When you’re lifting, loading, moving, or stacking on the job site, your skid steer is only as useful as the attachment it’s paired with. Material handling tasks make up a huge chunk of day-to-day operations in construction, agriculture, landscaping, and warehouse logistics. The right attachment doesn’t just get the job done — it gets it done faster, safer, and more profitably.
In this blog, we’ll break down the top three must-have material handling attachments: pallet forks, grapples, and telescopic booms. We’ll cover how they work, what they’re best for, and what to look for before buying. If you’re ready to upgrade efficiency and drive more value out of your skid steer, read on.
1. Pallet Forks: The Workhorse of the Job Site
Pallet forks are the most universal material handling attachment for skid steers — and for good reason. Whether you’re moving pallets, fence posts, pipe, sod, or equipment, forks turn your skid steer into a nimble forklift that can go anywhere.
Use Cases:
- Loading/unloading materials from trucks
- Transporting palletized goods
- Handling construction or farm supplies
- Stacking lumber or fencing materials
Key Buying Factors:
- Tine length & capacity – 42″ to 48″ is common; make sure the forks can handle your heaviest loads without bending or failing.
- Frame visibility – Choose open-back designs that give the operator a clear view for precise handling, especially when aligning pallets.
- Adjustability – Look for easy-to-slide forks that can handle odd-sized or uneven loads.
- Carriage width – Wider carriages offer more stability and are better for larger materials.
Operator Insight:
Many operators prefer Class II forks for general use, but if you’re handling heavy-duty materials or oversized pallets, Class III or heavy-duty frames are worth the investment.
Pro Tip: Consider a walk-through carriage frame if you’re frequently loading/unloading on uneven terrain — it makes getting on/off easier and safer.
2. Grapples: Grip It, Move It, Clear It
Grapple attachments add a hydraulic arm or clamp to your bucket or rake — allowing you to grab, lift, and control awkward or loose materials that forks or buckets alone can’t handle.
Use Cases:
- Storm cleanup (branches, debris)
- Logging and land clearing
- Moving rocks, scrap, or demolition debris
- Removing brush and undergrowth
- Farm operations like loading hay or silage
Types of Grapples:
- Root Grapples – Ideal for clearing brush and roots without digging into the soil. Best for land prep and forestry work.
- Rock Grapples – Excellent for picking through rocky soil or handling large, irregular debris. Great for contractors and excavators.
- Industrial Grapples – Heavy-duty builds for demolition or scrapyard use. Includes reinforced tines and strong hydraulic cylinders.
- Grapple Buckets – Combines a bucket and grapple for hauling loose material and securing it during transit.
Key Buying Factors:
- Hydraulic power – Make sure your skid steer has the flow and PSI to match the grapple’s cylinder needs. Undersized machines may struggle to clamp effectively.
- Tooth spacing & tine strength – Wider gaps are better for debris, narrower for smaller items. Reinforced tines reduce flex and wear.
- Dual vs single lid – Dual lids allow better grip on uneven or unbalanced loads and improve control.
- Cylinder protection – Opt for models with guarded cylinders to prevent damage in rugged environments.
Pro Tip: Match your grapple size to your skid steer’s rated operating capacity (ROC) to avoid tipping or overloading, especially when dealing with heavy, shifting loads.
3. Telescopic Booms: Reach Without the Rig
Need to lift or place items at height, but can’t justify a telehandler or crane? A Telescopic Booms attachment converts your skid steer into a versatile mini-lift with extended reach — perfect for light aerial lifting tasks.
Use Cases:
- Lifting trusses or framing materials
- Hoisting bags of seed or fertilizer
- Hanging signs, light poles, or decorations
- Placing landscaping elements like boulders or trees
- Reaching over fences or walls without moving your machine
Key Buying Factors:
- Telescoping sections – Most models offer 6’–12′ hydraulic or manual extension. The more extension stages, the more flexible the application.
- Lift capacity – Know your skid steer’s limits and how the boom affects center of gravity. Overextending with heavy loads can cause tipping.
- Hook configuration – Some models come with multiple hook points, D-rings, or a swivel hook for safe and versatile rigging.
- Boom construction – Choose heavy-duty steel construction rated for industrial applications. Reinforced booms prevent flex or buckling under load.
Safety Note:
Always use rated lifting hardware and chains. Maintain line of sight or use a spotter when lifting above eye level or into blind zones.
Clarification:
Some refer to these as “telebooms,” but Skid Pro specifically offers telescopic boom attachments, which include telescoping capability — giving you more reach than traditional fixed booms.
Pro Tip: These attachments are ideal for compact job sites where cranes can’t fit — like residential builds, farmyards, or utility jobs near power lines.
Attachment Compatibility: Don’t Overlook the Mounting Plate
All these attachments typically use a universal skid steer quick attach plate, also known as the “Bobcat” style. But not all plates are created equal. Be sure your attachment matches your machine’s flow rating and weight class.
Consider These Factors Before You Buy:
- Hydraulic coupler compatibility
- Weight distribution and tipping load
- Maintenance access points (grease fittings, cylinder serviceability)
- Manufacturer warranty and support
Final Thoughts: Build a Versatile Fleet, One Attachment at a Time
Investing in high-quality pallet forks, grapples, and telebooms can completely transform your skid steer’s capability — and your bottom line. These attachments give you the flexibility to handle more types of jobs, reduce manual labor, and improve safety for your team.
Every job site is different, and having the right tools on hand can be the difference between making a profit and spinning your wheels.
Why Buy from Skid Pro?
- Industrial-grade attachments built for long-lasting performance
- Expert support to help match attachments with your specific skid steer model
- Fast shipping and excellent post-purchase support
Ready to get more done with fewer machines? Contact us today or check out our full line of material handling attachments.