Let’s first discard all kinds of decorative wheelbarrow trolleys intended to be part of landscape design, as well as children’s models for entertaining toddlers. We need a real au pair, a wheelbarrow that can withstand heavy loads and allow us to move solid loads.
Carts can be broadly classified into two main types:
- Construction. Much more massive, designed to move loads weighing up to 250 kg, including mortars, bricks;
- Garden. Their carrying capacity is usually up to 100 kg, intended for work on sites.
So the first criterion for choosing a trolley is the carrying capacity. If you are planning a construction site on the site and will move solid loads, choose a construction, heavier and more reliable one. If you just need a cart for household needs, take a garden.
The second important criterion for choosing a garden wheelbarrow is the number of wheels. There are three varieties:
- One-wheeled cars. Their main advantage is maneuverability. If your site has narrow and winding paths, a single wheel cart is a good choice. But it will not be easy to transport cargo on it on soft soil, the wheel will load in the ground. Keeping balance with such a loaded wheelbarrow is also more difficult;
- Two-wheeled. They are also quite maneuverable, they have a better distribution of the load on the soil, so it is more convenient to use them on beds where there is no dense road at all. However, the distance between the two wheels of the wheelbarrow must match the width of your tracks;
- Four-wheeled. The most reliable, but somewhat awkward in management. Most often, four-wheel trolleys are used to transport massive loads, they are able to move solid weights.
Tip – try rolling a cart with one, two or four wheels while still in the store. Think about which option will be the most convenient for you.
When choosing a garden wheelbarrow, consider not only the carrying capacity, but also the volume. On average, trolleys for household needs are designed for 60-80 liters, construction workers can move up to 140 liters of cargo.
The diameter of the wheels is also important. The larger it is, the more convenient it will be to drive the wheelbarrow, the shock absorption depends on the diameter. Optimally, if the wheels of the garden wheelbarrow are 35-45 cm in diameter.
Note also the handles of the garden wheelbarrow. There are two options – two parallel handles and one longitudinal. As with the number of wheels, we strongly advise you to try both options for a ride to see which one is more convenient to use. In any case, the handles should be long enough, grooved so that the hands do not slip..
As for the material of manufacture, metal wheelbarrows are, of course, more reliable and durable. But plastic is lighter, for ordinary work in the garden, garbage collection and moving, for example, harvesting cucumbers, are quite suitable. Wooden wheelbarrows today are more often presented as decorative elements of the landscape..
The strongest wheelbarrows have a cast frame made of solid tubes. In this case, any frame must fit snugly against the trolley body. In addition, for one- and two-wheel barrows, it is important to have strong supports to stand firmly on the ground during loading..
The longest are cars, the body of which is made of metal that is not afraid of corrosion, steel with a thickness of 0.8 mm, preferably up to 1.5 mm. The body shape can be square or trapezoidal, with a sloping front. In the second case, it will be more convenient to unload the cargo..
Now there are folding cars on sale, they are convenient to store, but they are considered not too reliable and are seriously inferior to carts with a metal body in terms of roominess and carrying capacity.
The price of a garden wheelbarrow can be very different. The simplest metal trolley on one wheel with a load capacity of up to 120 kg can be bought for 1,500 rubles. Two-wheeled vehicles with a carrying capacity of 150 kg will cost no less than 3000 rubles. Cars made of solid plastic are offered by manufacturers at prices ranging from 1,800 to 7,500 rubles, depending on the volume and availability of additional functions. But for a self-propelled wheelbarrow with a battery, you will have to pay about 30,000 rubles.
Of course, you can save money and make a wheelbarrow with your own hands, using, for example, wheels and a frame from an old stroller.
Can you please provide some tips or guidelines on how to select the right garden cart or wheelbarrow for everyday use at home? I’m quite unsure about the various options available and want to make sure I make an informed decision based on my household needs. Any advice or recommendations would be greatly appreciated!
When selecting a garden cart or wheelbarrow for everyday use at home, consider your specific needs and preferences. Firstly, determine the maximum weight capacity required for your typical loads. Ensure that the cart or wheelbarrow you choose can handle that weight without strain. Secondly, consider the terrain and size of your garden: if you have rough or uneven surfaces, opt for a cart or wheelbarrow with sturdy tires to provide stability. Evaluate the material of the cart or wheelbarrow; steel is more durable but heavier, while plastic is lighter but less robust. Additionally, consider the handle design – ergonomic handles with comfortable grips can make maneuvering easier. Compare different models, read customer reviews, and opt for quality brands with good warranties. Lastly, ensure that the cart or wheelbarrow is of an appropriate size for your storage space. By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision to select the right garden cart or wheelbarrow that perfectly suits your household needs.