The cross-flow model is used for the description of non-ideal behaviour of the liquid flow in a bench scale hydrotreater. Experimental data were received at reaction conditions using non-porous particles of various sizes. Total and static holdup and film thickness are correlated with liquid velocity and particle size. Mass transfer characteristic parameters are also correlated with liquid flow, particle size and bed porosity. System response simulation to stepwise feed tracer concentration change and best fit to experimental data yield the values of model parameters.