The platform trolley is the most widely used cart in warehouses and factories, moving boxes, sacks, raw materials and parts. It looks simple, but a poor choice pushes hard, sags and wears out quickly.
What to Choose
- Deck size: big enough that goods don't overhang, but not so big that it can't turn in your aisles
- Deck material: chequer plate for heavy duty, smooth plate for goods that slide on and off, or timber/matting for goods that mark easily
- Handle: fixed, folding for compact storage, or handles at both ends
- Edge lips: for round items or goods that slide easily
The Frame Under the Deck Matters Most
A deck sags without enough support. Wide decks or heavy loads need several cross members under the deck and pad plates where the casters mount. See the principles in how to design a factory trolley.
Choose Wheels for Easy Pushing
- Calculate load per wheel by dividing the total weight by 3
- For straight runs along long aisles, use 2 rigid + 2 brake casters
- For frequent turns in tight spaces, use 2 swivel + 2 brake casters
- For floors with gaps or long distances, choose 6-inch wheels
When to go custom: if your goods are an unusual size, heavier than standard trolleys can carry, need a specific deck height, or the trolley is used hard every day, building to your real dimensions works better and lasts longer.
Summary
A good platform trolley fits the goods, has a strong under-deck frame and uses wheels that genuinely carry the load. If standard models don't fit your work, we can build one to size.