A few years ago, finding a new skid steer became surprisingly difficult. Dealers had empty lots, delivery dates stretched for months and prices climbed fast. Even though manufacturing has improved since the peak of the supply chain crisis, the equipment market still hasn’t fully stabilized.
Farmers, homesteaders and small contractors across East Tennessee and the surrounding Appalachian region still face limited inventory and long wait times for popular machines, showing why new skid steers are still hard to find despite production recovery.
Many buyers have gravitated toward used skid steers instead. A well-maintained used machine may give you faster availability, lower up-front costs and enough power for daily property work. The key is finding a reputable regional dealer with strong service support and reliable inventory.
The Lingering Equipment Shortage
The skid steer shortage started during the global supply chain disruptions that affected manufacturing, shipping and parts availability. Heavy machinery manufacturers struggled to source steel, electronics, hydraulic components and tires at the same pace as demand was rising.
Demand has increased across construction, landscaping and agriculture. Many small farms and rural property owners have begun investing in compact equipment that can handle multiple jobs with one machine. While new stock is starting to trickle into sales points, the deficit remains a concern.
With the shortage of new machines, some buyers began looking at used options, but stock levels are trending down, and new stock prices are reaching upper levels. This illustrates that there’s still a perceived market shortage of various construction machinery, such as skid steers, backhoes and mini excavators. Production has stabilized, but several issues still challenge availability today:
- Backlog orders: Many manufacturers still need to fulfill delayed fleet and dealer orders.
- High demand for compact machinery: Skid steers remain among the most versatile machines for small-acreage and mixed-use properties. Their versatility has made them increasingly valuable alongside other smart farming technologies used on modern farms and homesteads.
- Longer replacement cycles: Owners hold on to machines longer because new equipment costs remain high, which reduces the number of used machines on the market.
- Parts delays: Some replacement parts still take longer to arrive than before.
3 Regional Skid Steer Dealers
Regional dealers stand out for inventory, local support and long-term service.
1. Stowers Cat® — Best for the Tri-Cities and Kingsport Area
Stowers Cat offers outstanding long-term after-sales support and is one of the strongest options in East Tennessee. As an authorized Cat® dealer, it carries new and used skid steers known for durability, lifting power and better resale value, and it has rental options too for seasonal work. The company focuses heavily on customer service before and after purchase, which matters when you rely on equipment for daily property work and urgent farm projects. Cat machines offer reliability and dealer commitment that buyers highly value.
Key Features
- Certified used Cat machines: Access to inspected, proven machines suited for agriculture, landscaping and construction.
- Factory-trained service technicians: All repairs and inspections use genuine Cat parts.
- Financing support: Staff helps match buyers with equipment and financing options that fit their workload and budget.
- Long-term service network: Ongoing maintenance plans help reduce downtime.
2. Turkey Creek Kubota — Best for the Knoxville Area
Turkey Creek Kubota works well for buyers who want compact heavy-duty machinery suited for smaller farms, homesteads and acreage maintenance. Kubota skid steers have a strong reputation for versatility, manageability and low operating costs. The dealership specializes in the brand name, which means buyers get focused product knowledge and dedicated service. Its machines provide a versatile base for a wide range of attachments that till, dig, cut, pull and more. Inventory is limited to the Kubota ecosystem.
Key Features
- Strong compact lineup: Useful for smaller properties and mixed-use tasks.
- Dedicated Kubota expertise: Staff focuses specifically on the brand’s equipment and services, making technicians and advisors experts in the field.
- Good fit for acreage owners: Compact sizing works well for barns, trails and tight access areas.
- Financing and maintenance support: After-sales service continues.
3. James River Equipment — Best for North Carolina
James River Equipment has a strong presence across western North Carolina, with many of its agricultural customers already familiar with John Deere machinery. For buyers who run Deere tractors and implements daily, staying within the same framework can simplify maintenance and parts sourcing. The company’s protected service plan makes scheduling routine maintenance effortless, while trained technicians ensure used machines remain like new.
Key Features
- Large-agricultural-machinery focus: A good option for working farms and larger properties.
- John Deere parts and service network: Easier access to compatible support and maintenance.
- Used machines inventory: Frequent turnover of compact construction and farm equipment.
- Brand familiarity: Helpful for operators already comfortable with the brand’s systems.
Should You Buy From a Dealer or a Private Seller?
Private sellers sometimes lower prices, but the risk tends to increase. Many used skid steers have problems, especially hydraulic issues, that do not show up immediately during a quick inspection. However, due to the high demand for these machines across North America, you may need to consider all options.
A regional dealer often provides better service history for used machines, and it can help you source financing, parts and access to technicians. Partnering with a reputable dealer means they take on greater accountability after the sale, which brings you peace of mind. That support is vital when your purchase handles daily farm work and income-producing tasks.
Find the Right Machine for Your Property
The skid steer market has improved since the height of the supply chain crisis, but inventory challenges still affect buyers across the Appalachian region. Used equipment remains one of the most practical options for farmers, homesteaders and rural property owners who need a machine sooner rather than later.
Partnering with the right dealership matters as much as the machine you choose. Look for strong local support, reliable service and access to parts.
