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How Much Does a Wheel Loader Cost? (2026 Price Breakdown)
Wheel loader pricing spans an enormous range because the category runs from a compact yard loader to a 350-horsepower quarry machine. The number that matters is the one for the size class and condition your work actually requires, so this guide breaks it down by tier.
Because loaders are strong, liquid collateral with a deep used market, most are financed rather than bought outright. Know the price bands below, then size the machine to your booked material volume.
What a wheel loader costs: full breakdown
| Configuration | Typical price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Used compact / older | $10,000 – $60,000 | Owner-operator and yard work; hours and tire condition drive value |
| New compact (<100 hp) | $40,000 – $130,000 | Landscaping, agriculture, material handling |
| New mid-size (100–200 hp) | $130,000 – $180,000 | General construction and aggregate — the volume class |
| New large (200–350+ hp) | $180,000 – $500,000+ | Quarry, mining, heavy site work |
| Attachments (buckets, forks, coupler) | $2,000 – $30,000 | Quick-couplers and specialty buckets add up |
What drives the price
- Operating weight and horsepower are the biggest price factors — each size class steps the price up sharply.
- Hours, tires, and transmission condition set used values; a fresh set of loader tires alone can run $4,000–$12,000.
- New vs. used: used machines save 30–60% and finance well if the tires, hours, and drivetrain check out.
- Brand and dealer support (Cat, Komatsu, Volvo, Deere) drive resale value and uptime.
- Attachments and couplers — specialty buckets, forks, and quick-couplers add to the out-the-door cost.
Costly mistakes to avoid
- Under-inspecting a used loader — worn tires, a tired transmission, or bucket/pin wear can turn a bargain into a money pit.
- Buying more machine than the work supports; a larger loader carries a larger payment and fuel burn.
Financing a wheel loader?
Most buyers finance rather than pay cash — the equipment is collateral, which keeps rates lower than unsecured borrowing. The highest-leverage move is comparing at least two offers: a dealer or manufacturer quote against an independent lender.
See our full wheel loader financing guide for real rates, terms, a payment calculator, and what lenders look for.
Get matched with equipment lenders →Frequently asked questions
How much does a used wheel loader cost?
A used wheel loader ranges from about $10,000 for an older compact machine to $200,000 for a low-hour large unit, depending on age, hours, and condition. Compact and mid-size used loaders commonly land in the $30,000–$120,000 range.
How much is a new wheel loader?
New compact loaders (<100 hp) run $40,000–$130,000, mid-size machines (100–200 hp) $130,000–$180,000, and large production loaders (200–350+ hp) $180,000–$500,000+. Komatsu WA270-class machines list around $230,000 and WA380-class around $345,000.
Should I buy new or used?
Used dealer-sold loaders at 30–60% of new cost finance nearly as well and let your capital buy more capability, provided the tires, hours, and drivetrain check out. New wins on warranty, delivery certainty, and the lowest financing rates.
Prices are typical market ranges, not quotes, and vary by region, condition, and configuration. Browse all equipment cost guides or find your machine's financing guide.