How many wheelbarrows are in a yard?

The answer to this question depends on the size of your wheelbarrow. Wheelbarrows commonly come in 2- and 3-cubic-foot models. To equal a cubic yard of dirt, mulch, or gravel, for example, you will need 14 wheelbarrows of a 2-cubic-foot model, and 9 wheelbarrows for one that is 3 cubic yards.

How do you store a wheelbarrow?

Wheelbarrows are handy pieces of equipment that take up a fair amount of space in a work shed or garage. Using space-saving wall brackets or storage racks allows you to tip your wheelbarrow upright and store it safely between uses. If you want to keep your wheelbarrow outside, you can also create a storage rack that attaches to a fence for upright storage that will help prevent rain, leaves, and other gunk from building up.

Why is it called a wheelbarrow?

The wheelbarrow as a human-powered device for transporting small loads can be traced back to ancient China. But the word wheelbarrow as we use it today originates in 14th century Britain. A compound word made up of “wheel” and “barrow” (believed to be a variation of Old English words for basket and/or carry ), modern English speakers often mistakenly refer to this common piece of construction equipment as a “wheelbarrel.”

The 9 Best Wheelbarrows of 2022

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A wheelbarrow helps you transport loads of mulch, rocks, and other bulky items, making gardening and yard work easier to manage. We researched dozens of options to find the best wheelbarrows, evaluating them on maneuverability, sturdiness, and capacity.

Our best overall pick is the True Temper Wheelbarrow with Steel Handles and Flat Free Tire, which stands out for its sturdy construction, affordability, and comfortable handles.

Here are the best wheelbarrows.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

True Temper 6 cu. ft. Wheelbarrow at Amazon

Read Review

Best Budget:

Best Choice Products Dual-Wheel Home Wheelbarrow Yard Garden Cart at Amazon

Read Review

Best Heavy-Duty:

Jackson 6 cu. ft. Steel Wheelbarrow with Flat-Free Tire at Amazon

Read Review

Best Two-Wheel:

WORX Aerocart Multifunction 2-Wheeled Yard Cart at Amazon

Read Review

Best for Gardening:

Allsop WheelEasy Foldable Garden Cart at Amazon

Read Review

Best Small:

Marathon Green Yard Rover at Amazon

Read Review

Best Decorative:

Andover Mills Barrville Wood Wheelbarrow Planter at Wayfair

Read Review

Best Motorized:

Makita XUC01X1 Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Power-Assisted Wheelbarrow at Amazon

Read Review

Best for Kids:

Radio Flyer Kid's Wheelbarrow at Amazon

Read Review

In This Article

Our Picks
What to Look for
Why Trust The Spruce

4.5

Courtesy of Home Depot

View On Amazon View On Home Depot

Material: Steel | Number of Wheels: 1 | Number of Handles: 2 | Capacity: 6 cubic feet | Dimensions: 58.75 x 25.5 x 27 inches

What we like

Affordable
Sturdy construction
Comfort-grip handles
Flat-free tire

What we don't like

Assembly required

Who else recommends it? BestReviews and Reviewed also picked the True Temper 6 cu. ft. Wheelbarrow.

What do buyers say? 100+ Home Depot reviewers rated it 4 stars or above.

The True Temper Wheelbarrow is a spacious, sturdy wheelbarrow that makes challenging yard work more manageable. It outshines the competition in durability and design, so we think it's an ideal option for large hauls and extensive use with minimal discomfort.

The tray has a capacity of 6 cubic feet, enough to transport all the gravel, dirt, leaves, twigs, and any other debris you need to haul. This compartment also has a curve in the design to make depositing and distributing materials much easier. Special grips on the handles increase comfort and make long-term usage less taxing.

Another considerable strength of the True Temper Wheelbarrow is its made-to-last construction. The steel tray is tough against temperature extremes and impact, and its dark gray exterior also hides dirt and age over time. If punctured, the 15.1-inch solid rubber tire won't flatten (and never needs refilling), and the rugged undercarriage can handle a lot of wear and tear over difficult terrain. While this model requires assembling, it will be well worth the time since this wheelbarrow will last for many seasons to come.

Best Choice Products Dual-Wheel Home Wheelbarrow Yard

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Material: Plastic, steel frame | Number of Wheels: 2 | Number of Handles: Single handle | Capacity: 5 cubic feet | Dimensions: 36 x 25 x 20 inches

What we like

Affordable
Easy to maneuver
Padded handlebar

What we don't like

Inflatable tires

Looking for a wallet-friendly model? Check out this dual-wheel option from Best Choice Products. Made of a durable plastic bin and steel frame, the wheelbarrow holds 5 cubic feet and up to 330 pounds of bricks, gravel, soil, mulch, and other landscaping materials.

While the tires are inflatable (as opposed to flat-free), they're notably sturdy and suitable for various terrains. The plush padded handlebar makes for comfy maneuvering, and it doubles as a stand for stationary use.

Jackson 6 cu. ft. Steel Wheelbarrow with Flat-Free Tire

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Material: Steel, wood handles | Number of Wheels: 1 | Number of Handles: 2 | Capacity: 6 cubic feet | Dimensions: 59.25 x 25.25 x 16.25 inches

What we like

Affordable
Flat-free tire
Heavy-duty construction
Tip-resistant design

What we don't like

Relatively heavy

If you want something that works as hard as you do, you can't go wrong with a Jackson wheelbarrow. Todd Farber, garden expert and owner of Garden Guy, recommends this heavy-duty steel option, which has a tip-resistant design, contractor-grade undercarriage, and a flat-free tire.

"It's heavy-duty steel and lasts multiple years. It is also well-balanced for the loads you put in it," Farber said. Weighing just over 55 pounds, this wheelbarrow is relatively heavy, but that's part of what makes it so sturdy.

WORX Aerocart Multifunction 2-Wheeled Yard Cart

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Material: Metal | Number of Wheels: 2 | Number of Handles: 2 | Capacity: 4.5 cubic feet | Dimensions: 22 x 12.50 x 58.50 Inches

What we like

Eight configurations
Flat-free tires
Easy to maneuver
Three-year warranty

What we don't like

Somewhat small capacity

If you're partial to two-wheel models, check out this sleek number by Worx. The Aerocart holds about 4.5 cubic feet of material, and while it has a 200-pound capacity, the "Turbo Lift" design makes it feel like only 17 pounds.

As for the wheels, you'll get two flat-free tires that won't puncture and never need to be inflated. Not only that, but this versatile wheelbarrow instantly converts into a dolly, garden cart, firewood carrier, and four other configurations.

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Material: Nylon | Number of Wheels: 1 | Number of Handles: 2 | Capacity: 3 cubic feet | Dimensions: 66 x 48 x 18 inches

What we like

Foldable design
Easy to maneuver
High weight capacity

What we don't like

No stand

If you love to garden, it's definitely worth considering the Allsop WheelEasy. This foldable garden cart-wheelbarrow combo holds a whopping 350 pounds of weight. Thanks to its vinyl-coated nylon carriage, powder-coated steel frame, and reliable rubber wheel, it's perfectly lightweight but also sturdy enough for heavy use. Plus, the collapsible design makes it easy to store and transport.

Marathon 5 cu ft. Green & Black Poly Wheelbarrow Yard Rover

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Material: Poly | Number of Wheels: 1 | Number of Handles: Single handle | Capacity: 5 cubic feet | Dimensions: 37 x 25.2 x 12.4 inches

What we like

Lightweight
Easy to maneuver
High weight capacity

What we don't like

Inflatable tires

Looking for something on the smaller side? Your best bet is the Yard Rover, which is made of durable, weather-resistant thermoplastic with a metal handlebar and two air-filled tires. Though it maxes out at 5 cubic feet and weighs roughly 25 percent less than others in its category, this wheelbarrow can carry an impressive 300 pounds of weight.

Andover Mills Barrville Wood Wheelbarrow Planter

View On Wayfair

Material: Wood | Number of Wheels: 1 | Number of Handles: 2 | Capacity: Not listed | Dimensions: 34 x 10 x 12 inches

What we like

Solid wood construction
Easy to maneuver
Weather-resistant finish

What we don't like

No drainage holes

Wheelbarrows are undoubtedly functional, but they can also enhance the look of your outdoor space. Take this wooden wheelbarrow planter by Andover Mills, for example, which is made of solid pine with a distressed finish that offers a repurposed, rustic vibe.

The box is roughly 17 inches long, 12 inches wide, and 10 inches deep with a weight capacity of about 15 pounds. A built-in wheel makes it easy to move around your yard, garden, or patio. And a weather-resistant finish helps it hold up outside year-round.

Makita XUC01X1 Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Power-A

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Material: Steel | Number of Wheels: 3 | Number of Handles: 2 | Capacity: Not listed | Dimensions: 45 x 24.5 x 33 inches

What we like

Water-resistant coating
Large capacity
Power-assisted maneuvering
Rechargeable battery

What we don't like

Expensive

If a motorized version is more your style, consider this pick by Makita. It runs on a rechargeable lithium-ion battery and offers up to 45 minutes of power-assisted maneuvering on a full charge.

The brushless motor delivers optimal performance and efficiency, allowing you to go up to 2.5 miles per hour on an incline. It also holds nearly 300 pounds of weight and has a water-resistant coating, so it'll withstand any unfavorable weather or gardening mishaps.

These Are the Best Lawn Mowers to Maintain Your Yard

Courtesy of Walmart

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Material: Steel, wood handles | Number of Wheels: 1 | Number of Handles: 2 | Capacity: Not listed | Dimensions: 31.1 x 16.26 x 11.34 inches

What we like

Classic red tray
Durable wheel
Solid wooden handles

What we don't like

May be too small for kids over 5

Is there anything cuter than a kiddo following their parent around the yard with a pint-sized wheelbarrow of their own? We don't think so, which is why we're big fans of this kid's model by Radio Flyer.

The brand has been a household name for over a century, best known for its classic red wagons and tricycles. This children's wheelbarrow is designed with the same trusted quality, featuring a shiny steel tray, a durable molded wheel, and solid wooden handles. Ideal for ages three and up, the tray has no-scratch edges that'll withstand any wear and tear and is perfect for gardening with kids.

The 11 Best Watering Tools for Greener Gardens

Final Verdict

Overall, we recommend the True Temper Steel Wheelbarrow (view at Amazon) because it has a sturdy construction, comfort grip handles, and a spacious tray that has a capacity of 6 cubic feet. For a budget-friendly option, consider the Best Choice Products Dual-Wheel Wheelbarrow (view at Amazon) because the affordable pick is easy to maneuver and has a padded handlebar for extra comfort.

Wheels

While you may be picturing a traditional wheelbarrow with a single wheel, some models have two or even four. One-wheel models are easier to turn, and four-wheel models provide the most solid platform for carrying heavy loads. Two-wheel models offer a compromise, as they’re a combination of maneuverable and stable. As for the wheels themselves, most are air-cushioned for smoother travel and some are flat-free, meaning you don’t need to worry about refilling them with air.

Handles

Dual handles allow you to better balance the weight of a load but can be cumbersome if you don’t have broad shoulders. A single handle (or push bar) solves this dilemma, though it can make unloading the contents of your wheelbarrow trickier. Some models make this easier by offering a dump mechanism.

Tub Material

Most modern wheelbarrows are made from either steel or heavy-duty plastic. Plastic wheelbarrows are often less expensive, but they may not be able to carry loads as heavy. Steel wheelbarrows, on the other hand, offer a higher weight capacity, but they can rust if left exposed to the elements.

According to Farber, the best wheelbarrows are made of steel and engineered to hold up through years of use.

FAQ

How many wheelbarrows are in a yard?

The answer to this question depends on the size of your wheelbarrow. Wheelbarrows commonly come in 2- and 3-cubic-foot models. To equal a cubic yard of dirt, mulch, or gravel, for example, you will need 14 wheelbarrows of a 2-cubic-foot model, and 9 wheelbarrows for one that is 3 cubic yards.
How do you store a wheelbarrow?

Wheelbarrows are handy pieces of equipment that take up a fair amount of space in a work shed or garage. Using space-saving wall brackets or storage racks allows you to tip your wheelbarrow upright and store it safely between uses. If you want to keep your wheelbarrow outside, you can also create a storage rack that attaches to a fence for upright storage that will help prevent rain, leaves, and other gunk from building up.
Why is it called a wheelbarrow?

The wheelbarrow as a human-powered device for transporting small loads can be traced back to ancient China. But the word wheelbarrow as we use it today originates in 14th century Britain. A compound word made up of “wheel” and “barrow” (believed to be a variation of Old English words for basket and/or carry), modern English speakers often mistakenly refer to this common piece of construction equipment as a “wheelbarrel.”

The Spruce contributor Theresa Holland has been covering home improvement, gardening, and outdoor living for several years. She has a True Temper wheelbarrow at home and recently got a Radio Flyer for her toddler. You can read more of her work on MyDomaine and Byrdie. To make this list, she considered the number of wheels and handles on each pick, as well as its tub material.