If you are fond of gardening, chances are you have found yourself hauling different things every once in a while. This can be a light chore if you are just dealing with grass debris here and there. But if the time comes that you need to transport heavy things like wood logs, stones or soil, you can definitely use some help.
Having the best dump cart for lawn tractor is a must to transport heavy things here and there. If you are planning to purchase one, we listed down the top seven out in the market, so read on!
Best Dump Carts for Lawn Tractor
With a lot of options in the market, how would you know you are buying the best one? Keep on reading to know more about the top dump carts out there!
1. Agri-Fab 45-0101 Tow Behind Dump Cart
Just because the main purpose of your dump cart is to lift heavy things, it does not mean you will forget about its looks. This Agri-Fab tow behind dump cart is manufactured with scratch-proof design, and it will still look new despite all the heavy load it carries.
The dry coat finish, on the other hand, helps with the longevity of the product. This sleek black monochrome look will last you for a long time.
More on its durability, it is constructed with a steel bed that sizes 32.5"W x 49"L x 12"H. Surely, it can hold all the wood logs and soils you want it to with its 750lb capacity.
Say goodbye to shoulder fatigue and body pains because this product can maneuver with ease. It already comes with wheel bearings with greased zerks, so you are good to go – no need to think about installation too much because the manufacturer prepared the machine for you.
The 16" x 4" pneumatic tires give you a smooth, hassle-free experience when your tractor tows this dump cart from one place to another, even if your lawn surface is rough.
Pros
- Dump cart bed is made from steel
- Features pneumatic tires for smooth transportation
- Universal hitch attaches to every tractor
- Foot-lever dumping mechanism
Cons
- Might take effort and time to assemble
- Steel bed might rust after a certain period
2. Gorilla Carts GOR10-16 Super Heavy-Duty Poly Dump Cart
If you are looking for a dump cart with a large capacity and is made from top-of-the-line materials, this one is perfect for you.
This is the best dump cart for a garden tractor and claims to be a super heavy-duty one. Well, it is true to its promise. This model is created to carry loads up to 1,500lb! It also features a combination of modern designs that makes it easier to maneuver than other dump carts out there.
The cart’s bed is made from polyethylene and features a 10cu. ft. capacity, enabling users to load and fit large-sized materials and debris. With this capacity, you need less time in hauling and have more time doing other tasks.
Not only is it a tow type dump cart, you can also pull it yourself since it features a 2-in-1 convertible handle. When you just need to haul light debris like grass and leaves, try using it manually for a nice exercise. It will not give you a hard time in terms of transportation with its 4, 16inch pneumatic tires!
The manufacturer incorporated an exclusive dump feature. You can easily tilt the bed upward, and the cart stays in place for balance.
Pros
- Made from rust-free material
- Features pneumatic tires for smooth transportation
- Comes with a modern dumping system
- Can be used with a tractor or by hand
Cons
- Might take effort and time to assemble
3. Yard Commander 10 Cubic Foot Steel Dump Cart
If you are reading this list, surely you want to make your gardening easier, and you might have gardening tasks that wheelbarrows cannot handle, well this yard cart might be for you.
This well-constructed cart has one of the largest capacities out in the market. Its 400lbs load capacity paired with its 10 cubic ft volume capacity, allows users to transport and haul anything they like.
Even if you use it for years, it will still wow you with its durability. The steel bed is rustproof and has undergone a dry finishing process, so you know it is sturdy and will last a long time. The two 13-inch pneumatic tires make transporting the heavy load an ease. You will not encounter problems even if your lawn is bumpy.
Not only for day to day use, but you can also easily attach it to your tractor and even use it with your hand. Its compact size allows it to be multipurpose. In terms of dumping, it comes with a detachable tailgate and an easy release technology.
Dumping really is easy since it can be used as a wheelbarrow. Also, it is compact, so it can be easily turned in tight corners.
Pros
- Features an enormous 400lbs capacity
- Comes with two 13-inch pneumatic tires for easy navigation
- Universal hitch attaches to every tractor
- Compact size makes it easy to turn in tight corners
Cons
- Might be heavy to pull if used by hand
- Need to assemble some parts again after dumping
4. Agri-Fab Poly Tow Behind Dump Cart
Agri-Fab is known to manufacture durable, and top-of-the-line tools and this dump cart is true to its promise. This model is created to allow users to take care of their lawn with an ease. It is engineered to be assembled easily and is accompanied by more features, making it a top-performing dump cart.
Regardless of the type and brand of your lawn tractor, this will surely be compatible with it. The two pneumatic tires allow easy transport for flat or even bumpy lawn areas. Specifically, the wheels are sized at 16" by 6.5" and a large base for fast transportation.
It has a very large capacity of 800lb, which allows you to haul whichever material you want even how heavy they are. Despite this heavy load, you will still have a smooth transportation experience with its grease fitting wheels, which are easy to maintain.
For dumping, it features a foot-activated pump pedal that is easy to operate. You do not need to exert too much effort to tilt the cart, and it saves time. The frame on this model is scratch-proof, and it has undergone a dry finishing process. Thus, it is durable and will last you for years.
Pros
- Features an enormous 800lbs capacity
- Includes a foot-activated pump pedal for easy dumping
- Comes with a scratch-proof frame
- Large pneumatic tires are easy to navigate
Cons
- Not multi-functional like other dump carts
5. CRAFTSMAN CMXGZBF7124489 10-cu ft Poly Dump Cart
This Craftsman Poly Dump Cart is simple, yet it can perform just like the other ones on this list. Its sleek design with its black and red accent is really eye-catching and modern at the same time.
For its features, it is a 10-cu. ft. poly cart that allows you to haul a lot of materials, may it be gravel, stones or soil, and even wood logs.
Not to worry if you need to transport a lot because it has an enormous capacity of up to 500lb. This definitely makes the work easier and faster since you can load a lot. You do not need to go back and forth a lot of times to finish the workload.
Since it is made from the poly bed, you will not have to worry about rust damaging your dump cart. This gives you the freedom to load materials – dry or wet. The 14-inch pneumatic tires allow smooth transportation. Adding to this, the manufacturer also incorporated ribbed style technology to the wheels.
The dumping is easy with this model since it has a foot pedal release system. This cart is versatile and can be used for all tractors out there.
Pros
- The 500lb capacity is great for heavy material transportation
- Features a foot-activated pump pedal for easy dumping
- Model is rust proof
- Features pneumatic and rib style wheels that are easy to navigate
Cons
- 14-inch tires may be too small for other users
6. Craftsman CMXGZBF7124355 12-cu ft Steel Tow Dump Cart
We have another Craftsman manufactured model in this list, and this one is for the people out there who need more capacity. This tool is perfect for heavy-duty use and large hauling jobs. Whatever you wish to transfer, may it be rocks, soil or wood, this machine is the perfect partner for your lawn tractor.
The manufacturer still kept the black and red color to this model. One of the highlights of this tow dump cart is its large capacity. It is able to hold up to 750lbs of materials. And since it has a larger capacity, Craftsman also took the cart material to the next level. Instead of using polyethylene, they chose to construct it with steel.
Moreover, the tailgate in this model is easily detachable since it is accompanied by guides which you can find under the cart bed. Like other dump carts, it features a foot-activated dump release accompanied by a 40° angle, which makes emptying an ease.
It also features larger tires, and these 16-inch tires are pneumatic. The rib style accompanied by the pneumatic tires allows easy transportation. You will not feel any issues, even if your lawn is rough and bumpy.
Pros
- The 750lbs capacity is great for heavy material transportation
- Features a foot-activated pump pedal for easy dumping
- Made from steel
- Comes with pneumatic and rib style wheels that are easy to navigate
Cons
- Needs the effort to assemble
7. Ohio Steel 4048PSD Heaped Poly Dump Cart with Swivel Dump
Ohio Steel is known to provide the market heavy-duty and durable products that are true to their promises. This model is one of the best you can find out there, and we will tell you why.
One factor that can make or break a dump cart is, of course, its dumping performance. This tool features a swivel dump technology. Not only that, but it also is a foot-activated release one.
You can dump anywhere and anytime with ease since it features an impressive 105-degree radius. Also, you can rest assured it’ll empty the whole cart in an instant.
It will also wow you with its large capacity. With the 750lb and 12.5cu. ft. capacity of this model, you can surely fit and load a lot. Transferring and hauling all those soil, rocks, and woods should be an ease with this model.
This model is also impact resistant, so you do not have to worry about it breaking. It is compatible with almost all garden tractors out there. Also, it comes with a hitch pin for your convenience.
Pros
- Swivel dump makes emptying easy since the cart can rotate up to 105-degrees
- Features an enormous 750lbs and 12.5 cu. ft. capacity
- 6” by 15.5” tires are fast for transportation and easy to navigate
Cons
- Might take time and effort to assemble
- The dump cart alone might be heavy
What to Look for Before Buying a Dump Cart for Lawn Tractors?
It seems like capacity is the only thing you should consider when buying a dump cart, but there are a lot more factors that you should think of before you decide which one to purchase. Dump carts come in a wide range of prices, and they can be quite expensive sometimes. Hence, you should consider these tools as investments.
Like any other tool, it is important to get a good performance and longevity from your dump carts. It is, of course, important as well to know how you would want to use it. We listed these factors and considerations as a guide, so be sure to read on!
Materials
It is crucial to consider the material the cart is made of since it will determine how efficient the tool can be. There are a few variations of materials manufacturers use to construct carts. Most dump carts in the market usually fall between two materials. These materials can either be plastic or metal.
Metal
Although still apparently used with most dump carts in the market, metal is slowly being replaced by plastic since it may not be the best choice for consumers anymore. Yes, if you need to transfer a few tons of rocks, soil or wood, metal constructed dump cart is the best option for you.
On the other hand, if you just need to haul debris and materials that weigh a hundred pounds or less, it is not efficient to use a more costly and heavier material.
Still, metal is a good choice since they are more impact resistant even compared to the toughest plastics out there. The major issue for using metal would be the weight of the cart, even if it is pulled alone. Steel is the most commonly used metal since it provides durability without the heaviness.
Plastic
Most people perceive plastic as a cheap and non-durable material. While it is true that most plastic-made dump carts are more affordable than metal ones, it does not necessarily mean they are not on par with the performance metal made carts give.
Still, it is important to consider the quality of the plastic to identify if the dump cart will perform well or not.
Plastics have a few benefits compared to metal, especially that they can withstand outdoor elements like temperature and rain. You see, most plastics are water-resistant and have a high melting point as well.
The major concern for using plastic is its reaction to UV radiation. Polyethylene is the most commonly used plastic because it is cheap and lightweight.
Max Load
It is really important to consider the max load of the dump cart regardless of how you intend to use it. There is no doubt that you need one to transfer materials to and from different places of your lawn.
Herein, the compactness and quantity of these materials will determine if you need to purchase a commercial cart or go for the high end and heavy-duty ones with a higher max load.
In relation to this, dump carts with the maximum loading capacity will mostly transport about a thousand pounds, more or less. Logically, if you need a dump cart just for the purpose of hauling branches and other light debris, you will not need the additional max load.
That being said, keep it a must for your dump cart to be able to haul at least 500lbs. This is generally the common max load offered by the market, and anything lower might not perform as great.
Capacity
Capacity is quite the same with max load, but it is not determined the same way. Max load mostly relies on the durability of the cart.
On the other hand, capacity depends on the shape and constructive design of it. This being said, the needed capacity of the dump cart is determined by what size of materials you intend to put into it.
Mobility
While mobility may not seem like a priority, this will greatly affect how efficient and smooth the performance of the dump cart will be. Hence, the mobility of a dump cart is not really determined by one product feature like the rest on this list.
The most crucial feature or quality that affects the dump cart's mobility is the set of tires it comes with. This is in relation to the tire's dimension, tread, and material. In this case, the dimension of the wheels is the most important aspect among the three since more surface area directly relates to better stability.
Also, the other major factor that affects the dump cart's transportation performance is whether or not the trailer enables the dump cart to revolve on a nice angle or not. A dump cart that can do this is no doubt easier to maneuver around tight areas and corners. This also makes the dumping an ease as the cart empties faster.
Types of Dump Carts
Dump carts are a simple piece of garden maintenance machine. Yet, there are still several types of dump carts a gardener can use. Since more and more people switch to using dump carts instead of the traditional wheelbarrows, manufacturers have come up with a variety of types, designs, and sizes to provide the market.
Whatever type or design you are looking for in a dump cart, it is important to know if it can perform the things you intend it to. The following are the various types of dump carts in the market.
Poly Tub Dump Cart
For most consumers, the poly tub type of dump cart is the best option. These types of carts are built with heavy-duty plastic material, which ensures longevity and sturdiness. Poly tub carts are also more affordable than other types in the market.
Since it is made from plastic, it is waterproof so you can haul all the debris and manures you need, and it will surely not leak. The poly dump cart is also very easy to clean and maintain, and you can use your garden hose to clean it with ease.
Plastic Tub Dump Cart
Plastic tub carts are also a nice option for those gardeners and homeowners who wish to maintain the cleanliness of their lawn. This type of dump cart has a similar look with the poly tub dump carts, but they are significantly cheaper. Well, this is due to the low-quality plastic material they are constructed with.
While it is true that the plastic tub dump cart is the weakest of these types, it does not mean that it is a bad choice. Not all gardeners aim to use dump carts for a heavy load of materials and debris. Hence, this is the best option for those who need to haul lightweight materials.
Steel Tub Dump Cart
By far, the steel tub dump carts are the most heavy-duty ones you can easily find in the market. Because of this, they tend to cost a lot more compared to the first two types we discussed. Yet, the additional money you will invest in steel types is worth it.
Some of the common features of this type of dump cart are the detachable tailgate. This makes dumping easy and fast without creating a mess.
Another benefit of using a steel dump cart is that it has the capacity to carry the heaviest materials, which makes it versatile. You will not have any issues in hauling rocks, soils, and gravel. On the other hand, steel carts have the tendency to rust, so choose one with a nice coating.
Structural Form “Polymer” Dump Cart
This type of dump cart is popularized by the top-of-the-line polymer materials, which is the main material it is constructed with. The low- density character of the polymer makes this type of tub truly heavy-duty. Most quality polymer tubs are scratch and stain resistant, which adds to its popularity.
On the other hand, most polymer-made dump carts feature extra pockets on their side. This allows the user to fit more on the cart than other types out there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to grease the tires of my new dump cart before I use it?
Generally, wheels do not arrive pre-greased. Although, the manufacturers usually do the fittings for you but make sure to still add grease before you use them.
How long does it take to detach the wheels of my dump cart if I want to store them?
It will not take a lot of time as long as you know how to do it. In 3 minutes or even less, you can remove the wheels given one cotter pin each tire.
Are dump carts hard to assemble/ put together?
If you are pertaining to attaching the rack to the trailer, then you need a companion to hold and align it while you drill the top. With the manuals and video instructions out there, you can surely do it without issues.
How do you make the dump feature work?
Most dump carts feature a foot-activated dumping system. For some models, you just need to pull the handle, and it will release the cart.
Are steel type dump carts a must for small lawns?
No, a high-quality plastic one will do, considering you will only haul light materials.
To Wrap It All Up
With all the best dump carts for lawn tractor we listed and the buyer's guide, we hope you have decided on the one you'll love! Good luck and happy gardening!