If you are thinking about buying a used skid steer, December may not be the month you expect to shop, but it is one of the best times of the year to find solid machines at fair prices. End-of-year tax planning, slow-season inventory shifts, and new-model turnovers all work in your favor this time of year.
This guide will help you understand why December can mean better deals, more choices, and faster delivery.
Why December Is a Strong Month for Used Skid Steer Buyers
1. More Trade-Ins Hit the Market
Contractors often trade in older machines at the end of the year so they can buy new equipment before December 31. This helps them use Section 179 deductions, and it increases the number of used units available.
More trade-ins often mean:
- More skid steer brands and model years to choose from
- Better odds of finding machines with the features you want
- Less pressure to settle for whatever is available
2. Dealers Want Clean Year-End Inventory
December is the month most equipment dealers work to clear inventory. Machines that have been on the lot for a while, including used units, often become more negotiable.
This can mean:
- Lower prices
- Better financing options
- Bonus value like fresh service, included attachments, or delivery
3. Winter Slows Down Buyer Competition
When the weather turns, equipment shopping slows. With fewer buyers in the market, you get more time to inspect machines, compare options, and make a decision without someone else buying it first.
If you have struggled to find the right machine in spring or summer, December may be the easier window.
4. End-of-Year Tax Strategy
Many businesses buy used machines in December for Section 179 benefits. Used skid steers often qualify if they are new to your business and placed in service by December 31.
A quick conversation with your tax professional can confirm whether a year-end purchase makes sense for your situation.
What to Look for When Buying a Used Skid Steer
December brings good deals, but a careful inspection still matters. Here are the main things to check.
1. Operating Hours
Hours are not the full story, but they help set expectations. Machines between 1,000 and 2,500 hours are often a sweet spot in price and reliability.
2. Engine Condition
When you start the engine:
- Listen for rattling or grinding
- Watch for white or blue smoke
- Check for uneven idle
Service records are a bonus. A well-maintained diesel engine can run reliably for thousands of hours.
3. Hydraulics
Hydraulic problems are expensive. Test:
- Lift and tilt response
- Smoothness under load
- Slow or shaky cycling
- Leaks near lines and cylinders
4. Frame and Structure
Look closely at loader arms, the coupler, and the main frame. Check for:
- Cracks
- Fresh welds
- Bent components
- Heavy rust
Cosmetic wear is fine. Structural damage is not.
5. Tires or Tracks
These are high-cost wear items.
- On wheeled machines, check for deep cracks or uneven wear.
- On tracked machines, inspect lugs, sprockets, and tension adjustment.
6. Cab and Controls
Sit in the cab and test the basics:
- Joysticks or foot controls
- Safety bar
- Gauges and switches
- Heater and AC
A clean cab often points to an owner who took care of the rest of the machine.
Extra Tip: Look at Attachment Packages
If you are adding a used skid steer to your fleet, December is a smart time to buy skid steer attachments too. Dealers often bundle forks, grapples, buckets, and brush cutters at better prices near year-end. This saves time and helps you start work right away.
Final Take
December is a strong month to shop for a used skid steer. You often get more inventory, less competition, and better pricing due to year-end turnover. The key is to inspect carefully and choose a machine that fits your work and budget.