A stock cart is a type of handcart that is used to move goods around a warehouse, factory, or other types of industrial facilities. They’re also frequently used in commercial kitchens to move heavy loads like dishes that need to make it to the industrial dishwasher, transport heavy-duty equipment, and much more. They are typically made of stainless steel and have either two or four wheels. Stock carts come with tray shelves as well for easy access to loads that need to be delivered.
Choosing the right stock carts for your business is going to be important to help out your staff and boost business efficiency. Naturally, you’ll also want to choose stock carts based on what you’re moving, the level of clearance you need, and some basic safety features. Here are a few great tips on deciding between the right stock carts for your professional needs.
Consider the size of your business and the types of products you sell.
If you’re running a small business, you’ll want to choose stock carts that are compact and easy to move. Carts that have a smaller footprint take up less space in your warehouse, kitchen, or factory floor and are easier to navigate around tight corners. A few smaller two-shelf stock carts with durable steel construction will likely serve your needs well.
If you’re running a large business or you sell a lot of heavy or bulky items, you’ll want to find high-capacity stock carts that can handle the weight and have a lot of shelf clearance. Carts with a higher weight capacity can hold more products, which reduces the number of trips you need to make to the stockroom, and with high shelf clearance, you won’t have to worry about items falling off and becoming damaged, which is one of the most common reasons for customer returns, not to mention the safety hazards that can result from these falls.
In addition to size and weight capacity, you’ll also want to consider the features that are important to you. Some carts come with built-in shelves and dividers, which can make organizing your products a lot easier. Others come with locking wheels and brakes, which can be helpful if you need to move your stock cart around a lot or have a crowded floor where accidents can easily happen.
Consider the material of the cart itself.
There is no definitive answer when it comes to the most durable stock carts. However, some carts are definitely more durable than others. When looking for a durable cart, you’ll want to consider factors such as the material the cart is made from, the construction of the cart, and the size and weight of the cart.
Some of the most durable materials for stock carts include steel construction and plastic. Plastic is sometimes considered to be more durable than metal, depending on the work, but metal carts are often more durable if they have a powder-coat finish, which can help protect the cart from scratches and rust. When it comes to construction, carts with a welded frame are often more durable than carts with a riveted frame. Additionally, carts with a higher weight capacity are often more durable than those with a lower weight capacity.
Think about the terrain you will be using your stock cart on.
The terrain you will be using your carts on is one of the most important factors to consider, as it will determine the type of cart you need, as well as the safety features. Speaking of safety, make sure to go over safety tips and regulations for using your utility carts effectively before you start using them.
If you will be using the cart on flat, smooth surfaces, a standard pushcart will be fine for the job. If you’re planning to use the cart on uneven or rough terrain, you’ll need a cart with larger, all-terrain tires. Speaking of wheels and tires, you may want tires with extra grip if you’re working on slick surfaces, such as the floor of a professional kitchen, and it’s generally recommended to select carts with caster wheels since casters and swivels are easy to maneuver around corners and shelves.
