When it comes to leasing a snowcat, the delivery day is one of the most exciting – and important – moments in the entire process. It marks the beginning of your operation’s next phase, whether that’s grooming snowy trails, supporting a ski event, or accessing remote terrain. But to make the most of it, a little preparation goes a long way.
At Ski Cat Company, we pride ourselves on making snowcat delivery as smooth and stress-free as possible. While we handle the logistics and equipment setup, there are a few things you can do on your end to ensure everything runs like clockwork.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly what to expect, how to get your site ready, and who should be there on delivery day – so your team hits the ground running.
What to Expect on Snowcat Delivery Day
At Ski Cat Company, we don’t just drop off a machine and head out – we treat delivery day as the official start of your lease and a critical part of setting you up for success. Here’s what typically happens when your snowcat arrives:
Arrival Notification & Timing
You’ll receive a confirmation the day before delivery with an estimated time of arrival. Depending on weather and terrain, our team may adjust the delivery window slightly, but we stay in close communication to ensure you’re ready.
Equipment Arrival & Offloading
Your snowcat will arrive on a heavy-duty trailer or flatbed truck. The delivery crew will safely offload it in a pre-designated area, which should be level, accessible, and free of snow buildup or obstacles.
Before offloading, the team will assess the site for safety. If adjustments are needed (due to snowpack, slope, or space constraints), we’ll work with you to find a safe alternative.
Walkthrough and Equipment Orientation
Once the machine is on the ground, we’ll walk you through:
- Controls and operation basics
- Startup and shutdown procedures
- Maintenance checkpoints
- Safety tips and best practices
- SnowSat compatibility features (if applicable)
This is also your chance to ask questions, take photos or videos, and get familiar with your snowcat before putting it to work.
Initial Inspection and Handoff
Together, we’ll complete a quick inspection of the Snowcat’s condition, note fuel levels, and go over any accessories or attachments included in your lease. After sign-off, you’re good to go!
How to Prepare Your Site
A smooth snowcat delivery starts with a site that’s ready. While Ski Cat Company handles the heavy lifting, there are a few key things you can do ahead of time to make sure everything goes off without a hitch.
Clear Access Routes
Make sure access roads and driveways are wide enough for a large trailer and are plowed, stable, and free of obstacles. Watch for overhanging branches, soft ground, and low-hanging wires that could interfere with delivery.
Set Up an Offloading Zone
Designate a safe, level space for the snowcat to be offloaded. This area should be clear of ice buildup, deep snow, or uneven terrain. If possible, have someone on site to guide the delivery driver to the exact location.
Prepare a Staging or Storage Area
If the snowcat won’t be used immediately, plan where it will be parked. Choose a spot that’s easy to access and safe from weather extremes, snow drift, or unwanted foot traffic. If your site has limited space, consider temporary signage or barriers to protect the machine.
Notify the Right People
Let your team know when the machine is arriving so they can be ready. This includes anyone involved in operations, logistics, or site safety. Having boots on the ground makes everything faster and smoother – and reduces risk.
Who Should Be There on Delivery Day
Having the right people on-site during delivery isn’t just helpful – it’s essential. A quick walkthrough with our team can save hours (or days) of confusion down the line. Here’s who should be present when your snowcat arrives:
Operations Manager or Site Supervisor
This person will oversee the delivery, sign off on equipment condition, and serve as the primary point of contact. They’ll help coordinate logistics and make final decisions on staging or placement if adjustments are needed.
Snowcat Operators
Anyone who will be operating the snowcat should be present for the walkthrough. This is their chance to ask questions, get familiar with the machine, and understand any model-specific quirks or controls. Even experienced operators benefit from a quick orientation.
Maintenance or Technical Staff (If Applicable)
If you have someone responsible for basic maintenance or oversight during the lease, it’s ideal for them to attend. We’ll point out the key inspection areas, safety checks, and what to do if a service issue arises.
Pro Tips for a Smooth Snowcat Delivery
Over the years, we’ve helped deliver snowcats to every kind of site – from remote trailheads to busy ski resorts.
Here are a few extra tips to make your delivery day even easier:
Dress for the Weather
It might seem obvious, but snowcat delivery happens in all conditions. Bundle up, wear boots, and be ready to walk the site with our team – especially if snow or ice is present.
Record the Walkthrough
Use your phone to film the equipment orientation. It’s a great resource if your operator forgets a step or if someone new joins mid-season.
Have Documentation on Hand
Keep copies of your lease agreement, insurance info, and emergency contacts easily accessible in case there are any questions or updates needed during delivery.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions
Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned operator, we’re here to help. Ask about storage, startup tips, or anything else you’re unsure about. There’s no such thing as a bad question.
Kick of the Season Right
Snowcat delivery day is the start of your season – and with a little preparation, it can be quick, easy, and even fun. When your site is ready and your team is prepped, everything runs smoother from the first hour on.
Need help getting ready? Want to talk through logistics? Give us a call at 888-4-SKICAT or visitour contact page. We’re happy to walk you through the process, step by step.
