Hand Truck Selection Chart
By Grainger Editorial Staff 11/11/20
Hand trucks enable one person to safely move heavy objects such as boxes, equipment and appliances. They are often made up of a steel or aluminum frame, a nose plate that slides under an object, and two or more wheels.
Types of Hand Trucks
The right type of hand truck to use depends on the load being moved. While basic hand trucks can move boxes, bins and crates, specialized hand trucks may be needed for furniture, appliances and unusually shaped items.
| Hand Truck Type | Description | Load Type |
|---|---|---|
|
Features two wheels with a vertical frame to support the load while in motion and a nose plate that slides under the load. As the hand truck is tilted back, it can then wheel the load from one place to another. |
Boxes, crates, bins, equipment and raw materials |
|
|
Features two wheels and a vertical frame for support when tilted back and a nose plate that slides under the load when in the hand truck configuration. When converted to a platform truck, there are four wheels and a platform with a large surface area to move heavier loads. May also be called a multiposition hand truck. |
Boxes, crates, bins, equipment and raw materials |
|
|
Folds down to fit in vehicles and small spaces like closets when not in use. Features a vertical frame to support the load when tilted back on its wheels and a nose plate that slides under the load. May also be called a dolly, hand trolley or stack truck. |
Boxes, crates, bins, equipment, luggage and similar items |
|
|
Features two or four wheels to handle heavier loads than standard hand trucks. Various configurations are available to securely move furniture and other office equipment. |
Chairs, desks, tables, file cabinets and other furniture |
|
|
Features two or four wheels to handle heavier loads than standard hand trucks. A wide, tall frame and a short, wide nose plate help move large, heavy appliances. Some have stair climbers for ease of going up stairs or curbs and belts for securing loads. |
Vending machines, refrigerators, water heaters and other large appliances. |
|
|
Supportive frames that tilt back on two or four wheels to accommodate specific sizes and quantities of cylinders. Some include a strap, chain or clamp to hold the tank securely during movement and prevent dangerous falls. |
Buckets, pails, drums, barrels and other large, round containers |
|
|
Supportive frames that tilt back on two or four wheels to accommodate specific sizes and quantities of cylinders. Some include a strap, chain or clamp to hold the tank securely during movement and prevent dangerous falls. |
Gas cylinders |
|
|
Lightweight aluminum frames that tilt back on two wheels to move large water bottles and beverage cases. Some have stair climbers for ease of going up stairs or curbs. |
Beverage cases, 5-gallon water bottles and other large beverage containers |
The information contained in this article is intended for general information purposes only and is based on information available as of the initial date of publication. No representation is made that the information or references are complete or remain current. This article is not a substitute for review of current applicable government regulations, industry standards, or other standards specific to your business and/or activities and should not be construed as legal advice or opinion. Readers with specific questions should refer to the applicable standards or consult with an attorney.
CONNECT WITH US
SIGN UP FOR EMAIL
Get more great content in your inbox.