The crawler track simply explained – advantages, areas of application, machines

Where normal wheels reach their limits, the area of ​​application for machines with crawler tracks begins.

Whether on muddy ground, uneven terrain or sensitive surfaces – tracks offer traction, stability and pressure distribution where conventional tires fail.

In this article you will learn what a crawler track is , which machines it is used on, when it is worthwhile – and where the limits lie.

What is a crawler track?

A crawler track replaces traditional tires with two endless tracks (caterpillars) that distribute the machine's weight over a significantly larger area. Depending on the application, these tracks are made of steel, rubber, or a combination of both – adapted to the soil conditions and load.

Power is transmitted via a drive wheel that sets the chain in motion. This ensures smooth propulsion – even on loose or muddy soils, steep slopes, or wet surfaces.

In short: Instead of point loading via individual tires, the crawler track relies on large-area support and even traction.

Which machines have crawler tracks?

You can find crawler tracks on many construction machines – especially where it is not about speed , but about stability and off-road capability .

Typical examples are:

• Mini excavators and crawler excavators
• tracked dumper
• Skid steer loader (with rubber track)
• Chain cranes and mini cranes
• Crawler work platforms (e.g. spider platforms, telescopic crawler platforms )
• Drilling rigs, crawler milling machines and special machines for civil engineering

Machines with crawler tracks are also the first choice in off-road and landscaping work or in forestry applications – because they create little ground pressure and can reach anywhere.

When is a crawler track advantageous?

Whenever the ground is challenging.

Conventional tires sink into soft ground, slip on inclines, or damage sensitive surfaces. Tracks, on the other hand, distribute the weight—keyword ground pressure —offer a large contact area , and increase traction—especially on:

• Mud, clay, wet grass or loose sand
• Slopes or inclines
• sensitive soils such as lawn sub-bases or paved areas
• heavy machines with high dead weight

Crawler tracks ensure secure stability, low ground pressure and smooth movement – ​​even in terrain that is no longer accessible to other equipment.

What is the difference to devices with tires?

The biggest difference is in ground contact and mobility :

Tired machines

are faster, more maneuverable on hard surfaces, and often cheaper to transport. However, they require stable, solid surfaces and are quickly overwhelmed on slopes or muddy terrain.

Crawler tracks

are slower and heavier – but significantly more robust in difficult conditions. They increase stability and allow safe work even under demanding conditions.

A machine with tires is for asphalt. One with tracks is for off-road use.

Limitations and disadvantages of crawler tracks

Despite their advantages, crawler tracks are not always the better choice.

They are:

• slower than tire vehicles
• harder to transport
• less efficient on hard surfaces (concrete, asphalt)
• more maintenance-intensive , especially with steel chains
• often more expensive to purchase or rent

In addition, they are rather impractical when there are long distances between locations – especially indoors or when locations are changed frequently.

Crawler work platforms – what you need to know

Not only excavators and cranes rely on crawlers. Many modern work platforms are also available in crawler versions.

Typical variants are:

• Telescopic crawler platforms – for great heights on uneven ground
• Spider platforms – particularly light, compact and all-terrain
• Hybrid models – with battery + track for flexible indoor/outdoor use

These devices are used when conventional platforms can no longer be positioned securely. Whether on construction sites, in parks, or on gravel, crawler work platforms take you places you otherwise couldn't reach.

Conclusion: When you should rely on caterpillars

A crawler track is the right choice when the ground is problematic, maximum stability is required – and you want to reach locations that are difficult to access safely.

For hard surfaces, indoor areas, and frequent changes of position, wheeled machines are often more practical. But when traction, safety, and terrain adaptation are paramount, there's no alternative to the tracked machine.

At BIBERGER, you not only get the right machine – but also advice for your exact application. Whether you need a work platform, mini crane, or specialized equipment: We'll tell you honestly whether crawler cranes are the right choice – and which is a better fit if not.