added that having Vermeer mini skid steers in their fleet has driven repeat business. “Customers appreciate the consistency and reliability of these machines,” he finished. “Having the right tool in our rental fleet for the job is the key to their success.”
To learn more about Vermeer mini skid steers, contact your local Vermeer dealer.
This article contains third-party observations, advice or experiences that do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Vermeer Corporation, its affiliates or its dealers. Testimonials and/or endorsements by contractors in specific circumstances may not be representative of normal circumstances experienced by all customers.
Vermeer Corporation reserves the right to make changes in engineering, design and specifications; add improvements; or discontinue manufacturing at any time without notice or obligation. Equipment shown is for illustrative purposes only and may display optional accessories or components specific to their global region. Mini skid steer attachments available from Vermeer dealers may be manufactured by Vermeer Corporation or other attachment manufacturers. Please contact your local Vermeer dealer for more information on machine specifications and attachments.
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