While the digging scoop and the loader bucket are by far the most common tools used on backhoe loaders, there's been a trend in recent years towards using additional attachments to increase the machines' flexibility. For example, switching from a bucket to forks lets you easily transport pallets without the expense and hassle of bringing forklifts to the job site.

If you want to be able to use multiple attachments, look for a backhoe that includes a quick coupler, or integrated tool carrier (ITC). These are industry-standard connections for various types of construction equipment, and include hookups to the loader's hydraulic system for powered attachments.

There are many different types of attachments that can be used on a backhoe loader. The front of a backhoe loader can be outfitted with forks, grapples (hooks or claws), snow blowers, and powered brooms. The back can use hammers, thumbs (or crushers), and grinders. Either end can be fitted with multi-purpose buckets of varying widths for lifting, carrying, and dumping different types of materials. "4-in-1 buckets," which have a hinged bottom that can be opened and closed hydraulically, are also a popular choice.

Don't feel compelled to purchase all the attachments you might need immediately. Start with the essentials; you can always add more as the need develops. You can even rent attachments that you'll only use occasionally. In some cases, tool carrier-equipped backhoes can even use skid steer attachments.

Additional features
Backhoes have two stabilizer legs located right behind the rear wheels. These legs support most of the weight when digging, reducing stress on the wheels and providing a steady digging platform. The stabilizer on the backhoe loader you choose should have both grouser shoes that provide a firm grip on dirt, and rubber-padded shoes for use on asphalt.

Many contractors prefer four-wheel drive backhoes, which are best for traction on muddy or loose ground. Since many backhoe loaders spend most of their working lives on muddy, loose ground, the extra cost of four-wheel drive can be a good investment. Four-wheel drive is harder on the transmission, so try to use it only when necessary.

On crowded job sites, four-wheel steering offers greatly improved maneuverability: turning the front and rear wheels in opposite directions greatly reduces turning radius. In the tightest spots, "crab steering" lets you turn the front and rear wheels in the same direction, allowing the loader to scoot sideways. Four-wheel steering is a fairly uncommon feature but rapidly gaining popularity. A 4 x 4 x 4 backhoe has four-wheel drive, four-wheel steering, and four equal-sized wheels.

Older backhoe loaders use mechanical hand and foot levers to control their various functions. Newer backhoes feature much easier-to-use "pilot controls:" dual joysticks that provide full control with less stress on the operator.

Cabs are becoming more like automobile interiors as manufacturers start paying more attention to ergonomics: they're larger, provide better sight lines, and can include extras like suspension seats, climate control, and 12-volt outlets for cell phones or other accessories. These aren't just frills — keeping the operator comfortable increases productivity.

Operator cabs also need to be designed with safety in mind: OSHA requires all backhoe loaders to have ROPS (roll over protective structures). The regulations detail exactly how much protection the ROPS should provide in a rollover. Fully enclosed cabs are called EROPS (enclosed roll over protective structures).

When digging long trenches or working next to obstacles, sideshift can be a huge time saver. Sideshift allows the operator to slide the digging arm all the way to one side of the vehicle and operate it in that position. From there, the machine can dig a trench parallel to the direction the tires are facing. This makes it much easier to dig along a foundation or wall with less risk of damage. It also eliminates the need for constant repositioning of the backhoe — it can simply inch forward as necessary.

Many new backhoes offer automatic transmissions. These are particularly worthwhile if you'll be doing a lot of driving around large work sites or to and from jobs. However, they are more expensive, so if you'll be transporting the loader mainly with a trailer, you may want to go for a less expensive manual transmission.