What are garden carts for? What’s the difference between a cart and a wheelbarrow? These are some things people often ask when they consider buying a cart or a wheelbarrow. Garden carts and wheelbarrows are handy for moving supplies, trash, and more. They’re especially great if you need to move landscaping rocks, fertilizer, or anything else heavy. This guide will help solve the garden cart vs. wheelbarrow debate with definitions, pros, cons, and more. Learn how to find the best garden cart or wheelbarrow for your needs.
What Are Wheelbarrows? What Are Garden Carts?
The biggest considerations in the wheelbarrow vs. cart decision are why you need something to transport items. A wheelbarrow cart and a garden or yard cart are two different things. While they perform similar functions, it’s important to recognize the differences.
A yard or garden cart is shallow with a large, flat bottom and straight sides. The wheels tend to be larger than a wheelbarrow’s wheels. Wheelbarrows may have only one or two wheels and sloped or curved trays. Some wheelbarrows have four wheels, but these are usually more expensive and are used on farms and ranches. Because of its design, a wheelbarrow offers greater maneuverability and versatility. However, maneuverability is harder with heavier or unbalanced loads. Garden carts tend to offer more stability.
Carts and wheelbarrows vary in their capacity. You may see it listed as cubic feet, and 6 cubic feet is a good choice for a wheelbarrow. If you pick one larger than that, it can be harder to control. Carts come in capacity sizes of a couple of cubic feet or more. Whether you choose a cart or a wheelbarrow, pick one that works for your needs to avoid overloading it.
Another common difference between the two is their handles. Carts often have one straight bar-like handle, and wheelbarrows have two separate handles.
Pros and Cons of Wheelbarrows
One of the main advantages of a garden wheelbarrow is its design that allows you to haul loose matter. Carts have a flatter design. A wheelbarrow tends to be deeper than a garden cart. Its design lends to greater maneuverability, which makes it easier to steer than a garden cart on non-smooth surfaces.
Since many have one wheel, transporting loads requires balancing them correctly. If not, the wheelbarrow may tip over. This may not be the case with two-wheel or four-wheel wheelbarrows. Some people choose two- and four-wheel versions for heavier or larger loads. Some wheelbarrows have tires with air. One disadvantage of wheelbarrows that have air in their tires is the risk of flat tires. However, some types do have solid tires, but those can make transport rougher.
Smaller wheelbarrows are easier to store than larger ones. If the product is metal, it’s important to store it properly to avoid rust. One common space-saving way to store it is to use a wall rack.
While there are several sizes of wheelbarrows, most people choose the 3- or 6-cubic-feet products. Many people wonder how many loads it takes to transport the material they plan to use. You may need to convert a load’s cubic yardage to a wheelbarrow’s cubic feet capacity. Transporting a cubic yard of material with a capacity of 3 cubic feet takes about nine wheelbarrow loads.
Pros and Cons of Garden Carts
There are several styles and types of garden carts. For example, you may find metal and plastic garden carts for sale. Although some metal products may have components that can rust, they may be more durable than one with thin plastic. A thicker polymer is more suitable for heavier use. However, any cart can get damaged if you overload it.
Many carts can handle heavier loads than wheelbarrows, and they’re designed to be stable. Also, carts carry the entire weight of the load. A wheelbarrow requires more effort from the operator. Some smaller carts can also fold up, which is great for easy storage and saving space.
Carts can be harder to move on uneven lawns, gravel, or other rough terrains. However, on smoother surfaces, the wheels roll easier than a wheelbarrow. This is especially true with heavier items. Larger carts that do not fold up may take up more storage space. They’re not as easy to hang on the wall as a wheelbarrow.
When it comes to load capacity, there are more options with carts. You can also find different styles, like front trucks that tip forward and sit flush on the ground for easy scooping. Popular capacity choices are between 6 and 12 cubic feet.
The Final Showdown: Wheelbarrow or Garden Cart?
You now have a better idea of which product to pick based on needs like bulkier items or loose matter. Your needs and your budget may determine which option is better for you. For instance, polymer or plastic materials tend to cost less than high-quality metals. However, if you need something durable for heavy loads, be sure to pick a suitable material.
Capacity choices also depend on the loads you are carrying. Perhaps you need something for regular lawn care needs and don’t need a high-capacity cart. On the other hand, you may have a project like landscaping or creating window boxes and may need something that can handle heavier loads. Aside from capacity and material, read reviews to determine quality. Choose a product from a reputable manufacturer. If any products you’re considering come with warranties, compare those as well.
Pay attention to the handles of a cart or wheelbarrow. For wheelbarrows, ergonomic handles may be helpful. Look at the wheels to make sure the cart or wheelbarrow is sturdy. If you pick a wheelbarrow, decide whether you want solid or pneumatic tires. Be sure to have the supplies you need to care for pneumatic tires if you choose them.
Frequently Asked Questions
These are some questions that people frequently ask about yard carts and wheelbarrows.
How do you pick a wheelbarrow?
Pick one that has a capacity high enough to handle your intended use. Make sure you understand the difference between non-pneumatic and pneumatic tires to pick the right type. Also, pick one with comfortable and sturdy steering handles.
What’s the best wheelbarrow to get?
The best one will have the right material and capacity for your needs. In addition to having suitable tires and handles, it should have good reviews.
Are one or two wheels better for a wheelbarrow?
It’s better to have two wheels for heavier loads. However, one-wheel models are easier to steer and may be more suitable on rough terrain.
Is a poly or steel wheelbarrow better?
For heavier loads, steel is better with its durability. Poly or plastic products are fine as long as you stay within the load capacity limits.
What’s the difference between a wheelbarrow and a cart?
Wheelbarrows can have one, two, or four wheels, and carts always have four wheels. They may also have different wheel materials. Additionally, a wheelbarrow’s body design is deeper and more curved. The handle styles are also different.
What’s better than a wheelbarrow?
A cart may be better if you’re moving heavier or bulkier items across a smooth surface. It doesn’t require as much physical effort.
What are garden carts for?
Garden carts are for hauling landscaping or gardening supplies. They may also be used to haul other items.
How do I choose a garden cart?
Pick one with a design that fits your needs for the things you need to haul. Also, pick one with the right material and capacity.
You’re now a pro in understanding yard cart vs. wheelbarrow factors. Be sure to buy all the landscaping supplies and lawn tools you need for your cart or wheelbarrow. To find everything you need, visit your nearest True Value store.