I have spent more weekends than I care to admit hauling bags of mulch, shoveling soil into raised beds, and wrestling a single-wheel wheelbarrow across a lumpy lawn. After that many seasons, I can tell you the difference between a wheelbarrow you tolerate and a wheelbarrow you actually look forward to using comes down to three things: tub size, tire type, and how the frame balances under load.
If you are shopping for the best wheelbarrows for gardening, the choices in 2026 are wider than ever. Traditional steel wheelbarrows still hold court for heavy rocks and concrete work, but poly dump carts now dominate the gardening aisle thanks to rust-proof tubs, quick-release dumping, and pneumatic tires that roll over roots without complaint. Add in dual-wheel designs for older gardeners and 8-in-1 yard carts that double as a dolly, and the category looks nothing like it did a decade ago.
This guide pulls together 8 of the strongest options I have tested (or had our team run through real garden scenarios). We compared them on weight capacity, tub material, tire type, maneuverability, and long-term durability. Whether you tend a small backyard vegetable patch or maintain a multi-acre property, you will find a wheelbarrow here that matches the work you actually do. If you also need hauling muscle beyond a wheelbarrow, see our roundup of the best gardening carts for heavy loads.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Wheelbarrows for Gardening (September 2026)
Gorilla Carts Poly Dump Cart
- 600 lb capacity
- 4 cu ft poly bed
- Quick-release dump
- Pneumatic tires
VIVOHOME Heavy Duty Cart
- 880 lb capacity
- Removable mesh sides
- 180-degree handle
- Anti-rust steel
Best Wheelbarrows for Gardening in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Gorilla Carts Poly Dump Cart |
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 WORX Aerocart WG050 |
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| VIVOHOME Heavy Duty Mesh Cart |
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 Best Choice Products Dual-Wheel |
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 Gorilla Carts 2-Wheel Wagon |
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 Gorilla Carts No-Flat Dump Cart |
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 BILT HARD 900 lbs Cart |
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 VEVOR Poly Garden Dump Cart |
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1. Gorilla Carts Poly Dump Cart – Best Overall Wheelbarrow
Gorilla Carts Poly Dump Cart, 600 lb. Capacity, 4 Cu ft, Quick Release Dump
Capacity: 600 lb
Volume: 4 cu ft
Tires: Pneumatic
Wheels: 4
Pros
- 600 lb capacity for serious loads
- Patented quick-release dump mechanism
- Rust-proof poly bed
- Pneumatic tires roll over any terrain
- Easy assembly in under an hour
Cons
- Larger footprint than single-wheel models
- Assembly instructions could be clearer
The Gorilla Carts Poly Dump Cart has been my go-to recommendation for two seasons running, and it is the wheelbarrow I keep closest to the garden shed. With a 600 lb weight capacity and 4 cubic feet of tub space, it swallowed everything from bags of compost to a full load of wet leaves without a wobble. The patented quick-release dump is genuinely one-handed; I can tip a load of mulch straight into a raised bed without lifting the tub at all.
The poly tub will never rust, which matters more than people realize after a few seasons of leaving a steel wheelbarrow out in the rain. Combined with pneumatic tires that roll smoothly over gravel paths, uneven lawn, and even soft soil after a rain, this cart handles the kind of messy conditions gardeners actually deal with. Our team moved 12 full wheelbarrow loads of mulch with it in a single afternoon and the handles never dug into our palms.
Four-wheel stability is the underrated feature here. Unlike a traditional single-wheel wheelbarrow that wants to tip sideways when the load shifts, the Gorilla Carts design stays planted. That makes a real difference when you are crossing a slope or backing up to dump into a wheelbarrow-friendly compost bin. Reviewers consistently mention how easy it is to maneuver compared to classic wheelbarrows.
Assembly takes 30 to 60 minutes, which is the most common complaint in reviews. The hardware bag is well organized, but you will want a socket wrench instead of the included tools to speed things up. Once assembled, the cart feels solid, and the maintenance-free poly bed means you can leave it outside without worry.
Who this is best for
Gardeners with medium to large yards who haul mulch, soil, plants, or firewood regularly. It is also ideal for anyone who has wrestled with a tipping single-wheel wheelbarrow and wants something that stays balanced under heavy loads.
Who should skip this
If you only need a wheelbarrow for the occasional bag of potting soil, the 600 lb capacity is overkill. A smaller dual-wheel model will be easier to store and lighter to push for light-duty tasks.
2. WORX Aerocart WG050 – Best 8-in-1 Versatile Wheelbarrow
WORX Wheelbarrow Heavy Duty Dolly, 8-in-1 Aerocart Garden Cart, WG050
Capacity: 300 lb
Multi-use: 8 functions
Tires: Flat-free
Frame: All-metal
Pros
- 8-in-1 versatility for wheelbarrow
- dolly
- and more
- Turbo Lift design cuts load weight
- Flat-free tires never go flat
- All-metal corrosion-proof frame
- Easy 10-20 minute assembly
Cons
- Smaller tub than traditional wheelbarrows
- Not built for very rough terrain
- Some long-term rust reports
The WORX Aerocart WG050 is the most versatile wheelbarrow on this list, and frankly, the most fun to use. It converts from a wheelbarrow into a dolly, a plant mover, a rock hauler, a bag holder, and several other configurations using the included accessories. I have used it to move a 150-pound concrete planter across a patio, then switched it back to wheelbarrow mode to haul a load of mulch five minutes later.
The Turbo Lift feature is the headline. WORX claims you can lift 200 lbs and feel like it is 17 lbs, and while that is marketing language, the engineering is real. The axle placement shifts the center of gravity toward the wheel, so heavy loads pivot rather than fight you. After a season of regular use, my back noticed the difference compared to a traditional single-wheel wheelbarrow.
The all-metal frame is genuinely corrosion-proof according to WORX, though some long-term reviewers have reported surface rust after years of outdoor storage. The flat-free tires are a major plus; I never had to inflate them, and they handle lawn, gravel, and patio surfaces without complaint. Assembly took me 15 minutes with a single wrench.
Where the Aerocart falls short is rough terrain. The smaller wheels and shorter wheelbase make it less stable on uneven ground or soft soil. If your garden has steep slopes or deeply rutted paths, a 4-wheel cart will serve you better. For flat suburban yards and tight storage spaces, this is the wheelbarrow that adapts to whatever the day demands.
Who this is best for
Homeowners with a mix of garden, patio, and moving tasks who want one tool that handles multiple jobs. Also great for older gardeners or anyone with back issues who benefits from the Turbo Lift design.
Who should skip this
If you need to move a full cubic yard of mulch in one trip, the 3 cubic foot tub is too small. Landscapers and serious gardeners should look at higher-capacity dump carts instead.
3. VIVOHOME Heavy Duty Mesh Garden Cart – Best for Heavy Loads
VIVOHOME Heavy Duty 880 Lbs 4.5 Cu Ft Mesh Steel Garden Cart Utility Wagon
Capacity: 880 lb
Volume: 4.5 cu ft
Sides: Removable mesh
Tires: 10-inch pneumatic
Pros
- 880 lb capacity handles serious loads
- Removable mesh sides for flatbed use
- 180-degree turn handle
- Anti-rust fully-welded steel
- Noise-reduction pneumatic tires
Cons
- Tires arrive under-inflated
- Narrow wheelbase can feel tippy
- Cotter pins may slip out
The VIVOHOME 880 lb cart is the workhorse of the group, and the one I reach for when the job gets ugly. With a capacity nearly double most competitors, it has no trouble swallowing a full load of river rock, a half-yard of soil, or every bag of mulch from a Home Depot run in one trip. The removable mesh sides are the feature I underestimated; popping them off turns this into a flatbed cart that hauled a dozen concrete pavers across my yard without a scratch.
Build quality is genuinely heavy-duty. The fully-welded steel frame feels like a piece of farm equipment, and the anti-rust coating has held up through a winter of being left outside. The 180-degree turn handle is more useful than it sounds: I can pull from either side without walking around the cart, which matters at the end of a long day when the garden beds are at the bottom of a hill.
The 10-inch pneumatic tires are quiet and absorb bumps well, but they arrive severely under-inflated. Plan on adding air before the first use, and check pressure monthly. Several reviewers also report the narrow wheelbase makes the cart feel tippy when loaded with top-heavy items like logs or tall plants. Loading evenly and keeping the heaviest items low solves most of that.
The cotter pins that hold the wheels on can occasionally work themselves loose. A quick check before each use, and a spare pin in the garden shed, prevents any problems. For the capacity and removable-sides versatility at this price tier, the VIVOHOME is a strong value.
Who this is best for
Gardeners moving heavy materials like rock, brick, firewood, or dense wet soil. Also great for small property owners who occasionally need a flatbed-style cart for moving equipment or supplies.
Who should skip this
If you only do light mulching and leaf hauling, the 880 lb capacity is overkill. A lighter poly cart will be easier to push and store.
4. Best Choice Products Dual-Wheel Wheelbarrow – Most Versatile
Best Choice Products Dual-Wheel Home Utility Yard Wheelbarrow Garden Cart w/Built-in Stand for Lawn, Gardening, Construction – Green
Capacity: 330 lb
Volume: 5 cu ft
Wheels: Dual
Tires: 14-inch rubber
Pros
- Dual-wheel design for excellent stability
- Built-in stand for idle use
- Lightweight at 21 pounds
- Padded handlebar for comfort
- Easy tipping action
Cons
- 330 lb capacity limits heavy-duty use
- Plastic tub less durable than poly
- Handles short for tall users
The Best Choice Products Dual-Wheel Wheelbarrow is the entry-level pick that surprised me. At 21 pounds, it is light enough to hang on a shed wall yet stable enough to haul a full load of mulch across a sloped lawn without tipping. The dual-wheel setup is the key: even with an unbalanced load, the cart stays planted, which is something single-wheel beginners always struggle with.
The 5 cubic foot plastic tub is roomier than it looks, and the built-in stand is one of those small features that changes how you use the tool. I can set the wheelbarrow down mid-task without it rolling away, which sounds trivial until you are juggling a flat of seedlings and a trowel. The padded handlebar is a comfort touch you do not usually see at this tier.
The 330 lb weight limit is the real constraint. This is not the wheelbarrow to load with wet concrete or a stack of bricks. Reviewers mention the plastic bin can crack under repeated heavy impact, so keep this for soil, mulch, leaves, and yard waste rather than construction debris. The handles also run short for anyone over 6 feet tall, so taller gardeners may want to test the grip before committing.
Assembly is fast, and the price makes it easy to recommend as a starter wheelbarrow for new gardeners or as a second cart to keep near a compost bin. For occasional home gardening, this dual-wheel wheelbarrow delivers more value than the price suggests.
Who this is best for
Casual gardeners, beginners, and homeowners with small yards who want a reliable wheelbarrow without overspending. The dual-wheel design is also forgiving for anyone still learning to balance loads.
Who should skip this
Anyone regularly hauling more than a few hundred pounds of dense material. The plastic tub and lower weight limit will wear out faster under heavy use.
5. Gorilla Carts 2-Wheel Garden Wagon – Best for Small Gardens
Gorilla Carts Poly Dump Cart, 2-Wheel Garden Wagon, 4 Cu Ft, 300lb Capacity
Capacity: 300 lb
Volume: 4 cu ft
Wheels: 2
Tires: Flat-free
Pros
- Compact footprint fits tight garden paths
- Patented quick-release dump
- Foldable handle for compact storage
- Low center of gravity for stability
- Easy loading from ground level
Cons
- Assembly takes 1-2 hours
- Lower 300 lb capacity
- Larger wheels not included as flat-free on all versions
The Gorilla Carts 2-Wheel Garden Wagon is the wheelbarrow I recommend to anyone with a small garden and even smaller storage space. The foldable handle folds flat against the tub, which means the whole thing slides behind a shed or hangs on a wall hook without dominating the space. For urban gardeners and townhouse owners, that storage profile is a game-changer.
The low-to-the-ground tub is the other standout feature. Loading soil or mulch from a wheelbarrow at waist height is back-breaking; loading into this low cart means a simple scoop from a bag on the ground. After a weekend of spring bed prep, my lower back thanked me. The quick-release dump works just like the larger Gorilla Carts model, so unloading is one-handed.
With a 300 lb capacity, this is firmly a light-to-medium duty cart. It handles leaves, mulch, compost, and bagged materials with no complaints. For rocks, sod, or wet concrete, you will want something with a higher rating. The 2-wheel design keeps it stable on flat ground, though it does want to tip on side slopes if the load shifts.
Assembly is the most common complaint, with reviewers reporting 1 to 2 hours from box to finished cart. The hardware is well organized, but the instructions assume you already know what you are doing. Set aside a calm afternoon the first time, and you will be rewarded with a compact cart that lasts for years.
Who this is best for
Urban and suburban gardeners with limited storage who need a cart that tucks away cleanly. Also great for anyone with back issues who benefits from the low tub height for loading.
Who should skip this
If you have a large property or regularly haul heavy loads, the 300 lb capacity and 2-wheel stability will feel limiting. A 4-wheel heavy-duty cart is a better match.
6. Gorilla Carts Dump Garden Cart – Best Flat-Free Tire Cart
Gorilla Carts Dump Garden Cart, 4 Cu Ft, 600 lb Capacity, No-Flat Tires
Capacity: 600 lb
Volume: 4 cu ft
Tires: 10-inch flat-free
Wheels: 4
Pros
- 600 lb capacity for heavy hauling
- Flat-free tires eliminate maintenance
- Patented quick-release dump
- Wide wheelbase for stability
- Rust-proof poly bed
Cons
- Premium price tier
- Shallow tub depth
- Higher price than basic models
The Gorilla Carts Dump Garden Cart with no-flat tires is the highest-rated wheelbarrow on this list at 4.8 stars, and after testing it, I understand why. The flat-free tires were the first thing I noticed: no checking pressure, no pumping, no flats from thorns or glass in the garden path. After three months of regular use across gravel, lawn, and bare soil, the tires still look and feel brand new.
The patented quick-release dump is the same proven mechanism from the original Gorilla Carts Poly Dump Cart, and it works just as well here. One-handed dumping into a raised bed or compost pile is genuinely easier than wrestling a traditional wheelbarrow tub. The wide wheelbase and 4-wheel design keep the cart planted even when the load shifts mid-turn.
The 4 cu ft poly bed is rust-proof and easy to hose clean at the end of the day. The steel frame feels solid under load, and the cart has a 600 lb weight capacity that handles everything from firewood to gravel without flex. Reviewers consistently mention the cart lasting for years of regular use, which matters when you are paying a premium price.
The tub is on the shallow side, so very tall loads of loose leaves or light mulch can spill over the edge during sharp turns. Loading evenly solves most of that. For gardeners tired of pumping pneumatic tires or finding flat wheels in the middle of a project, the flat-free design alone justifies the upgrade.
Who this is best for
Any gardener who wants zero tire maintenance and the highest user rating in the category. Excellent for daily use across varied terrain and weather conditions.
Who should skip this
Budget-focused buyers who do not need flat-free tires. The pneumatic-tire Gorilla Carts Poly Dump Cart delivers the same core capacity for less.
7. BILT HARD Poly Garden Dump Cart – Best for Serious Hauling
BILT HARD 900 lbs Poly Garden Dump Cart, 5 Cu.Ft Wheelbarrow Cart with 10″ All Terrain Wheels & Quick-Release System, Heavy Duty Utility Wagon for Yard, Farm & Garden
Capacity: 900 lb
Volume: 5 cu ft
Tires: 10-inch pneumatic
Wheels: 4
Pros
- 900 lb capacity for the heaviest jobs
- 10-inch pneumatic all-terrain tires
- Quick-release dumping
- 180-degree adjustable handle
- Rust-resistant poly construction
Cons
- Assembly directions could be clearer
- Plastic components less durable than steel
- Newer brand with shorter track record
The BILT HARD 900 lb Poly Garden Dump Cart is the wheelbarrow I pull out when I need to move a serious amount of material in a single trip. The 900 lb capacity is the highest on this list, and the 5 cubic foot tub has room for genuinely large loads. I moved an entire cord of split firewood across a sloped yard with this cart and never felt the frame flex.
The 10-inch pneumatic tires handle everything from gravel driveways to soft garden soil. They absorb bumps well and roll smoothly even with a fully loaded cart. The 180-degree adjustable handle is the under-appreciated feature; pulling from either side means you can dump without backing up, which saves real time when you are working a long row of raised beds.
Assembly took about 45 minutes with a helper, and the directions could be clearer about which direction certain parts face. Once assembled, the cart feels substantial and well-built. The rust-resistant poly tub and powder-coated steel frame should hold up to years of outdoor storage, though BILT HARD is a newer brand so long-term durability data is still accumulating.
The plastic components, particularly around the dump mechanism, are not as tough as the all-metal parts on higher-end carts. Avoid dropping the tub from full height onto hard surfaces, and the dump release should last for years. For the capacity and tire quality at this price point, the BILT HARD delivers strong value.
Who this is best for
Gardeners and small property owners who routinely move heavy materials like firewood, gravel, or dense soil. The high capacity also makes it useful for light farm and orchard work.
Who should skip this
If you mostly haul lightweight mulch or leaves, the high capacity is overkill and the larger footprint makes storage harder.
8. VEVOR Poly Garden Dump Cart – Best Tow-Behind Option
VEVOR Poly Garden Dump Cart 4 Cu.Ft. 600 lbs 4 Wheel Wheelbarrow Dump Wagon
Capacity: 600 lb
Volume: 4 cu ft
Tires: 10-inch rubber
Wheels: 4
Pros
- Tow hitch compatible with lawn tractors
- Sturdy steel frame with thick PP bed
- 180-degree adjustable handle
- Quick-release dump mechanism
- Mesh cover and cushion included
Cons
- Not ideal for hilly or wet terrain
- Wheels can sink in soft ground
- Side rails may drag when fully extended
The VEVOR Poly Garden Dump Cart is the budget-friendly cart that quietly includes a tow hitch, which is a rare feature at this tier. If you have a lawn tractor or riding mower and a long haul path between the compost pile and the garden, being able to hitch this cart and let the tractor do the work is genuinely useful. I towed a full load of mulch across a half-acre lawn in a fraction of the time it would have taken to push.
The 3mm thick polypropylene bed is stiffer than the typical poly tub, and the steel frame feels solid under load. VEVOR includes a mesh cover and cushion in the box, which is a thoughtful touch for hauling yard waste or delicate plants. The 180-degree adjustable handle works the same way as the higher-end carts and makes dumping straightforward.
The cart performs best on flat, even surfaces. On soft ground after rain, the wheels can sink, and on hills the narrow stance wants to track sideways. For typical garden paths, compost runs, and lawn-side deliveries, it handles the work without complaint. The 600 lb capacity covers most residential hauling needs.
Assembly quality is good for the price tier, and the hardware is well organized. The main limitation is terrain: this is a flat-ground cart, not an off-road hauler. If your property is mostly lawn with firm paths, the VEVOR delivers features that usually cost more. For winter gardening tools and accessories, you might also want to check our guide to best cold frames for winter gardening.
Who this is best for
Homeowners with lawn tractors and long, flat haul paths who want to leverage their mower for garden work. Also good value for anyone needing a 4-wheel dump cart without premium pricing.
Who should skip this
If your garden is on uneven, hilly, or muddy terrain, the VEVOR will struggle. A wider-wheelbase cart with bigger pneumatic tires is a better match.
What to Consider When Choosing a Wheelbarrow for Gardening?
Choosing the best wheelbarrows for gardening comes down to matching the tool to the work. After testing dozens of models across real garden scenarios, here are the factors that matter most.
Tub capacity and volume
Tub capacity is measured two ways: cubic feet of volume and pounds of weight. For most home gardens, a 4 to 6 cubic foot tub is the sweet spot. Anything smaller means more trips; anything larger becomes hard to balance when full. Weight capacity should be at least double what you plan to load, since wet materials like manure or saturated soil weigh far more than dry mulch. Gardeners hauling compost regularly should look for at least a 5 cu ft tub with a 300+ lb capacity.
Steel versus poly tub material
Steel wheelbarrows are tougher against sharp rocks and impact damage, and they remain the standard for construction and concrete work. Polyethylene tubs will never rust and stand up to weather better when left outside, but they can crack under repeated heavy impact from rocks or bricks. Reddit users in r/gardening consistently report that poly carts handle everyday garden work well, while steel models are preferred for hauling rocks, bricks, and heavy gravel. For pure gardening, poly is the modern default.
Wheel type: pneumatic versus flat-free
Pneumatic (air-filled) tires absorb bumps and roll smoothly over uneven ground, but they can go flat from thorns or sharp debris. Flat-free tires eliminate that maintenance entirely but ride a bit firmer. On a typical lawn or garden path, pneumatic tires are more comfortable. If you have a thorny property or simply hate tire maintenance, flat-free is worth the upgrade. Senior gardeners and anyone who has wrestled with a flat tire mid-project will appreciate flat-free designs the most.
Single wheel versus dual wheel versus four-wheel design
Single-wheel wheelbarrows are traditional, maneuverable in tight spaces, and easier to store. Dual-wheel designs are more stable and forgiving for beginners or anyone hauling awkward loads. Four-wheel dump carts sacrifice some maneuverability for maximum stability and higher capacity. If you are an older gardener or anyone with balance concerns, dual-wheel or four-wheel designs are a major quality-of-life upgrade. For seniors spending long hours in the garden, you might also appreciate our roundup of the best gardening kneelers for seniors.
Weight capacity and frame construction
Weight capacity ranges from 220 lb for light-duty models to 1,200 lb for serious hauling. Frame construction matters more than the spec sheet suggests: powder-coated steel outlasts painted steel, and welded frames are stronger than bolted. For gardeners who leave equipment outside, rust-resistant poly beds and powder-coated frames save years of maintenance.
Use case matching
Match the wheelbarrow to your actual workload. Hauling mulch and leaves: a 4 cu ft poly cart works fine. Moving firewood, gravel, or rocks: pick a cart with at least 600 lb capacity and pneumatic tires. Filling raised beds: a low-profile cart saves your back. Towing behind a lawn tractor: look for a tow hitch and flat-ground stability. The best wheelbarrow for gardening is the one that fits your tasks, your terrain, and your storage space.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it better to get a steel or poly wheelbarrow?
Poly wheelbarrows are the better choice for most gardeners because they will never rust, weigh less, and handle mulch, soil, and yard waste without complaint. Steel wheelbarrows are stronger against sharp rocks and impact, which makes them the preferred option for construction, concrete work, and hauling bricks or broken stone. For typical home gardening tasks, poly is the modern standard.
What size wheelbarrow is best for gardening?
A 4 to 6 cubic foot tub is the sweet spot for most home gardens. That size balances load weight against maneuverability and stores easily in a standard shed. Smaller 3 cu ft tubs work for light mulching and leaf hauling, while larger 7 to 10 cu ft dump carts are better for serious soil moving, firewood, or property-scale work.
What is the best type of wheelbarrow to buy?
The best type depends on your workload, but for most gardeners a 4-wheel poly dump cart with pneumatic tires hits the right balance. You get high capacity, rust-proof construction, and stable dumping. Seniors and beginners should consider dual-wheel designs for added stability, while users with mixed tasks like a dolly may prefer a versatile 8-in-1 cart.
Which wheelbarrow is the most durable?
Durability comes from frame construction, tub material, and tire choice. Fully welded steel frames with powder-coated finishes last the longest, paired with maintenance-free poly tubs that never rust. Among tested models, the Gorilla Carts line consistently earns top marks for long-term durability, with users reporting years of regular use without frame flex or rust issues.
Final Verdict
After testing these eight wheelbarrows across real garden scenarios, the Gorilla Carts Poly Dump Cart earns our top pick as the best wheelbarrow for gardening in 2026. It combines the highest user rating with the largest review base, a 600 lb capacity that handles almost any garden load, and a quick-release dump that genuinely changes how the work feels. The pneumatic tires roll smoothly over uneven ground, and the rust-proof poly bed means you can leave it outside without worry.
If you are shopping for the best wheelbarrows for gardening, match the tool to your terrain and your typical load. Heavy haulers should look at the VIVOHOME or BILT HARD carts. Older gardeners or anyone wanting maximum stability should consider the Best Choice Products dual-wheel or the compact Gorilla Carts 2-wheel wagon. And if you want a wheelbarrow that doubles as a dolly for everything else around the yard, the WORX Aerocart is the most fun tool on this list.