Only a loader with the right bucket can increase productivity

When you choose a wheel loader, there are many options to weigh - size, power, technology, comfort and safety features - but perhaps the most important is the bucket. Choosing the wrong bucket can negatively impact your bottom line by reducing productivity, increasing fuel consumption and causing premature wear and tear. In fact, one wrong choice can increase your costs by 10 to 20 percent. So, how do you make the right choice? Here are three factors to consider when choosing a bucket (and loader)

1. The type of material to be handled

The density of the material plays the biggest role in bucket selection, in addition to moisture content, hardness and wear level. Choose based on the heaviest material you intend to handle most of the time. The names of the buckets - general purpose, heavy duty, abrasion resistant - usually reveal the type of material they will be handling. Keep in mind that you probably won't be able to fill a large bucket with very heavy, hard-to-pass material. A smaller bucket may be more advantageous than a larger bucket because it will allow your loader to cycle faster.

2. Bucket size

Don't fall into the myth that a bigger bucket means more production. Choosing a bucket that pushes your loader beyond the recommended capacity limit - even by just a few percentage points - will accelerate wear, reduce component life and risk unexpected breakdowns. Any short-term gains you realize are likely to be wiped out by repairs and downtime. Instead, follow this simple three-step process.

Consider the capacity of the truck you are loading.

Determine how much cargo you need to move each day.

Choose the bucket size that will give you the ideal pass match.

In many cases, first determine the size of your bucket, then choose a wheel loader that can accommodate it, not the other way around.

3. Bucket design

Choosing the cheapest bucket is not always the best strategy. Two buckets may look the same, but differ greatly in design, making the less expensive option the more costly one. The following are some design features to consider.

Harder, thicker plate material for longer bucket life

High-quality edges, side blades and teeth that are worthwhile in terms of productivity, reusability and ease of installation

Longer bucket base plate for reduced cycle time

Curved side plates and integrated splash guards for improved material retention

Wear protectors and extra guards to reduce damage and extend bucket life

Quick coupling for increased productivity if you change buckets frequently

Add-ons such as bolt-on teeth and cutting edges make a bucket even more versatile