A wheelbarrow is an important tool when moving materials from one area to another.
However, selecting the right wheelbarrow for the demand can significantly impact how well it works. Some wheelbarrows are designed for certain tasks.
For example, a concrete wheelbarrow is better suited for hauling around mortar, bricks, and concrete on a construction site.
You can purchase wheelbarrows for concrete construction with one wheel, two wheels, or four wheels. Additionally, you can purchase hand wheelbarrows or motorized wheelbarrows for concrete.
What to Expect? If you’re trying to find the best wheelbarrow for concrete, this guide breaks down the top customer-recommended wheelbarrows available for purchase on the market today.
What Makes A Wheelbarrow Good For Moving Concrete?
While it may seem that all wheelbarrows serve the same purpose, several elements separate the best wheelbarrows for concrete from an average wheelbarrow.
So, what makes a wheelbarrow suitable for hauling concrete?
1. Material
Concrete’s a pretty tough material.
Just like you’d want a wheelbarrow that is tough and fit for purpose.
In particular, you’d want to take a look at the material of the wheelbarrow because that will establish the durability and toughness of it.
When searching for wheelbarrows for concrete you can choose either steel or plastic.
While some wheelbarrows use thick molded plastic, steel tubs are tougher and can take heavier loads.
You can also carry bricks, stones, cement, and ballast in the tub, without damaging it.
2. Weight of the wheelbarrow
Nobody wants to lug around unnecessary weight on a construction site.
So even when you buy a heavy-duty wheelbarrow, you should consider the maximum weight that’s comfortable for you.
In those cases, lightweight and strong is best.
But when the weight to move is heavy concrete, you will have to cut a few weight advantages for a few more pounds.
3. Stability and loading capacity
A solid wheelbarrow will always be safe, even with maximum weight.
The exact capacity will depend mostly on the size of the wheelbarrow.
If you want to carry more, get a wheelbarrow with a bigger cart size.
Bigger wheelbarrow have more versatility – you can use them for basic gardening, mixing concrete, and moving stuff. Of course the more capacity the wheelbarrow has, the bigger and heavier and more costly it will become.
That said, always consider if the wheelbarrow you are buying fits your body size.
In other words, it wouldn’t be that helpful to order a wheelbarrow that you can’t control, or leaves you really tired to use because it is so heavy to lift or push.
4. How many wheels does the wheelbarrow have?
Wheelbarrows typically come in two options: single and double wheeled.
Single wheeled wheelbarrows are stable on uneven terrain so they would be ideal for working in hilly areas.
Double wheeled wheelbarrows aren’t as adaptable as single wheeled when it comes to loading and dumping but can be better for longer distances and in hauling heavier loads.
The main piece of advice with double wheeled wheelbarrows is: if you are going to be in a tight space or needing to dump loads more often than not, you will want to have a single wheeled wheelbarrow.
5. Shape handles and supports of the wheelbarrow
Most wheelbarrows have two straight metal/hardwood handles but you can also have bent-arm handles, which are easier to handle.
You can lift the handles up and make it easier to steer the wheelbarrow.
Finally- Below the handles, the supports for the wheelbarrow will allow your legs to move freely, as you push or pull the wheelbarrow.
6. Handling of the wheelbarrow
Construction wheelbarrows are huge, with models designed to carry heavy loads.
You can haul mortar, bricks, and concrete on them.
These are made for loads to 500 pounds, so you shouldn’t have any problems handling the wheelbarrows.
7. Durability and weather-resistance
Concrete wheelbarrows deal with all sorts of construction and gardening chemicals.
They are exposed to water and sometimes cement during mixing. For this reason you want your wheelbarrow to be durable.
You can double-check the durability of your wheelbarrow based on the amount of rust protection it provides. The best option with the most rust protection is galvanized metal parts on the wheelbarrow.
Also look to see if the manufacturer powdered the wheelbarrow for protection against corrosion.
6 Best Wheelbarrows For Concrete
1. Gorilla Cart Heavy-Duty Poly Wheelbarrow
Top Features
- Quick-release dump for quick unloading
- Rustproof poly bed
- 13-inch pneumatic tires
- 6 cubic ft capacity
- Convertible handlebar for pulling and towing with a vehicle
The Gorilla Carts poly dump cart is a real standout.
The rigid steel frame supports a poly bed that is maintenance free, and can haul up to a whopping 1200 pounds.
What also makes this wheelbarrow different is its heavy-duty body construction, which allows you to haul the maximum weight without worrying about damaging a poly bed like a wood, or metal framed wheelbarrow.
It provides added support and strength over standard metal frames.
The wheelbarrow has four, 13-inch diameter pneumatic tires.
The tires which are made of synthetic & natural rubber, wires, and fabrics use air to preserve their circular shape while you are pushing them around.
Pneumatic tires provide better traction than regular tires because they have better-rolling friction which allows for more stability while utilizing the wheelbarrow to transport concrete.
Pros
- Tight-turning steering, making it easy to maneuver
- Pneumatic wheels for all-terrain application
- Quick and easy assemble
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Difficult to store
One more fantastic feature is the convertible towable handle. This makes it simple to pull by hand or attach to a vehicle for towing.
Plus, you will love the quick-release feature on the wheelbarrow. Instead of screwing the lid of the wheelbarrow on, you can simply engage this quick release feature and save time.
2. WORX Aerocart 8-in-1 Wheelbarrow
Top Features
- Turbo lift design for larger carrying capacities
- 8 different function capabilities
- Rugged tires that do not need inflation
- Metal body
The WORX wheelbarrow is versatile like no other.
With a remarkable 8 features – Including transporting heavy items and construction materials up to 350 lbs.
The WORX wheelbarrow can also be utilized as a cart, a tub organizer, a garden trowel, a cultivator, a pole saw, a leaf blower, a snowplow, etc.
The wheelbarrow consists of a Turbo Lift design, that allows you the leverage needed when transporting heavy items, with a design similar to an industrial size cargo carrier, for horizontal and vertical operation.
And, the wheelbarrow, includes all-terrain tires, which, do not need airflow, rugged tires, suitable for rough terrains, that would destroy normal tires.
So, the tires are placed in a way, to give the best placement of the center of gravity, to keep the wheelbarrow stable on all terrain.
The tires, moreover, include open treads, for smooth climbing through mud, and water, so you never lose grip on the surface for easier stability, and maneuverability of the wheelbarrow.
Pros
- A durable build
- Versatility-8 different cart functions
- Strong, rugged tires suitable for all-terrain
- A large tub size
- Even weight distribution
- A compactible design
Cons
- It may be uncomfortable for tall people
- Heavy
- It is huge, making its storage quite difficult
The cart assembly is very easy, it’s strong and useful in so many ways that it is very popular with homeowners.
The cart can become smaller and compact by just folding the wheels and removing the handles.
3. A.M. Leonard Poly Wheelbarrow
Top Features
- Durable ABS plastic tray
- Extra-thick hardwood handles
- Pneumatic, flat-free, or narrow flat-free tires with diamond treads
- 500 pounds carrying capacity
- 6 cubic foot poly tub capacity
The A.M Leonard Poly wheelbarrow makes it to the list for the best single wheel cart. As a single wheeled cart, it is easier to turn and navigate in tight spaces.
The poly wheelbarrow provides excellent durability and amazing stability while carrying heavy loads.
The wheelbarrow frame is constructed with a welded angled steel tray and solid hardwood handles.
The handles are comfortable to hold and very durable. So it’s even easier to steer the wheelbarrow and dump the contents.
You See, – the wheelbarrow uses ABS material in the body. ABS is unique in that it has exceptional impact resistance as well as heat and corrosion resistance, providing you with a lengthier service life than a standard wheelbarrow.
Another cool feature of the A.M Leonard Poly wheelbarrow is that you can choose tires with your wheelbarrow.
You could choose a flat-free narrow wheel with microcellular polyurethane foam. The microcellular polyurethane foam can be dense, lightweight and recover its shape after it is deformed.
The flat-free narrow tires will provide a longer service life than pneumatic tires in wet environments and/or in environments with chemicals.
Pros
- Ergonomic handles make it easy to use
- High-quality designs for longevity
- Easy to maneuver
- A heavy-duty undercarriage for added support
Cons
- It takes a lot of storage space
Or you could pick wheels that have a diamond tread pattern.
The unique tread pattern helps to increase traction on the wheelbarrow and perform in different conditions.
The wheelbarrow has a low profile design which allows for great stability and better maneuverability.
4. Best Choice Products Dual Wheelbarrow
Top Features
- A multi-purpose garden cart
- 5 cubic feet capacity tub
- A versatile handlebar
- Heavy-duty plastic bin and powder-coated steel frame
- 2, 13-inch inflatable rubber wheels
This dual-wheel barrow is yet another product with great versatility.
You could use this to carry wood, mulch, gravel and soil. In almost every case of versatility, also allows you to seamlessly switch between working in construction and landscaping.
The barrow has a reusable plastic bin for all types of weather use, and it is resistant to snow, dust and rain. It’s long-lasting, even with harsh chemicals such as concrete.
It has a weight capacity of 330 lbs as well, which utilizes two rubber wheels for easier transport.
The long handle allows for easy push, tilt or pull while using the barrow, making the job easier.
Plus, the thick padded handles feel good in the hand, but you can also use them as a handle and a stand when the barrow is not in use.
Pros
- Easy to maneuver
- Compact size, hence easy to store
- The plastic bin is tough, does not rust, and is easy to clean
- The wheelbarrow is light
- Easy assembly
Cons
- The plastic tub limits its applications on a construction site
They didn’t sacrifice durability, the body of the wheelbarrow’s tub is made of powder-coated steel.
So you know you have a wheelbarrow that will last not only longer but also one that is more likely to have a uniform color than a painted or plated wheelbarrow and is far more economical.
5. Landworks Wheelbarrow Utility Cart
Top Features
- 24V, ¼ HP, 180W brushless motor
- 330 lbs. load capacity
- 13-inch pneumatic, all-terrain inflatable wheels
- 2-5 hours run time at the full battery charge
- Eco-friendly
- Forward and reverse switch with battery indicators on the handle for easier controls
The Landworks wheelbarrow is easy to assemble and handle, very solid, and good value for your money.
It comes with 13″ all-terrain pneumatic wheels and a very powerful (180W) electric motor.
The electric motor uses power from the two, 12V rechargeable batteries which are rated at a run time of 5 hours using trails at about 3.5 mph.
The controls are built in such a way as to be accessible and ergonomic and to reduce the chances of an accident while using the wheelbarrow.
Best of all if you have to move concrete and your up to 300 pounds, you now do not have to worry about straining your back pushing it around.
Pros
- The motor operation lightens heavy loads
- Easy to maneuver
- Sturdy steel body and frame
- The rechargeable batteries make the wheelbarrow economical
- Powerful enough to go uphill
Cons
- Expensive
- No braking system, thus hard to control when going downhill
Landworks wheelbarrows have an alloy steel body. The material is going to be more corrosion-resistant, and cheaper than iron.
You can use the Landworks wheelbarrow for concrete even in the sea. And on land where the harshest climate to metals exists.
6. Makita Powered Wheelbarrow
Top Features
- Up to 100 minutes runtime on the 18V batteries on a full charge
- Brushless motor for optimal performance
- 290 lbs. maximum load capacity
- 3 cubic ft. tub capacity
- Steel bucket
- Control levers on the handles for easier access
The Makita electric wheelbarrow is the last in the list of the best wheelbarrow for concrete.
The battery-powered wheelbarrow has up to 100 minutes run time at full speed of 2.5 mph.
It operates with two, 18 volts, rechargeable lithium batteries and a brushless motor for optimum performance.
The brushless motor is an appealing attribute because it generally means less maintenance, less noise, and lasts longer.
More importantly – The motor enables more life from your battery in that it is a more efficient use of power. It makes the wheelbarrow lighter itself as the motor is smaller.
The wheelbarrow has a steel bucket which is durable and interchangeable.
Compared to typical wheelbarrows, the steel bucket is rust resistant, making it easy to clean.
Furthermore, the wheelbarrow has a great amount of versatility in that you can use to go from a wheelbarrow to a flatbed carrier in just a matter of minutes.
Pros
- Water-resistant coating for rust protection
- Large carrying capacity
- Power-assisted maneuvering
- Rechargeable battery
- Brushless motor that delivers impressive performance
Cons
- Expensive
- Battery not included in the package
The ergonomics of this wheel barrow are also very impressive.
For example, the motor controls, or buttons, are on the handles making it easy to start, or stop, or reverse or change of speed of the wheel barrow.
And, the three wheels on the wheel barrow frame makes it easy to use, maneuver, and completely stable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do you need a wheelbarrow for your construction work?
Getting construction right can be fickle and you want to get it right from the start.
Getting the right tools to transport materials or mix concrete should be at or very near your starting point.
But be sure to select a product that is functional and able to maneuverable fault and easily transport gravel, cement, and concrete.
How do you clean your wheelbarrow?
Before you toss it away in the shed, don’t forget to clean your wheelbarrow. Use a stiff-bristle brush to get the bay clean and then flush the wheelbarrow tub’s content out with a little water. Be sure you clean the concrete before it hardens..
Other things to note: Cleaning your wheelbarrow does create some longevity in regards to the life of your wheelbarrow, but do not scratch the top coat, which helps to protect against rusting over time.
How should I store my wheelbarrow?
If you don’t have a wheelbarrow rack in your garage, you can store the wheelbarrow tilted against the wall. This way you won’t have to worry about it tipping over and can grab it again when you have some use for it.
Otherwise, you could drill some screws on the wall. Or you could just leave it standing since some wheelbarrows have batteries and they could spill if they are left hanging.
Bottom line
When you’re looking to buy a wheelbarrow for concrete, sturdiness is the main thing to look out for. The wheelbarrow will also need to be stable, easy to handle, and have the right amount of hauling capacity.
Most importantly, it is worth taking note of the wheelbarrow’s size so that it matches your stature to reduce the chances of overstrains or overly-distracted stops while you are moving materials around your work site.
A single wheel cart would be easier to navigate around tight corners, but a 2, 3, or 4 wheeled wheelbarrow offers much more support and therefore better stability while carrying/hauling materials into place.
The best thing is, wherever you want to go, you can choose from our list of some of the best wheelbarrows for concrete.