How to Select Heavy-Duty Utility Carts for Handling Material
Heavy duty utility carts are a must have in almost every industry. Whether it is transporting scientific instruments in the laboratory, moving products in a warehouse or hauling agricultural implements on a farm, mobile carts are essential. Some can even be loaded on trucks for long distance transportation.
Industrial carts are built with different materials to suit specific industries and use cases. Mobile carts made from heavy-duty plastic are easy to clean and transport as they don’t weigh much. A business may use such carts to carry stationary supplies in an office. At the other end of the scale are carts made of stainless steel that is durable and strong. These are widely used in warehouses and on shop floors to haul heavy equipment.
How to Choose the Right Utility Cart
Selecting the right utility cart is a matter of finding one that fits the requirements of the task and the relevant working conditions. A cart that is suitable for outdoor work may not necessarily be appropriate for an office environment. Heavy-duty carts can make too much noise for use in a server room but may be perfect for a farm.
Consider the following factors when choosing utility carts:
Carrying Capacity
The carrying capacity of a cart is a crucial factor to consider. It can be tempting to purchase the biggest cart to carry the heaviest loads but it also increases the cost. Bigger carts are difficult to maneuver and hard to control even when carrying no loads. Small carts are inexpensive but may buckle under heavy loads, leading to injuries or even worse.
Most manufacturers will list the carrying capacity of their carts in terms of both volume and weight. Some carts are designed to handle heavy loads of small sizes while others can accommodate bulky but lightweight packages. However, make sure to check the measurements before buying one as some companies use different methods for calculating those numbers.
The carrying capacity of any cart depends on the material used in construction, the design of the frame, type of fastening and even the gauge of steel (it is popular for its durability). Quite a few vendors will make custom carts for clients if the standard models are unsuitable.
Number and Size of Shelves
If the cart will be used to transport a large number of packages, the number of shelves matters. Industrial carts come in a variety of shelf configurations, ranging from large single shelves to multiple small ones. For moving heavy equipment, check the load bearing capacity of each shelf along with the cart itself.
Type of Surface and Wheels
Practically every industrial cart has wheels or tires. Safety brakes are essential if the cart will be used on inclined surfaces or ramps. Larger wheels can distribute the weight more evenly but they can reduce maneuverability.
Will the cart be used indoors over carpet or tile? Will it carry equipment outdoors over rough and uneven surfaces? Indoor carts can manage with smaller wheels. Carts that will be used outdoors on gravel may require bigger wheels for additional stability.
Ergonomic Safety Features
Not all carts are designed with safety and economics in mind. If the cart will be used for extended periods of time by employees, selecting one with ergonomic features is essential. A lack of ergonomic design can result in injury or pain.
There are a wide variety of different types of utility carts available on the market. If a company needs one that is not widely available, custom carts can be ordered to suit specifications. Heavy duty utility carts will last for years with proper maintenance and handling. Purchasing the right model is an investment that will pay off over the long term.