What to Consider When Spec’ing Out a Compact Crawler Carrier

Compact crawler carriers are small yet powerful material haulers that can operate in confined spaces and fragile areas that cannot support a heavy dump truck. These machines offer the ideal combination of size and strength so crews can move dirt, concrete, debris and more through backyards, between buildings, on remote jobsites and beyond.

“At any size, crawler carriers are great for hauling heavy loads over rough or soft terrain,” says Dylan Freeman, product manager, Takeuchi-US. “While a truck can do the trick on paved or hard-packed surfaces, a crawler carrier is invaluable when the ground is hilly or muddy and when your jobsite is too small to accommodate a truck’s turning radius. Because compact crawler carriers are equipped with tracks, they can tackle steep slopes with ease due to their low center of gravity, using their tracks for better grip and stability and preventing them from tipping over.”

Equipped with rubber tracks and a compact design, these machines can support operators in numerous applications. They can also continue work when weather or jobsite conditions become unfavorable.

“Any jobsite where wheeled units cannot go benefits from crawler carriers,” says Monica Coenen, marketing director at Terramac. “These versatile units serve a wide variety of industries from general construction to environmental to pipeline to utility and so many more. Contractors have come to rely on these machines to keep their crews working when site conditions would otherwise halt production. For example, when unfavorable weather events occur, the ground conditions often warrant low ground pressure machines [like crawler carriers] because wheeled vehicles would get stuck.”

Features to Consider

If you’re in the market for a compact crawler carrier, it’s important to know what features, options and technology to look for in a machine. First, you should pay attention to the size of the unit so it can access your jobsite and move the materials it needs to. Then…

“The machine’s payload capacity should align with the volume and weight of the materials it will need to transport,” says Freeman. “If you’re moving large volumes of material, a crawler carrier with a high payload capacity can reduce the number of trips required. For smaller tasks, a dumper with a lower payload might be sufficient and more cost effective. And while larger crawler carriers may have larger payloads, they can be challenging to maneuver in tight spaces.”

Rotation

Bed rotation is another feature to consider when looking at a compact crawler carrier. Machines that boast rotating beds make it easier for operators to dump materials in any direction without repositioning the machine. Freeman says rotating beds are especially useful in confined or narrow spaces where turning the machine isn’t feasible. Bonus: Rotating beds also reduce wear and tear on tracks. This is because the machine doesn’t need to pivot or make sharp turns as frequently.

Tracks

Speaking of tracks, buyers need to look at a machine’s track width and ensure it can handle their applications. Durability is also important.

“Wider tracks help distribute weight more evenly and improve stability, particularly on soft or uneven ground,” says Freeman. “Assess the ground conditions where you’ll be working and choose a compatible track width for optimal performance and minimal ground disturbance.”

Comfort

Operator comfort and accessibility are key when selecting a compact crawler carrier. As the saying goes, “A comfortable operator is a productive one,” so be sure your machine is packed with features like intuitive controls, air conditioning, a comfy seat and a radio. Good visibility, safety features and ease of maintenance should also be considered.

“Operators demand comfort and safety, and all Terramac carriers adhere to the strictest safety standards,” says Coenen. “Our cabs feature all the bells and whistles to keep operators comfortable. Some of the latest updates include: multiple functions on the joystick for enhanced control; additional cab conveniences such as sliding windows, removable front windshield grate, USB ports, radio, cameras and a touchscreen monitoring system; and a one-piece tilt forward hood for easy access for routine maintenance.”

Other considerations include the carrier’s travel speed, gradeability and stability. Freeman points out that high gradeability means that the crawler carrier can operate on steep slopes or inclines without compromising stability. The machine’s low center of gravity and wider tracks generally enhance stability. Don’t forget the engine’s power and performance.

“Higher engine power is beneficial for handling heavier loads and challenging terrain, but it may also increase fuel consumption,” says Freeman. “Match your operational needs to the machine’s engine power for optimal performance and efficiency.”

Options

In the market for a compact crawler carrier? Take a look at some options from four manufacturers below.

Takeuchi-US

The TCR50-2 — Takeuchi’s first compact crawler carrier — provides operators an efficient machine for moving heavy materials across challenging terrain. Introduced in June 2024, the TCR50-2 offers a 65-degree dumping angle and 8,157-lb maximum loading weight. Freeman says the machine allows operators to carry up to 2.7 cu yds of material while rotating and dumping it in a single cycle. The TCR50-2 can rotate its dump bed 180 degrees, which reduces the need to constantly reposition the machine. This rotation also helps protect the machine’s rubber tracks. Takeuchi’s TCR50-2 is loaded with features that promote efficient and safe operation.

“The TCR50-2’s operator’s station features an intuitive 5.7-in. multi-information color display with standard 180-degree rearview camera,” says Freeman. “Hydraulic pilot controls deliver smooth operation for both travel and dump body functions, while the foot throttle efficiently adjusts engine speed. A customizable travel alarm can be adjusted to sound for forward and reverse travel or only when the unit is put into reverse. Well-positioned grip steps and handlebars provide steady access to service areas at the top of the machine.”

Terramac

Two models in Terramac’s compact crawler carrier line include the RT6 and RT7R. According to Coenen, the RT6 can haul up to 12,000 lbs of materials across soft, muddy or delicate terrain while exerting only 5.3 psi. The RT6 boasts a width of 8 ft, 2 in., which allows the machine to access hard-to-reach areas and cross narrow paths. Its dimensions allow the RT6 to be transported on tag trailers, reducing logistical challenges. The RT7R is Terramac’s smallest 360-degree rotating carrier. This model offers operators enhanced visibility with its 360-degree rotation plus front and rear camera options.

“This unit brings even more versatility to a project with its rotating upper chassis,” says Coenen. “Not only is site access a breeze but the ability to track in and out of tight spaces without turning the tracks provides further benefits in minimizing the ground disturbance. This unit enhances operator safety with the operator’s ability to always maintain a forward-facing position and improves material placement as it can dump at any angle and on the move.”

Coenen adds that both the RT6 and RT7R units help contractors tackle challenges such as limited access roads, unpredictable weather conditions and strict regulatory or environmental requirements.

Kato

Kato’s crawler carrier lineup comprises five sizes with payload capacities ranging from 8,100 to 22,000 lbs. These machines can be customized for many different uses — making them a great rental option.

“Smaller crawler carriers are very popular rental items,” says Mick Heibert, crawler carrier product manager for Kato/Compact Excavator Sales. “These are used in landscaping and concrete applications for moving materials around homes, businesses and any tight areas.”

Kato’s smallest crawler is the IC37. The machine has a 6,400-lb transport weight with an 8,100-lb payload capacity. With a dump bed capacity of 2-plus yds, the IC37 can be easily side-loaded with pallets of material or dumping aggregate. Operators can add attachments to increase the IC37’s versatility to excel in various stages of construction. Need something larger? Kato has you covered with its IC55.

“The IC55 is the same rugged package, but it is larger,” says Heibert. “The transport weight for this unit is 14,200 lbs, with the available payload being 11,000 lbs. With many different sizes of carriers, the most important thing to know is your use and end goal for what you want to accomplish. As the saying goes, size matters.”

Prinoth

The Panther T6 from Prinoth is a great choice for operators working in the pipeline, utility, construction and power electric industries. It offers a roomy, comfortable cab, as well as diverse capabilities thanks to different implements. A high payload-to-weight ratio, off-road ability, great visibility and compact size are all additional perks.

“Customers are trying to do more with less, so smaller units are getting more popular,” says Eric Fatyol, product manager for crawler carriers at Prinoth. “Smaller crawler carriers offer the benefits of being able to operate on smaller jobsites with less machine footprint. The Prinoth Panther T6 can be configured as a dumper, flat deck or bare chassis unit. This is very important for utility and oil and gas contractors.”

In late 2024, Prinoth announced the official opening of its newly expanded production facility in Granby, Canada. The company says this significant investment of $25 million marks a major milestone in the company’s continued commitment to innovation, growth and sustainability for the future.

Pam Kleineke is managing editor of Compact Equipment.