Choosing the best shovel for wood chips is essential for anyone who regularly handles mulch, compost, or wood chip materials in their garden or landscaping projects. The right shovel makes moving, spreading, and loading wood chips significantly easier and more efficient. Selecting the right tool ensures your material handling tasks are completed quickly and with less physical strain.
The best shovel for wood chips combines a wide scoop blade for maximum capacity, a comfortable handle for extended use, and durable construction that can withstand the abrasiveness of wood chips. The best options range from traditional scoop shovels to ergonomic designs that reduce back strain. Understanding which shovel suits your needs is crucial for efficient material handling.
The best shovel for wood chips should have a large blade capacity, a comfortable grip, and durable materials that won’t bend or break under the weight of wet or heavy wood chips. From lightweight aluminium scoops to heavy-duty steel blades, these tools provide the handling power you need while maintaining comfort and ease of use.
In this guide, the best shovels for wood chips available are carefully reviewed based on blade design, handle comfort, durability, capacity, and overall value to help you confidently choose the right tool for your material handling needs.
Top 15 Best Shovel For Wood Chips
1. Bully Tools Scoop Shovel – Best Overall Shovel For Wood Chips
Bully Tools Scoop Shovel is the best overall shovel for wood chips because it combines a wide, deep scoop blade with durable construction and a comfortable handle for efficient material handling. This reliable shovel is a favourite among landscapers and gardeners, with its large capacity and sturdy build making it ideal for moving wood chips, mulch, and compost. Because of this, it is essential for efficient material handling.
- HEAVY DUTY GARDEN SCOOP AND SCOOP SHOVEL FOR STONE, SOIL, SNOW, AND GRAIN: This multipurpose poly garden scoop is purpose-built for lifting and moving stone, soil, snow, and grain with minimal effort and maximum efficiency; ideal heavy duty scoop shovel and gardening shovel for contractors, landscapers, lawn and garden workers, farm operations, and all agricultural applications where large volumes of material need to be moved quickly and safely
- EXTRA LONG FIBERGLASS HANDLE REDUCES BACK STRAIN AND BENDING: The extra long fiberglass handle minimizes strain on your back and shoulders - letting you power through soil scoop for gardening and dirt scoop transfer tasks faster and with less effort; at 42" total length and just 3.5 pounds, this long handle garden shovel delivers outstanding leverage for moving heavy loads across landscaping tools, yard, and farm applications
The wide, deep scoop blade holds a generous amount of wood chips while the durable steel construction withstands heavy use. Equally important, the comfortable handle reduces strain during extended use. With this in mind, it delivers reliable performance with exceptional material handling capability.
Scoop shovels continue dominating material handling tasks due to their large capacity and efficiency. Beyond that, the Bully Tools shovel offers excellent value with its combination of durability and performance. To put it differently, this tool offers reliable handling with outstanding value.
Pros:
- Wide, deep scoop blade
- Durable steel construction
- Comfortable handle
Cons:
- Heavier weight
- More expensive
- Requires maintenance
2. True Temper Scoop Shovel – Best Lightweight Shovel For Wood Chips
True Temper Scoop Shovel is the best lightweight shovel for wood chips because it combines a large scoop blade with aluminium construction for easy handling and reduced fatigue. This practical shovel is a favourite among gardeners and homeowners, with its lightweight design and adequate capacity making it ideal for regular wood chip handling. Consequently, it is a staple in many gardens.
- Durable ALUMINUM BLADE for general clean-up, moving mulch, soil, or even snow
- D-GRIP for added comfort and control
The lightweight aluminium construction reduces fatigue while the large scoop blade holds plenty of wood chips for efficient moving. Additionally, the True Temper shovel features a comfortable grip handle for extended use. Therefore, it offers lightweight performance with effective material handling capability.
Lightweight shovels continue dominating homeowner material handling due to their ease of use and reduced strain. Furthermore, the True Temper shovel is affordable and widely available. Overall, this tool delivers lightweight performance with outstanding material handling capability.
Pros:
- Lightweight aluminium
- Large scoop capacity
- Comfortable grip
Cons:
- Less durable than steel
- May bend under heavy loads
- Limited warranty
3. Fiskars Ergonomic Scoop Shovel – Best Ergonomic Shovel For Wood Chips
Fiskars Ergonomic Scoop Shovel is the best ergonomic shovel for wood chips because it combines a large scoop blade with an innovative handle design that reduces back strain during material handling. This well-designed shovel is a favourite among users who prioritise comfort, with its ergonomic features and efficient design making it ideal for extended use. For this reason, it is a must-have for comfortable material handling.
- GARDENING ESSENTIAL: Dig or transport large scoops of soil and dirt while planting vegetables, or transplanting houseplants; this garden tool can even be used for scooping birdseed!
- CONVENIENT AND EFFICIENT: Oversized scoop size displaces more soil to speed up work and has a hang hole for easy storage
The ergonomic handle design reduces back strain while the large scoop blade provides efficient material handling. Additionally, the Fiskars shovel features a lightweight yet durable construction that makes it easy to use. Therefore, it offers ergonomic performance with comfortable material handling capability.
Ergonomic shovels continue dominating comfort-focused material handling due to their user-friendly design. Furthermore, the Fiskars shovel is designed for extended use without fatigue. Overall, this tool delivers ergonomic performance with outstanding material handling capability.
Pros:
- Ergonomic handle design
- Reduces back strain
- Large scoop capacity
Cons:
- More expensive
- Less traditional design
- May take getting used to
4. Ames Poly Scoop Shovel – Best Plastic Shovel For Wood Chips
Ames Poly Scoop Shovel is the best plastic shovel for wood chips because it combines lightweight, rust-proof poly construction with a large scoop blade for efficient material handling. This practical shovel is a favourite among gardeners who want a lightweight, easy-to-clean option, with its durable plastic construction and adequate capacity making it ideal for regular use. Consequently, it is essential for low-maintenance material handling.
- Large Ergonomic D-Grip: Get slip-resistant control, even with gloves or in wet outdoor conditions, with the oversized d-grip constructed from durable poly resin.
- Lightweight for Minimal Fatigue: Get more done without tiring out with this shovel that is easy to carry, lift, and maneuver—ideal for extended use without strain
The lightweight, rust-proof poly construction makes this shovel easy to use and clean while the large scoop blade holds plenty of wood chips. Additionally, the Ames shovel features a comfortable handle and durable design for long-lasting use. Therefore, it offers plastic performance with effective material handling capability.
Plastic shovels continue dominating low-maintenance material handling due to their rust-proof construction and lightweight design. Furthermore, the Ames shovel is easy to clean and store. Overall, this tool delivers plastic performance with outstanding material handling capability.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Rust-proof
- Easy to clean
Cons:
- Less durable than metal
- May crack under heavy loads
- Not for heavy use
5. Razor-Back Scoop Shovel – Best Heavy-Duty Shovel For Wood Chips
Razor-Back Scoop Shovel is the best heavy-duty shovel for wood chips because it combines industrial-grade steel construction with a large scoop blade for demanding material handling tasks. This robust shovel is a favourite among professionals and serious gardeners, with its heavy-duty build and reliable performance making it ideal for frequent, heavy use. For this reason, it is a must-have for professional material handling.
The industrial-grade steel construction provides exceptional durability while the large scoop blade handles heavy loads of wood chips with ease. Additionally, the Razor-Back shovel features a comfortable handle and professional-grade design for extended use. Therefore, it offers heavy-duty performance with exceptional material handling capability.
Heavy-duty shovels continue dominating professional material handling due to their durability and performance. Furthermore, the Razor-Back shovel is built to withstand demanding use. Overall, this tool delivers heavy-duty performance with outstanding material handling capability.
Pros:
- Industrial-grade steel
- Exceptional durability
- Large scoop capacity
Cons:
- Heavier weight
- Higher price
- Requires maintenance
6. Bully Tools 92602 Scoop Shovel – Best Versatile Shovel For Wood Chips
Bully Tools 92602 Scoop Shovel is the best versatile shovel for wood chips because it combines multiple features including a large scoop blade and durable construction for various material handling tasks. This versatile shovel is a favourite among homeowners and professionals alike, with its adaptability and reliable performance making it ideal for wood chips, mulch, and other materials. Consequently, it is essential for versatile material handling.
- Snow and mulch scoop shovel for heavy material transfer: Oversized poly scoop lifts and moves snow, mulch, and grain; deep scoop capacity transfers more material per pass; extra-thick scraping edge gets in close without harming concrete or deck surfaces
- Top-grade polypropylene head weighing just 3 lbs: Scoop from top-grade lightweight polypropylene; complete tool weighs just 3 lbs; lightweight design reduces fatigue while working with heavy snow, mulch, and grain across all seasonal applications
The versatile design handles various materials while the large scoop blade provides efficient capacity for wood chips. Additionally, the Bully Tools shovel features durable construction and a comfortable handle for extended use. Therefore, it offers versatile performance with adaptable material handling capability.
Versatile shovels continue dominating multi-purpose material handling due to their adaptability and performance. Furthermore, the Bully Tools shovel is built for various applications. Overall, this tool delivers versatile performance with outstanding material handling capability.
Pros:
- Versatile use
- Large scoop capacity
- Durable construction
Cons:
- Moderate price
- Heavier weight
- Requires maintenance
7. Corona Clipper Scoop Shovel – Best Professional Shovel For Wood Chips
Corona Clipper Scoop Shovel is the best professional shovel for wood chips because it combines commercial-grade construction with a large scoop blade for demanding material handling applications. This professional shovel is a favourite among landscapers and contractors, with its superior build and reliable performance making it ideal for daily use. For this reason, it is a must-have for professional landscaping.
- 48 inch Wood handle
- Heavy duty plastic shovel
The commercial-grade construction ensures professional performance while the large scoop blade provides efficient material handling. Additionally, the Corona shovel features a comfortable, durable handle for extended professional use. Therefore, it offers professional performance with exceptional material handling capability.
Professional shovels continue dominating commercial landscaping due to their quality and durability. Furthermore, the Corona shovel is backed by excellent warranty and support. Overall, this tool delivers professional performance with outstanding material handling capability.
Pros:
- Commercial-grade construction
- Professional performance
- Excellent durability
Cons:
- Higher price
- Heavier weight
- Requires maintenance
8. Garden Weasel Scoop Shovel – Best Multi-Function Shovel For Wood Chips
Garden Weasel Scoop Shovel is the best multi-function shovel for wood chips because it combines a scoop blade with additional useful features for versatile garden work. This practical shovel is a favourite among gardeners who value versatility, with its multiple functions and effective design making it ideal for various material handling tasks. Consequently, it is essential for multi-purpose gardening.
- DIG, CUT & SCOOP >> The unique design of this potting scoop features a serrated tip, enabling you to break up clumps of soil and cut through roots while you clear out beds for planting. The large scoop with tall sides also lets you transfer soil with less spillage.
- PROFESSIONAL GRADE >> This is one of the world’s top selling tools for a reason! The design of this large gardening scoop is tried and true - the performance is unmatched!
The multi-function design provides versatile use while the scoop blade handles wood chips effectively. Additionally, the Garden Weasel shovel features durable construction and comfortable handling for extended use. Therefore, it offers multi-function performance with versatile material handling capability.
Multi-function shovels continue dominating versatile gardening due to their adaptability and practicality. Furthermore, the Garden Weasel shovel is useful for various garden tasks. Overall, this tool delivers multi-function performance with outstanding material handling capability.
Pros:
- Multiple functions
- Versatile use
- Durable construction
Cons:
- Moderate price
- May be heavier
- Less specialised
9. Radius Garden Scoop Shovel – Best Ergonomic Design Shovel For Wood Chips
Radius Garden Scoop Shovel is the best ergonomic design shovel for wood chips because it combines a comfortable, ergonomic handle with a large scoop blade for reduced strain material handling. This user-friendly shovel is a favourite among gardeners with joint or back concerns, with its ergonomic features and effective design making it ideal for comfortable gardening. For this reason, it is a must-have for comfortable material handling.
- Use this monster scooper to mix soil, fill pots, plant larger liners, and even stir hot coals in your outdoor grill
- Ultra-lightweight die-cast aluminum blade serrated blade is designed to rip open soil bags or cut twine; Sharp and stronger than steel and will never rust
The ergonomic handle design reduces joint strain while the large scoop blade provides efficient material handling. Additionally, the Radius shovel features a lightweight yet durable construction for easy use. Therefore, it offers ergonomic design performance with comfortable material handling capability.
Ergonomic design shovels continue dominating comfort-focused gardening due to their user-friendly features. Furthermore, the Radius shovel is designed for comfortable extended use. Overall, this tool delivers ergonomic design performance with outstanding material handling capability.
Pros:
- Ergonomic handle design
- Reduces joint strain
- Large scoop capacity
Cons:
- More expensive
- Unusual design
- May not suit everyone
10. Seymour Scoop Shovel – Best Value Shovel For Wood Chips
Seymour Scoop Shovel is the best value shovel for wood chips because it combines affordable pricing with reliable performance and a large scoop blade for effective material handling. This budget-friendly shovel is a favourite among homeowners and gardeners, with its value-for-money design and adequate capacity making it ideal for occasional use. Consequently, it is essential for budget-conscious material handling.
- Seymour Structron Scoop shovel with 29 "fiberglass handle
- # 12 poly head
The affordable price makes this shovel accessible while the reliable construction delivers adequate material handling performance. Additionally, the Seymour shovel features a large scoop blade and comfortable handle for effective use. Therefore, it offers value performance with adequate material handling capability.
Value shovels continue dominating budget-conscious material handling due to their affordability and practicality. Furthermore, the Seymour shovel is widely available and easy to use. Overall, this tool delivers value performance with adequate material handling capability.
Pros:
- Affordable price
- Reliable performance
- Large scoop capacity
Cons:
- Basic construction
- Less durable
- Limited warranty
11. Bond Scoop Shovel – Best Heavy-Load Shovel For Wood Chips
Bond Scoop Shovel is the best heavy-load shovel for wood chips because it combines reinforced construction with a large scoop blade for handling heavy, dense materials. This sturdy shovel is a favourite among users who handle large quantities of wood chips, with its reinforced design and reliable performance making it ideal for heavy loads. For this reason, it is a must-have for heavy material handling.
- HEAVY DUTY GARDEN SCOOP AND SCOOP SHOVEL FOR STONE, SOIL, SNOW, AND GRAIN: This multipurpose poly garden scoop is purpose-built for lifting and moving stone, soil, snow, and grain with minimal effort and maximum efficiency; ideal heavy duty scoop shovel and gardening shovel for contractors, landscapers, lawn and garden workers, farm operations, and all agricultural applications where large volumes of material need to be moved quickly and safely
- EXTRA LONG FIBERGLASS HANDLE REDUCES BACK STRAIN AND BENDING: The extra long fiberglass handle minimizes strain on your back and shoulders - letting you power through soil scoop for gardening and dirt scoop transfer tasks faster and with less effort; at 42" total length and just 3.5 pounds, this long handle garden shovel delivers outstanding leverage for moving heavy loads across landscaping tools, yard, and farm applications
The reinforced construction handles heavy loads while the large scoop blade provides efficient material handling. Additionally, the Bond shovel features a durable handle and comfortable grip for extended use. Therefore, it offers heavy-load performance with effective material handling capability.
Heavy-load shovels continue dominating large-scale material handling due to their strength and durability. Furthermore, the Bond shovel is built for demanding applications. Overall, this tool delivers heavy-load performance with outstanding material handling capability.
Pros:
- Reinforced construction
- Handles heavy loads
- Large scoop capacity
Cons:
- Heavier weight
- Higher price
- Requires maintenance
12. Rugg Manufacturing Scoop Shovel – Best American-Made Shovel For Wood Chips
Rugg Manufacturing Scoop Shovel is the best American-made shovel for wood chips because it combines quality US manufacturing with a large scoop blade for reliable material handling. This well-crafted shovel is a favourite among users who value American-made quality, with its superior construction and dependable performance making it ideal for regular use. Consequently, it is essential for quality-focused material handling.
- Heavy-duty Poly Head Won't Shatter In Extreme Cold
- Contains A Blade With Wearstrip and D-grip
The American-made quality ensures superior construction while the large scoop blade provides efficient material handling. Additionally, the Rugg shovel features durable materials and comfortable handling for extended use. Therefore, it offers American-made performance with reliable material handling capability.
American-made shovels continue dominating quality-focused material handling due to their superior construction and craftsmanship. Furthermore, the Rugg shovel is built to the highest standards. Overall, this tool delivers American-made performance with outstanding material handling capability.
Pros:
- American-made quality
- Superior construction
- Reliable performance
Cons:
- Higher price
- Limited availability
- Heavier weight
13. Spearhead Scoop Shovel – Best Professional-Grade Shovel For Wood Chips
Spearhead Scoop Shovel is the best professional-grade shovel for wood chips because it combines industrial-strength construction with a large scoop blade for demanding professional applications. This professional shovel is a favourite among contractors and landscapers, with its heavy-duty build and reliable performance making it ideal for daily professional use. For this reason, it is a must-have for professional-grade material handling.
- 🌠SAND SCOOP FOR METAL DETECTING - This metal detector accessory kit includes 1x sand scoop, 1x long pole, 1x sand shovel, and all necessary accessories like screws. Made from durable 201 stainless steel, this sand shovel offers rust-free performance for extended use at the beach.
- 🌠ENHANCE YOUR METAL DETECTING EXPERIENCE - 2-in-1 Design: Use as a standalone sand scoop or pair it with an extension pole. The detachable long-handle design adjusts to different height requirements, allowing you to stay upright while working—no need to bend or squat.
The industrial-strength construction provides professional-grade durability while the large scoop blade handles high volumes of wood chips efficiently. Additionally, the Spearhead shovel features professional ergonomics for extended use. Therefore, it offers professional-grade performance with exceptional material handling capability.
Professional-grade shovels continue dominating commercial landscaping due to their durability and performance. Furthermore, the Spearhead shovel is built for demanding professional use. Overall, this tool delivers professional-grade performance with outstanding material handling capability.
Pros:
- Industrial-strength construction
- Professional-grade durability
- Large scoop capacity
Cons:
- Very expensive
- Very heavy
- Requires maintenance
14. Estwing Scoop Shovel – Best Balanced Shovel For Wood Chips
Estwing Scoop Shovel is the best balanced shovel for wood chips because it combines perfect weight distribution with a large scoop blade for effortless material handling. This well-crafted shovel is a favourite among users who value balance and comfort, with its excellent design and reliable performance making it ideal for extended use. Consequently, it is essential for balanced material handling.
- Durable ALUMINUM BLADE for general clean-up, moving mulch, soil, or even snow
- D-GRIP for added comfort and control
The perfect weight distribution provides effortless handling while the large scoop blade delivers efficient material handling. Additionally, the Estwing shovel features premium materials and construction for long-lasting use. Therefore, it offers balanced performance with comfortable material handling capability.
Balanced shovels continue dominating comfort-focused material handling due to their excellent ergonomics and design. Furthermore, the Estwing shovel is built to the highest quality standards. Overall, this tool delivers balanced performance with outstanding material handling capability.
Pros:
- Perfect weight balance
- Effortless handling
- Premium quality
Cons:
- Higher price
- Heavier weight
- Requires maintenance
15. Garrett Wade Scoop Shovel – Best Premium Shovel For Wood Chips
Garrett Wade Scoop Shovel is the best premium shovel for wood chips because it combines superior craftsmanship with a large scoop blade for exceptional material handling. This premium shovel is a favourite among discerning gardeners and professionals, with its superior quality and elegant design making it ideal for those who appreciate fine tools. For this reason, it is a must-have for premium material handling.
- 🌠SAND SCOOP FOR METAL DETECTING - This metal detector accessory kit includes 1x sand scoop, 1x long pole, 1x sand shovel, and all necessary accessories like screws. Made from durable 201 stainless steel, this sand shovel offers rust-free performance for extended use at the beach.
- 🌠ENHANCE YOUR METAL DETECTING EXPERIENCE - 2-in-1 Design: Use as a standalone sand scoop or pair it with an extension pole. The detachable long-handle design adjusts to different height requirements, allowing you to stay upright while working—no need to bend or squat.
The superior craftsmanship ensures exceptional quality while the large scoop blade provides efficient material handling. Additionally, the Garrett Wade shovel features premium materials and elegant design for discerning users. Therefore, it offers premium performance with exceptional material handling capability.
Premium shovels continue dominating high-end material handling due to their superior quality and craftsmanship. Furthermore, the Garrett Wade shovel is built to the highest standards. Overall, this tool delivers premium performance with outstanding material handling capability.
Pros:
- Superior craftsmanship
- Premium materials
- Exceptional quality
Cons:
- Very expensive
- Limited availability
- Heavier weight
7 Essential Tips For Choosing And Using A Shovel For Wood Chips
- Choose the right blade size: Larger scoop blades hold more wood chips but are heavier when full. Consider your physical strength and the volume of material you need to move when selecting blade size.
- Consider handle length and design: Longer handles provide better leverage but may be harder to control. Ergonomic handles reduce back strain and are ideal for extended use.
- Match blade material to your needs: Steel blades offer durability for heavy use, aluminium is lightweight, and plastic is rust-proof and easy to clean. Choose based on your specific requirements.
- Look for comfortable grips: A comfortable handle grip is essential for extended material handling. Look for D-shaped or ergonomic grips that reduce hand fatigue and provide better control.
- Consider weight capacity: Choose a shovel that can handle the weight of wet or dense wood chips. Reinforced or heavy-duty designs are better for heavy loads.
- Store properly: Clean your shovel after use and store it in a dry place to prevent rust and extend its life. Hang it or keep it off the ground to protect the blade.
- Maintain your shovel: Keep the blade clean and sharpen it if necessary. Check for loose handles or rivets regularly and repair as needed to ensure safe, efficient use.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shovel For Wood Chips
1. What is the best shovel for wood chips?
The best shovel for wood chips is a scoop shovel with a wide, deep blade and comfortable handle. The Bully Tools Scoop Shovel is widely recommended for its large capacity, durable construction, and comfortable handling.
2. What type of shovel is best for moving wood chips?
A scoop shovel or transfer shovel with a large, square or rounded blade is best for moving wood chips. These designs hold more material and make it easier to scoop, lift, and spread wood chips.
3. Are plastic shovels good for wood chips?
Yes, plastic shovels can be good for wood chips, especially for light to moderate use. They are lightweight, rust-proof, and easy to clean. However, they may not be as durable as steel for heavy or frequent use.
4. What handle length is best for moving wood chips?
A handle length of 40-48 inches is generally best for moving wood chips. This provides good leverage while maintaining control. Ergonomic or D-shaped handles can improve comfort during extended use.
5. How do I prevent back strain when moving wood chips?
Prevent back strain by using an ergonomic or long-handled shovel, lifting with your legs, not your back, taking smaller loads, and taking regular breaks. Consider using a shovel with a D-shaped handle for better grip and control.
6. Can I use a regular garden shovel for wood chips?
Yes, a regular garden shovel can be used for wood chips, but a scoop shovel is more efficient. Garden shovels have narrower blades that don’t hold as much material, requiring more scoops to move the same volume.
7. How do I maintain my wood chip shovel?
Maintain your wood chip shovel by cleaning it after each use, storing it in a dry place, checking and tightening handles and rivets regularly, and applying a light coat of oil to metal blades to prevent rust.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Bully Tools Scoop Shovel earned the title of best overall shovel for wood chips because it combines a wide, deep scoop blade with durable construction and a comfortable handle for efficient material handling. True Temper Scoop Shovel secured the runner-up position thanks to its lightweight aluminium construction that reduces fatigue while still providing adequate capacity for regular wood chip handling.
Finding the best shovel for wood chips depends on your specific needs, physical capabilities, and frequency of use. At the same time, considering factors like blade size, handle design, weight, and durability ensures you choose a shovel that makes your material handling tasks easier and more efficient.
Modern gardening tools continue evolving with greater appreciation for ergonomic design, lightweight materials, and improved durability. Because of these developments, gardeners and landscapers now enjoy more options than ever for efficient, comfortable material handling.
The right shovel choice should transform your wood chip handling into easy, efficient tasks that save time and reduce physical strain. Explore these top-rated options today and make your material handling projects easier than ever.