Wheelbarrows & Hand Trucks
(1 Product)Wheelbarrows and hand trucks provide essential manual handling solutions across construction, landscaping, and maintenance environments. Designed for efficiency in material transport, these tools enable controlled movement of aggregates, soil, waste, and equipment across varied terrain and working conditions.
Understanding Wheelbarrows & Hand Trucks
Wheelbarrows and hand trucks form a fundamental category of site transport equipment used to move bulk materials or packaged goods by hand.
Wheelbarrows are typically single or twin-wheel designs featuring a tray, frame, and handles that allow for balanced, forward-tilted carriage of loose or semi-bulk materials. Hand trucks, by contrast, utilise an upright frame and two-wheel axle arrangement for the movement of boxed or bagged loads, offering controlled leverage and stability.
Manufactured primarily from steel, aluminium, or reinforced polymers, wheelbarrows provide corrosion resistance and load-bearing durability suitable for site conditions. The tray capacity commonly ranges from 60 to 120 litres, depending on the intended use, with pneumatic or solid tyres fitted for performance on hardstandings, gravel, or soft ground.
Hand trucks typically feature welded tubular frames, non-slip handles, and toe plates engineered to support distributed loads up to several hundred kilograms.
These manual handling tools occupy a critical role in both domestic and commercial environments, reducing strain during lifting operations and ensuring safe material distribution over short distances.
Their design promotes ergonomics, stability, and longevity in repetitive use, aligning with construction site safety and productivity requirements.
Material Range
- Steel Wheelbarrows: Galvanised or painted metal trays and tubular steel frames providing high impact resistance and long service life in heavy-duty applications.
- Plastic Wheelbarrows: Lightweight, corrosion-resistant polypropylene or HDPE trays suitable for horticultural and light construction use.
- Twin-Wheel Barrows: Dual-wheel support enhancing balance and stability for heavier or uneven loads.
- Hand Trucks (Sack Trucks): Upright steel or aluminium frames with rubber or pneumatic tyres designed for moving crates, boxes, and bags efficiently.
Key Features
- Load Capacity: Optimised tray and frame designs provide efficient manual transport for loads between 60–250 kg depending on model.
- Construction: Reinforced frames and ergonomic handles ensure rigidity and operator control under load.
- Wheel Options: Pneumatic tyres for rough or uneven surfaces, or puncture-proof solid rubber alternatives for low-maintenance use.
- Corrosion Resistance: Galvanised coatings and polymer components resist rust and weather degradation in outdoor use.
- Ergonomics: Balanced weight distribution reduces strain and enhances control during loading and unloading.
- Maintenance: Simple construction allows for replacement of tyres, bolts, and handles to extend working life.
Typical Applications
- Construction Sites: Used for the movement of sand, mortar, rubble, and site materials where mechanical access is limited.
- Landscaping: Transport of soil, gravel, compost, and plants across varied terrain.
- Agriculture: Handling feed, waste, and produce efficiently within yards or fields.
- Warehousing: Hand trucks assist with safe movement of boxed stock and packaged materials within logistics environments.
Specification & Standards
- BS EN 1757-3: Specifies safety requirements and testing for pedestrian-propelled industrial trucks including wheelbarrows and hand trucks.
- Load Testing: Conformance to manufacturer-declared maximum loads ensures operational safety and stability under working conditions.
- Material Finish: Galvanised or powder-coated steel to BS EN ISO 1461 for corrosion protection.
Related Materials and Construction Uses
Wheelbarrows and hand trucks complement manual handling systems and site logistics equipment such as mortar tubs, tipping skips, and storage racks.
They are typically used alongside loose aggregates, cement, and landscaping materials, providing the link between storage and placement. In both building and maintenance contexts, they integrate with broader site operations to enhance safety and efficiency without reliance on powered machinery.
Frequently Asked Wheelbarrows & Hand Trucks Questions
What Is the Difference Between a Wheelbarrow and a Hand Truck?
A wheelbarrow is a single- or dual-wheel carrier designed for moving loose materials such as soil or gravel, while a hand truck (sack truck) is a two-wheel upright trolley for transporting boxed or stacked goods.
What Materials Are Wheelbarrows Commonly Made From?
Wheelbarrow trays are typically made from steel, galvanised steel, or high-density polyethylene (HDPE). Frames are generally constructed from steel tubing for rigidity, with corrosion protection applied through galvanisation or powder coating.
How Much Can a Standard Wheelbarrow Carry?
Most garden and construction wheelbarrows have a load capacity between 85 and 120 litres, with weight limits ranging from 100kg to 200kg depending on frame strength, tray material, and wheel type.
What Type of Wheel Is Best for a Wheelbarrow?
Pneumatic wheels provide smoother handling and shock absorption on uneven terrain, while solid or puncture-proof wheels are preferred for rough construction sites where durability and low maintenance are priorities.
Are Metal Wheelbarrows Suitable for All Applications?
Metal wheelbarrows offer superior load strength and are suitable for heavy or abrasive materials, but they may corrode if not sufficiently maintained. For corrosive or wet environments, a galvanised or plastic model may be more appropriate.
How Should a Wheelbarrow Be Stored and Maintained?
Wheelbarrows should be stored under cover to prevent rusting and checked regularly for loose fastenings, worn bearings, and tyre pressure. Cleaning after use reduces corrosion and extends the service life of the tray and frame.
What Are the Typical Uses of a Hand Truck?
Hand trucks are commonly used for transporting boxes, sacks, and other heavy loads in warehouses, workshops, and delivery environments. They are suited for smooth, hard surfaces and designed to reduce manual lifting strain.
Do Wheelbarrows and Hand Trucks Comply with Any Standards?
While there is no specific British Standard for wheelbarrows, construction and material quality often align with general standards such as BS EN ISO 11148 for hand-held tools and BS EN 10025 for structural steel.
Can Replacement Wheels or Components Be Purchased Separately?
Yes, most professional wheelbarrows and hand trucks allow for replacement wheels, handles, or bolts. Matching the wheel size and bearing type to the original specification ensures safe and consistent performance.
What Safety Considerations Apply When Using Wheelbarrows or Hand Trucks?
Always balance the load evenly, avoid overfilling, and maintain clear visibility when moving. For hand trucks, secure the load with straps if necessary and ensure the route is stable and free from obstructions.
