Forwarder or harvester - what's the difference and which machine to choose?
Forwarder or harvester - what's the difference and which machine to choose?
There is hardly a more distinctive machine in the forestry industry than the forwarder and harvester. Both vehicles form the basis of modern mechanised timber harvesting, but their functions and purpose are quite different.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the main differences between the two, introduce example manufacturers and show where to buy or sell this type of machine.
Modern forestry machinery at work - forwarder/harvester.
Forwarder PONSSE BUFFALO 8W
PONSSE ERGO 6W Harvester
What is a harvester?
A Harvester is a specialised forestry machine used for felling, limbing and thinning trees. In practice, this means that it does most of the work at the logging site. The harvester operator controls the harvesting head, which fells the tree, removes branches and cuts them to the appropriate lengths - all in one smooth cycle.
In this way, the harvester significantly increases productivity and safety, reducing the need for power saws. Modern models are equipped with advanced computer systems that allow the length and diameter of the cut to be programmed and automatically count the amount of harvested material.
Some of the most popular harvester manufacturers include Ponsse, John Deere, Komatsu Forest or Eco Log - brands known for their high reliability and ergonomics.
Check out the current Harvester auctions and bid on a machine at an attractive price:
John Deere Harvester while felling wood in the forest.
What is a forwarder?
The forwarder, unlike the harvester, is not used for felling trees, but for transporting already cut timber from the harvest site to the loading or storage point.
It is equipped with a loading area and a hydraulic crane with grapple, so it can load and unload timber on its own.
Forwarders are built for rough terrain - their all-wheel drive, low unit pressure and flexible suspension allow them to navigate muddy, uneven forest surfaces.
The best-known forwarder manufacturers are also Ponsse and John Deere, but also Rottne or Komatsu, which offer models with a range of payloads - from compact 8-tonne machines to powerful units with a lifting capacity of more than 20 tonnes.
Check out the current Forwarder auctions and bid on a machine at an attractive price:
A John Deere forwarder transporting timber from the harvest site.
Forwarder versus harvester - key differences
| Feature | Harvester | Forwarder |
| Main function | Felling and processing of trees | Transport of timber |
| Equipment | Shear head | Crane with grapple and loading area |
| Effect of the work | Timber cut and limbed | Timber transported to landfill |
| Crew | 1 operator | 1 operator |
| Type of work | Precision and stationary | Transport and mobility |
In practice, the two machines work as a duo - the harvester performs the felling, while the forwarder collects and transports the material. This combination significantly improves work and allows high efficiency to be achieved even on difficult terrain.
Where to buy or sell a forwarder or harvester?
If you are looking for a forestry machine or want to sell your equipment - TechBid.co.uk is the place for you.
On our portal you can easily:
- put a forwarder or harvester up for sale,
- buy second-hand equipment from reliable sellers,
- order the transport of the machine,
- ask about additional financing for the purchase of machinery.
Thanks to the auction nature of the portal, you have full control over the price and the whole process is fast, secure and transparent. It is you as the seller who sets the minimum price. In addition, you will receive full support from an auction supervisor.
Check out the current offers in the Forestry Machinery category on TechBid.co.uk and find a vehicle to suit your needs.
Summary
Forwarder and harvester are two indispensable machines in modern forestry - the first is responsible for transporting timber, the second for harvesting and preparing it. Together, they form an indispensable duo that significantly increases productivity.
If you are planning to buy or sell such equipment, TechBid.co.uk is the best place to do it quickly and efficiently.
TECHBID.PL
Looking for a PONSSE harvester/forwarder or other forestry machine at an attractive price?
Check out the latest auctions on TechBid.co.uk - a portal where machines end up in good hands and every auction is a chance for a unique opportunity!
Check out the current offers for PONSSE machines.
– Buy profitably - Take part in auctions and get proven forestry and construction machinery often much cheaper than on the market.
– Sell without stress - our auctioneers will take care of the entire process: from listing and promotion to finalising the transaction.
– Safe conditions, full support - we assist with the formalities, financing and transport of the machines after the auction.
Don't wait - check out the ongoing auctions.
You are welcome to contact us:
e-mail: aukcje@techbid.pl or biuro@techbid.pl
Telephone: 730 320 403
Forestry machinery available on TechBid.co.uk - find the equipment to suit your needs.
