Hose Reel and Cart Capacity Explained
Capacity claims only mean something when they name a hose size. Here is how to read them and how to pick between a reel and a cart.
A Capacity Figure Needs a Hose Size Attached
Every reel and cart in this catalogue states capacity against 1/2 inch or 13 mm hose, for example store up to 45 m of 1/2 inch hose. A figure given without a hose size cannot be checked and will be wrong for at least half the hoses on the market, because a thicker wall means fewer metres on the same drum.
Reel or Cart Is About Where the Tap Is
A reel stays where it is put and suits a garden with one outdoor tap and a short walk to everything. A cart has wheels and a handle and suits a garden where the hose has to travel, typically front and back from a single tap. The capacity is often identical, which is why this catalogue offers both formats at the same storage rating.
When to Step Up to a Metal Frame
The 100 metre capacity models use a metal frame, and their published net weight is roughly double the equivalent plastic unit. That weight is the point: a drum holding 100 metres of filled hose puts real load on the axle. For 40 to 60 metre capacities a plastic frame is the sensible commercial choice.
Capacity Costs CBM
Reels and carts are the bulkiest items in a watering programme, running roughly 0.07 to 0.109 CBM per carton at three to twelve pieces. Because the container fills on volume, deciding the reel mix is effectively deciding the container plan. Plan it from the published CBM figures rather than from unit price alone.
More From the Knowledge Centre
Garden Hose Sizes Explained for Retail Buyers
Why 1/2 inch, 5/8 inch and 3/4 inch are not interchangeable and how hose size decides every other product on your watering wall.
Product GuideHose Connector Types and When to Use Each One
Plain, soft coated, water stop, lock, zinc and metal cap connectors do different jobs. Here is how to place each of them on a retail wall.
Buying GuideHow to Choose a Garden Sprinkler by Lawn Shape
Impulse, oscillating and rotating arm sprinklers each suit a different lawn. Match the mechanism to the shape before you compare prices.
Product GuideSpray Gun Patterns Explained
What seven, eight and nine pattern actually means, which settings customers really use, and how to tier a gun wall.
Buying GuideWater Wand Buying Guide for Container Gardens
Fixed or telescopic, shower head or pattern head. How to pick the wand that matches the customer's plants rather than the customer's hose.
ComparisonMechanical Versus Electronic Water Timers
Why a two hour mechanical dial still outsells electronics in a garden aisle, and where each one actually belongs.
Process GuideReading Carton Data and Planning a Container
CBM, pieces per carton, net and gross weight. What each number is for and how to build a watering container that actually fills.
Process GuideRetail Packaging Formats for Garden Watering Products
Blister card, double blister, colour box, tie on card and plastic shrink. What each format costs you in shelf space and in CBM.
Questions About This Topic
Does a hose reel come with hose?
Most models do not, which lets the buyer pair them with their own hose programme. The Lego hose reel set is the exception and includes a 50 ft expandable hose.
How much less 5/8 inch hose will a 1/2 inch rated reel hold?
Less, but we do not publish a conversion factor we have not measured. Rate your listing against the hose size we publish, or send us the hose you plan to sell and we will test it.
Put This Into a Quotation
Send the models you are considering, the volume and the market. We will confirm the specification and the carton data before you price it.