As farm size and equipment technology have evolved, so have the demands of on-farm material handling.
Farm supply outlets have moved from retailing fertilizer in 20 kilogram bags to instead provide bulk amounts. Seed and engine oil are now available in 1,000 kilogram totes and containers, all of which can only be moved by machinery.
The size of tractors equipped with front-end loaders has grown to keep up with the new reality, but there are other machinery options that can move things around the farm better than a conventional loader tractor.
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Skid steers and telehandlers are increasingly common in farm fleets. Although telehandlers are common on European farms, they’re still gaining acceptance with farmers here.
Manufacturers recognize the functionality of telehandlers on farms and are designing models to specifically appeal to producers. But deciding to add what might be an entirely new type of machine to the farm fleet requires a little consideration, and maybe a chance to get behind the wheel to see what it can do.
Today’s retail sales practices for farm machinery can make it difficult for potential buyers to try a machine before making a decision. This year, at Canada’s Outdoor Farm Show, visitors can do exactly that.
There will be ride and drive stations for telehandlers, skid steers and compact loaders. That should be useful for anyone who is considering which of these machine types to buy.
Telehandlers and skid steers are both capable of getting in and out of places most large front-end loader tractors can’t. Skid steers can turn completely around in their own length, but they are typically not very capable in soft ground and lack fast road speed.
Telehandlers often include four-wheel steering for enhanced maneuverability as well as boom reaches up to nine metres or more. They’re also capable on the road, matching the top speed of a farm tractor.
At Canada’s Outdoor Farm Show, it’s possible to drive some of those machines, see how they feel, compare them with other machines and other brands’ offerings all in one place.
There are other equipment demonstrations to watch at Canada’s Outdoor Farm Show 2024:
Sprayer ride and drive
The popular sprayer ride and drive will be found in the Southwest Demo Field, where sprayers can be driven in a 1,500-foot space. Knowledgeable representatives can answer questions.
Forage baling demonstrations
Day 1 and 2: Baling — Check out the latest technology in round and square balers to learn about best options for efficiently getting forage off the field.
Day 3: Bale wrapping — This field demo will showcase a variety of machinery options and tactics to get freshly baled forage wrapped and preserved.
Spring tillage demonstrations
Learn how to create the perfect seed bed and see the newest technology in spring field preparation.
