Garden wheelbarrow: how to choose and which one is best to buy?

Garden wheelbarrows (carts) are indispensable tools for construction, renovation, and gardening. The main advantage of single-wheeled machines is mobility. However, since one wheel sinks into the ground, transporting heavy objects can become impossible. Maintaining balance on such a cart is also difficult. A two-wheeled model distributes the load better and is more suitable for garden beds and transporting heavy loads.

Wheel diameter is also important—the larger it is, the more comfortable the work and the softer the shock absorption. There are other criteria to consider when choosing a garden cart, which are discussed further in the article.

Rating table

The table below shows the TOP 13 models of garden carts:

Place	Model	Average cost	The main feature of the model	Rating
1	Wheelbarrow Sibrtech 689633	3500 rub.	Simplified control	9.6
2	Wheelbarrow ZUBR 39903	4500 rub.	Smooth movement and easy control	9.5
3	Wheelbarrow Variant 11204-1	1300 rubles	Can be ridden on uneven surfaces without difficulty	9.4
4	Wheelbarrow AL-KO 62 G	3800 rub.	Sustainability	10.0
5	Belamos 457P one-wheeled wheelbarrow	1800 rubles	High-quality galvanized body	9.4
6	Gigant WBG170 wheelbarrow	5000 rub.	Narrow and deep body	10.0
7	Wheelbarrow Palisad 689183 200 kg	3200 rubles	The presence of bearings ensures smooth running	9.0
8	Wheelbarrow Sibrtech 68961 90 kg	2600 rubles	Lightweight model	7.8
9	Wheelbarrow Belamos 509P 200 kg	3000 rubles	Comfortable rubberized handles	7.8
10	Wheelbarrow Bison 39901 200 kg	3000 rubles	Reinforced steel frame	9.4
11	Wheelbarrow TECH-TOP, 110 l, 606628	6000 rub.	Robust body with rolled sides	10.0
12	Belamos T509R (T505R) single-wheeled wheelbarrow	3200 rubles	Deep steel body	7.8
13	Belamos T700R (T500R) two-wheeled garden cart	3500 rub.	The frame design allows you to unload the wheelbarrow without much effort.	7.6

How to choose a garden wheelbarrow: selection criteria

The first step is to determine the purpose for which you need a wheelbarrow. This will help you choose the right type of cart. The following are possible types:

GardenIt's used for transporting seedlings, soil, sand fill, fertilizer, small debris collected from the garden, etc. It's lighter in construction, has a lower load capacity, and is less expensive, but isn't suitable for very heavy loads (volume is also important; its maximum capacity is 90-110 liters). It's typically used for handling seedlings, bulbs, and fertilizer. It's also useful for hauling potatoes, carrots, beets, and other vegetables from garden beds. Thanks to its lighter materials and frame, this option can be easily used by both men and women.
ConstructionIt's essential for transporting heavy items for building various structures, fences, paths, gazebos, and more. It can also be adapted for transporting heavy items in the garden, such as topsoil, sand, or gravel. The cart has increased load capacity, improved maneuverability, and is lighter and more economical. This cart can carry loads up to 115-130 liters.

Once you've decided on the type of cart, carefully study the carts' specifications and, if possible, "handle" one. This will narrow your choices, and you won't be overwhelmed by the sheer number of models and the information you hear from the salesperson at the store.

Although at first glance all the cars are similar in design, there are still differences, sometimes significant ones.

Wheels

The number of wheels can vary, from one to four. The heavier the intended load, the more wheels the unit should have. The clear advantage of a single-wheeled vehicle is its mobility. Such a device can easily navigate even the narrowest and most uneven paths. The disadvantage is that since only one wheel provides support, the load's weight will be felt more heavily. The wheels sink into soft ground, making movement more difficult.

If you plan to drive on the ground rather than concrete, it's better to choose a cart with two or more wheels. They're more stable and can easily move over any type of terrain, and the weight of the load being transported isn't as noticeable (compared to single-wheel carts). However, multi-wheel carts lack maneuverability; models with two or more widely spaced wheels can't maneuver and turn around in all situations. Therefore, be sure to consider:

the width of the paths in your garden;
the number and steepness of turns that the cart will need to make.

Wheel diameter also requires attention. The larger the better, as wear is directly related to wheel size. The best option is between 35 and 40 cm.

Pneumatic wheels (wheels that require pressure to be inflated) on metal rims are especially popular these days. They roll easily on any surface. The axle is equipped with either bearings or bushings. The former are easier to ride on, but are susceptible to dirt.

Body

The material for a wheelbarrow also needs to be chosen very carefully; metal is often the preferred choice. However, this type of garden tool often suffers from aggressive environments and rust, which gradually destroys the tool. The onset of unwanted corrosion can be delayed by choosing a garden wheelbarrow made of durable metal—steel 0.8-0.9 mm thick.

For protection, metal is galvanized or painted. Galvanizing creates zinc oxide on the surface, which prevents rust. Paint is applied electrically, and then the product is baked at 1800°C. This ensures a durable coating.

It's impossible to say for sure which coating is better. It depends directly on how and under what conditions you'll be driving your car. There's just one caveat: while galvanized metal is more attractive, it's not very resistant to harsh external factors. This will require some care and extra maintenance.

The body of a garden cart can also be made of plastic or wood. Their strength and lifespan will be slightly inferior to metal ones, and they will require more careful maintenance. Learn more about the features:

TreeWooden wheelbarrows are losing their practicality and are increasingly becoming decorative items in the garden: they can be used to hold flower pots, create a container garden, plant flowers in the wheelbarrow itself, etc. In the absence of other options, such hand carts are also used for transporting goods.
PlasticA wheelbarrow like this can't handle large quantities of soil, fertilizer, rocks, or sand. However, it's great for handling vegetables, fallen leaves, light debris, and small amounts of soil or compost. Such wheelbarrows should be kept away from fire and other heat sources, and avoid leaving them in direct sunlight, extreme cold, or heavy rain for extended periods.
Willow twigsThis is the most exotic material. It is quite durable. The structure is based on a metal frame and woven with wicker rods. This "basket on wheels" can be used to transport leaves, branches, flower pots, seedlings, and so on. And, of course, it can be used to decorate the garden. The wicker wheelbarrow weighs up to 8 kg and can support up to 40 kg. It is not only beautiful and aesthetically pleasing, but also durable with proper care and is environmentally friendly.

Frame

The body of the garden cart is connected to the wheels by a metal frame, which also serves as its support, extending into the bracket and handle. The frame is typically 30-40 mm in diameter. In compact models (up to 70 liters), the frame is one-piece: from the wheels, it extends into the post, and then into the handle.

For 80- to 100-liter capacity trucks, the frame is reinforced. It consists of two parts: the first is the main body, which extends from the handle below the groove and curves toward the wheel, forming a front unloading stop. The second part is the auxiliary frame, which supports the underbody and may have a smaller diameter than the main frame. To prevent corrosion, the frame is painted or galvanized.

An additional structural element of the frame is reinforcement—a stiffening rib. This increases the strength of the sides and bottom of the truck bed. However, it will interfere with handling liquids and bulk materials; for these, a wheelbarrow with a round bed is recommended.

Handles

They should be a good length and have a corrugated plastic surface (anti-slip). You should try it yourself to see what's most comfortable for you. There are two types of handles:

one longitudinal;
two parallel.

If the wheelbarrow has only one wheel, you'll need to hold it almost upright. This means two handles will be more comfortable and reduce unnecessary strain. The handle should be slightly bent to avoid wrist injury.

With a multi-wheel cart, you don't need to hold it; simply push it forward. The choice of handle type is entirely up to your personal preference.

If the multi-wheel version is equipped with two handles, the operator's body must be completely and freely positioned between them.

Other parameters:

DimensionsWheelbarrow dimensions vary widely. To ensure the correct wheelbarrow size, measure all the walkways, doorways, gates, and paths along which the hand truck will be pushed. Select a wheelbarrow based on these dimensions.
WeightIt depends on the dimensions of the cart, the metal used for its body, and the weight of the frame and wheels. The best choice for a metal cart is 10 kg. An important point: the heavier the cart, the more difficult it is to control.
CapacityThis parameter is indicated in liters. The most common carts have a capacity of 65 to 130 liters. Larger or smaller carts are less common.
Load capacityThis is a measurement in kilograms indicating the load a trolley can handle without breaking. Most commonly, the load capacity ranges from 80 to 130 kg. A hand truck with a higher capacity is also heavier. For handling larger loads, it's better to choose a reinforced model (with thicker walls and a heavy frame) rather than overloading a small trolley.

Video help for choosing a garden wheelbarrow:

Detailed description of products from the rating

Description and characteristics of the products presented in the rating.

1Wheelbarrow Sibrtech 689633

Price: 3500 rub.

A construction trolley for transporting all kinds of items during gardening and agricultural work - dry grass, leaves, accumulated debris, or something heavier - for example, bags of fertilizer.

Main characteristics:

manufacturer – Sibirtech;

the brand's homeland is Russia;

weight – 11.6 kg;

load capacity - 170 kg;

volume - 90 l;

body material – metal;

galvanized body – yes;

body thickness – 0.7 mm;

frame material – metal;

frame coating – enamel powder;

number of wheels – 1;

type of wheel – pneumatic wheel;

wheel diameter - 36 cm;

presence of bearing – yes;

handles - 2 parallel.

Pros and cons

durable metal frame;

ease of movement;

large body.

short lifespan of factory bearings.

Final assessment

User ratings

9.6/10

Total

9.6

Reviews often note the ease of use and the neatness of the wheelbarrow's welding.

2Wheelbarrow ZUBR 39903

Price: 4500 rub.

This construction wheelbarrow is equipped with steel bearings and is used for transporting various types of cargo during construction and gardening projects.

Main characteristics:

manufacturer – ZUBR;

the brand's homeland is Russia;

weight – 13.1 kg;

load capacity - 220 kg;

volume - 110 l;

body material – metal;

galvanized body – yes;

body steel thickness – 0.9 mm;

frame material – metal;

frame coating – enamel powder;

number of wheels – 1;

type of wheels – polyurethane;

wheel diameter - 38 cm;

presence of bearing – yes;

handles - 2 parallel.

Pros and cons

durability;

robust construction;

high load capacity;

high mobility.

assembly is difficult, help will be needed.

Final assessment

User ratings

9.5/10

Total

9.5

Reviews often note excellent balance.

3Wheelbarrow Variant 11204-1

Price: 1300 rub.

A garden wheelbarrow designed for transporting various oversized loads—vegetables, leaves, grass, garden waste, etc.

Main characteristics:

manufacturer – Variant;

the brand's homeland is Russia;

weight – 9.8 kg;

load capacity - 120 kg;

volume - 85 l;

body material – metal;

galvanized body – yes;

body thickness – 0.6 mm;

frame material – metal;

frame coating – enamel powder;

number of wheels – 1;

type of wheel – pneumatic wheel;

wheel diameter - 38 cm;

presence of bearing – yes;

handles - 2 parallel.

Pros and cons

capacity;

quick and easy assembly;

relatively light weight.

The body metal is quite thin, you can’t carry heavy objects in it.

Final assessment

User ratings

9.4/10

Total

9.4

Reviews often note the compactness of the model (when disassembled, the car fits even in the smallest trunk).

4Wheelbarrow AL-KO 62 G

Price: 3800 rub.

A construction wheelbarrow can be used at a summer cottage to transport soil, fertilizers, sand, gravel, and much more, including construction waste.

Main characteristics:

manufacturer – AL-KO;

the brand's homeland is Germany;

weight – 9 kg;

load capacity - 150 kg;

volume - 60 l;

body material – metal;

galvanized body – yes;

body thickness – 0.75 mm;

frame material – metal;

frame coating – enamel powder;

number of wheels – 1;

type of wheel – pneumatic wheel;

wheel diameter - 35 cm;

presence of bearing – yes;

handles - 2 parallel.

Pros and cons

reinforced frame;

lightness and maneuverability;

large wide wheel.

There is a problem with the bolts (they are not always available in the required quantity, check in the store).

Final assessment

User ratings

10/10

Total

Reviews often note the good, durable metal body.

5Belamos 457P one-wheeled wheelbarrow

Price: 1800 rub.

A garden cart designed for transporting various types of waste, fertilizers, soil and fallen leaves.

Main characteristics:

manufacturer – Belamos;

the brand's homeland is Russia;

weight – 7.4 kg;

load capacity - 80 kg;

volume - 85 l;

body material – metal;

galvanized body – yes;

body thickness – 0.6 mm;

frame material – metal;

frame coating – enamel powder;

number of wheels – 1;

type of wheel – pneumatic wheel;

wheel diameter - 38 cm;

presence of bearing – yes;

handles - 2 parallel.

Pros and cons

ease of assembly and operation;

light weight and maneuverability;

very stable thanks to two supports.

thin body metal.

Final assessment

User ratings

9.4/10

Total

9.4

Reviews often note the durability and lightness.

6Gigant WBG170 wheelbarrow

Price: 5000 rub.

A garden wheelbarrow designed for transporting waste, fertilizers, soil, and fallen leaves in the garden.

Main characteristics:

manufacturer – Gigant;

the brand's homeland is Russia;

weight – 13.6 kg;

load capacity - 170 kg;

volume - 78 l;

body material – metal;

galvanized body – yes;

body steel thickness – 0.7 mm;

frame material – metal;

frame coating – paint;

number of wheels – 2;

type of wheel – pneumatic wheel;

wheel diameter - 36 cm;

bearing presence – yes

handles - 2 parallel.

Pros and cons

long service life;

a robust frame ensures reliability when moving loads;

anti-slip pads on the handles;

Excellent stability thanks to two pneumatic wheels.

assembly difficulties;

problems with bolt assembly

Final assessment

User ratings

10/10

Total

Reviews often note its reliability and spaciousness.

7Wheelbarrow Palisad 689183 200 kg

Price: 3200 rub.

A garden and construction wheelbarrow, additionally reinforced with a stiffening rib. Suitable for transporting building materials and other goods needed at the dacha, such as removing trash, leaves, picking vegetables, etc.

Main characteristics:

manufacturer – Palisad;

the brand's homeland is Germany;

weight – 13 kg;

load capacity - 200 kg;

volume - 90 l;

body material – metal;

galvanized body – yes;

body steel thickness – 0.8 mm;

frame material – metal;

frame coating – enamel powder;

number of wheels – 1;

type of wheel – pneumatic wheel;

wheel diameter - 38 cm;

presence of bearing – yes;

handles - 2 parallel.

Pros and cons

high load capacity;

high level of strength;

reliability and durability in operation.

small and not very comfortable handles.

Final assessment

User ratings

9/10

Total

Reviews often note the reliability of the design and the presence of reinforcement (stiffeners).

8Wheelbarrow Sibrtech 68961 90 kg

Price: 2600 rub.

A garden wheelbarrow designed for quickly and easily moving bulky items. Ideal for gardening, such as hauling fallen leaves, branches, garden waste, and more.

Main characteristics:

manufacturer – Sibirtech;

the brand's homeland is Russia;

weight – 7.1 kg;

load capacity - 90 kg;

volume - 65 l;

body material – metal;

galvanized body – yes;

body steel thickness – 0.6 mm;

frame material – metal;

frame coating – enamel powder;

number of wheels – 1;

type of wheel – pneumatic wheel;

wheel diameter - 36 cm;

presence of bearing – yes;

handles – 2 parallel.

Pros and cons

compactness and light weight;

high quality materials;

ergonomic design;

high level of cross-country ability.

small thickness of the body walls.

Final assessment

User ratings

7.8/10

Total

7.8

Reviews often note that the wheelbarrow is perfect for bulky, but not very heavy, loads.

9Wheelbarrow Belamos 509P 200 kg

Price: 3000 rub.

A garden wheelbarrow designed for transporting not only grass, trash, etc., but also heavier loads, including construction materials such as sand, mortar, rocks, and more. Its specially shaped frame allows it to withstand heavy loads.

Main characteristics:

manufacturer – Belamos;

the brand's homeland is Russia;

weight – 16 kg;

load capacity - 200 kg;

volume - 90 l;

body material – metal;

galvanized body – yes;

body steel thickness – 0.8 mm;

frame material – metal;

frame coating – paint;

number of wheels – 1;

type of wheel – pneumatic wheel;

wheel diameter - 40 cm;

presence of bearing – yes;

handles – 2 parallel.

Pros and cons

maneuverability;

good stability;

quality of construction;

easy assembly.

problems with the assembly, everything needs to be checked carefully.

Final assessment

User ratings

7.8/10

Total

7.8

Reviews often note the durable frame and body.

10Wheelbarrow Bison 39901 200 kg

Price: 3000 rub.

A garden wheelbarrow designed for transporting goods during construction, renovation, or gardening work – removing various types of debris, leaves, branches, and transporting building materials.

Main characteristics:

manufacturer – Zubr;

the brand's homeland is Russia;

weight – 14.8 kg;

load capacity - 180 kg;

volume - 90 l;

body material – metal;

galvanized body – yes;

body steel thickness – 0.9 mm;

frame material – metal;

frame coating – enamel powder;

number of wheels – 1;

type of wheel – pneumatic wheel;

wheel diameter - 35 cm;

presence of bearing – yes;

handles – 2 parallel.

Pros and cons

made of high quality materials;

thick-walled body;

durability.

discomfort when moving on uneven surfaces.

Final assessment

User ratings

9.4/10

Total

9.4

Reviews often note the reliability of the design.

11Wheelbarrow TEX-TOP, 110 l, 606628

Price: 6000 rub.

A garden and construction wheelbarrow designed for transporting various items during household work.

Main characteristics:

manufacturer – TEX-TOP;

the brand's homeland is Russia;

weight – 14.7 kg;

load capacity - 260 kg;

volume - 110 l;

body material – metal;

galvanized body – yes;

body steel thickness – 0.8 mm;

frame material – metal;

frame coating – enamel powder;

number of wheels – 2;

type of wheel – pneumatic wheel;

wheel diameter - 36 cm;

presence of bearing – yes;

handle - one longitudinal.

Pros and cons

increased strength;

durability;

capacity;

ease of operation.

Sometimes you have to finish the joints yourself (for example, with a file).

Final assessment

User ratings

10/10

Total

Reviews often note the stability and strong frame.

12Belamos T509R (T505R) single-wheeled wheelbarrow

Price: 3200 rub.

A garden and construction wheelbarrow designed for transporting heavy loads such as sand, mortar, rocks, various debris, etc.

Main characteristics:

manufacturer – Belamos;

the brand's homeland is Russia;

weight – 16 kg;

load capacity - 200 kg;

volume - 110 l;

body material – metal;

galvanized body – yes;

body steel thickness – 0.8 mm;

frame material – metal;

frame coating – enamel powder;

number of wheels – 1;

type of wheel – pneumatic wheel;

wheel diameter - 40 cm;

presence of bearing – yes;

handles – 2 parallel.

Pros and cons

maximum width – 70 cm;

powerful reinforced frame;

easy assembly;

big wheel.

short lifespan of factory bearings.

Final assessment

User ratings

7.8/10

Total

7.8

Reviews often note the ease of movement on uneven surfaces.

13Belamos T700R (T500R) two-wheeled trolley

Price: 3500 rub.

A garden wheelbarrow designed for transporting heavy loads on construction sites and in the garden.

Main characteristics:

manufacturer – Belamos;

the brand's homeland is Russia;

weight – 17.7 kg;

load capacity - 200 kg;

volume - 110 l;

body material – metal;

galvanized body – yes;

body steel thickness – 0.6 mm;

frame material – metal;

frame coating – enamel powder;

number of wheels – 2;

type of wheels – pneumatic;

wheel diameter - 38 cm;

bearing presence – yes

handles – 2 parallel.

Pros and cons

reliable design;

strength;

ease of assembly;

stability.

thin iron from which the body is made.

Final assessment

User ratings

7.6/10

Comparison table of products from the rating

Name	Load capacity, kg	Permissible volume, l	Body thickness, mm	Number of wheels, pcs.	Weight, kg	Price, rubles
Wheelbarrow Sibrtech 689633	170	90	0.7	1	11.6	3500
Wheelbarrow ZUBR 39903	220	110	0.9	1	13.1	4500
Wheelbarrow Variant 11204-1	120	85	0.6	1	9.8	1300
Wheelbarrow AL-KO 62 G	150	60	0.75	1	9	3800
Belamos 457P one-wheeled wheelbarrow	80	85	0.6	1	7.4	1800
Gigant WBG170 wheelbarrow	170	78	0.7	2	13.6	5000
Wheelbarrow Palisad 689183 200 kg	200	90	0.8	1	13	3200
Wheelbarrow Sibrtech 68961 90 kg	90	65	0.6	1	7.1	2600
Wheelbarrow Belamos 509P 200 kg	200	90	0.8	1	16	3000
Wheelbarrow Bison 39901 200 kg	180	90	0.9	1	14.8	3000
Wheelbarrow TEX-TOP, 110 l, 606628	260	110	0.8	2	14.7	6000
Belamos T509R (T505R) single-wheeled wheelbarrow	200	110	0.8	1	16	3200
Belamos T700R (T500R) two-wheeled garden cart	200	110	0.6	2	17.7	3500

Wheelbarrow ZUBR 39903

Wheelbarrow Sibrtech 689633

Gigant WBG170 wheelbarrow

Wheelbarrow Variant 11204-1

-1

Wheelbarrow AL-KO 62 G

-1

Belamos 457P one-wheeled wheelbarrow

-1

Wheelbarrow Palisad 689183 200 kg

-1

Wheelbarrow Sibrtech 68961 90 kg

-1

Wheelbarrow Belamos 509P 200 kg

-1

Wheelbarrow Bison 39901 200 kg

-1

Wheelbarrow TEX-TOP, 110 l, 606628

-1

Belamos T509R (T505R) single-wheeled wheelbarrow

-1

Belamos T700R (T500R) two-wheeled trolley

-1

When choosing a garden wheelbarrow, consider its intended purpose. Be sure to measure the width of all openings and paths where the cart will need to pass, and pay attention to important specifications such as load capacity, volume, and the thickness of the metal used to make the body. The heavier the load, the higher the latter figure should be. With proper consideration, your garden wheelbarrow will serve you faithfully for many years.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which type of wheel is better for working on loose soil: pneumatic or solid?

Can a garden wheelbarrow be used to transport liquid materials (such as water)?

What is the minimum wheel diameter allowed for working on uneven surfaces?

How to extend the life of a wheelbarrow body when transporting bulk materials with abrasives (sand, crushed stone)?

Which handle design is more comfortable, straight or curved?

How to properly distribute the load in the truck bed to prevent the truck from tipping over?

Is it possible to upgrade an old car to improve its performance?

What is the maximum weight difference between an empty and loaded wheelbarrow that is acceptable for safe transportation?

How to protect a car from corrosion if it is stored outside?

What additional accessories can improve ease of use?

Which type of wheel bearings are preferable: ball or plain?

Is it possible to transport long materials (boards, pipes) using a wheelbarrow?

How to choose a car for a person with back problems?

What is the optimal tire pressure for working on different surfaces?

How to prevent a one-wheeled wheelbarrow from tipping over when loading?

Garden wheelbarrow ratings: which one to choose?

Rating table

How to choose a garden wheelbarrow: selection criteria

Wheels

Body

Frame

Handles

Detailed description of products from the rating

1Wheelbarrow Sibrtech 689633

2Wheelbarrow ZUBR 39903

3Wheelbarrow Variant 11204-1

4Wheelbarrow AL-KO 62 G

5Belamos 457P one-wheeled wheelbarrow

6Gigant WBG170 wheelbarrow

7Wheelbarrow Palisad 689183 200 kg

8Wheelbarrow Sibrtech 68961 90 kg

9Wheelbarrow Belamos 509P 200 kg

10Wheelbarrow Bison 39901 200 kg

11Wheelbarrow TEX-TOP, 110 l, 606628

12Belamos T509R (T505R) single-wheeled wheelbarrow

13Belamos T700R (T500R) two-wheeled trolley

Comparison table of products from the rating

Frequently Asked Questions