If you run a tree service business, having the right wood chipper isn’t just convenient—it’s essential. Clients expect fast, thorough cleanup after trimming, pruning, or full tree removal. That means you need a chipper that’s powerful, durable, and built to handle large volumes of wood day after day. In this guide, we’ll break down the best wood chippers for tree service companies in 2025 and help you choose the right one for your crew.
What Is the Best Wood Chipper for Tree Service?
The best wood chipper for tree service is the Bandit 250XP. It handles branches up to 12 inches in diameter, is trailer-mounted for easy transport, and is powered by a 120 HP engine. It’s reliable, efficient, and designed for high-volume, professional use. For smaller operations, the Vermeer BC1000XL or the WoodMaxx MX-9900 PTO chipper are excellent alternatives.
Top 5 Wood Chippers for Tree Service Businesses (2025)
Below is a comparison of the leading chippers used by arborists, landscapers, and professional tree removal teams.
| Model | Chipping Capacity | Engine Power | Type | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bandit 250XP | 12 inches | 120 HP Gas/Diesel | Commercial tow-behind | Large tree removal projects |
| Vermeer BC1000XL | 12 inches | 89 HP Diesel | Commercial tow-behind | Municipal & mid-size contractors |
| WoodMaxx MX-9900 | 9 inches | PTO-driven | Tractor-mounted | Tree farms & rural contractors |
| DR Power PRO XL575 | 5.75 inches | 14 HP Gas | Residential/light commercial | Small tree jobs & trimming |
| DK2 Power OPC506 | 6 inches | 14 HP Kohler | Gas tow-behind | Budget-conscious professionals |
1. Bandit 250XP: Best Overall Chipper for Tree Services
The Bandit 250XP is the gold standard for full-scale tree service work. With a powerful engine and a 12-inch capacity, it chews through limbs, trunks, and entire trees without slowing down.
- Massive 120 HP engine (gas or diesel)
- Fully hydraulic feed system with high-torque rollers
- Reinforced frame and high-wear components for all-day use
- Ideal for large crews and heavy-duty operations
If your business handles tree removal or storm damage cleanup regularly, this chipper will keep up with any job you throw at it.
2. Vermeer BC1000XL: Best Mid-Size Commercial Chipper
The Vermeer BC1000XL is a favorite among municipalities, landscaping businesses, and arborists who need high output in a compact frame. With a 12-inch capacity and an 89 HP diesel engine, it offers serious performance in urban or suburban settings.
- SmartFeed system to optimize infeed speed
- Clutchless belt drive minimizes downtime
- Durable, compact frame for city work
This is an excellent choice if your work includes residential neighborhoods, parks, and commercial landscapes.
3. WoodMaxx MX-9900: Best PTO Chipper for Tree Farms
If you own a tractor and prefer a PTO-driven solution, the WoodMaxx MX-9900 delivers outstanding results. It’s ideal for rural contractors, tree farms, and land-clearing specialists.
- Chips branches and trunks up to 9 inches thick
- Heavy-duty rotor with 4 blades for fast chipping
- Hydraulic feed system ensures consistent throughput
- Designed for Category 1 or 2 tractors with 35+ HP
It’s rugged, efficient, and cost-effective for operations that already rely on tractor power.
4. DR Power PRO XL575: Best for Light Commercial Use
The DR Power PRO XL575 is suited for arborists or landscapers handling smaller trees, light trimming, or occasional cleanups. It has a 5.75-inch capacity and is towable with most standard vehicles.
- 14 HP gas engine with a heavy-duty flywheel
- Towable and compact—easy to move and store
- Good for suburban and small-scale commercial jobs
This chipper offers a great balance of affordability and power for growing tree service companies.
5. DK2 Power OPC506: Best Value for Entry-Level Professionals
If you’re launching a new tree service business or need an affordable secondary machine, the DK2 OPC506 is a great pick. It chips up to 6-inch branches and is built for frequent use with a Kohler engine and steel construction.
- 14 HP Kohler engine offers reliable startup and power
- DOT-approved trailer design for on-road hauling
- Low maintenance and simple operation
Perfect for weekend warriors, budget-conscious pros, or backup equipment for larger companies.
How to Choose the Right Chipper for Your Tree Service Business
1. Chipping Capacity
Most professional tree jobs involve branches that are 5 to 12 inches thick. Choose a chipper that matches the average diameter of what you process most often.
2. Engine Power
Engines range from 14 HP for light commercial work up to 120 HP+ for heavy-duty machines. More horsepower means faster, smoother chipping—and less wear over time.
3. Feed System
Look for hydraulic or auto-feed rollers. These systems save your crew time and reduce fatigue during long jobs.
4. Portability
Tow-behind models are ideal for urban jobs. If you’re working in rural or off-road areas, a PTO chipper that connects to a tractor can be more efficient.
5. Maintenance Access
Make sure you can quickly access blades, belts, and filters. Time saved on maintenance is time gained on the job.
Why a High-Quality Chipper Matters in Tree Services
A good chipper isn’t just a machine—it’s an asset. Here’s how it benefits your business:
- Professional cleanup: Leave job sites spotless and impress clients
- Save on hauling: Chip on-site and reduce transport costs
- Mulch sales: Turn debris into profitable mulch for landscaping
- Boost efficiency: Get more jobs done faster with less downtime
Need to Finance Your Equipment?
Chippers can be expensive—but you don’t need to pay everything up front. Use the tractor loan calculator to check your eligibility for financing options on wood chippers, tractors, or trailers.
Click here to calculate your loan eligibility and get the right chipper for your business—fast, easy, and commitment-free.
Conclusion
The success of your tree service business depends on having tools that keep up with demand. The Bandit 250XP is the clear leader for full-scale jobs, while the Vermeer BC1000XL and WoodMaxx MX-9900 offer power in more specialized formats. For newer businesses, the DK2 OPC506 and DR Power PRO XL575 deliver great value without sacrificing performance.
Start your next season strong—check your equipment financing eligibility using the tractor loan calculator and upgrade your chipper today.