Also known as dollies, hand trucks are one of the most valuable pieces of material handling equipment that allow for safe and efficient handling in a wide range of industries, from small convenience stores to large warehouses. These simple machines allow you to carry odd-shaped containers and boxes from one place to another, without putting a strain on your workers, which results in improved overall work efficiency, reduction of workplace-related health problems and ultimately, increased employee satisfaction.
However, before you go out and buy a couple of hand trucks for your business, you need to know that they come in a wide array of designs and can be made from a range of materials. There are small models made of aluminium and durable plastic, which are meant for more light-duty use, but there are also heavy-duty steel models that are used in commercial and industrial applications. These industrial models are oftentimes reinforced with double welds and feature added support in the areas where they're put under the most pressure.
Aluminium trucks aren't as heavy as their stainless steel counterparts, but they're still strong enough to carry heavy loads. Sometimes, they're bonded with other metals to make them even stronger, and due to the fact that they aren't as expensive as stainless steel models, they're ideal for small and medium businesses. There are also models made of fiberglass and very-light nylon used in offices and residencies.
As far as designs go, you'll come across convertible, upright and specialty models. Upright trucks are suitable for lighter loads, usually less than 250kg. Although, you'll come across some heavy-duty upright models that can move much more. Convertible trucks, on the other hand, have four instead of two wheels, and they're quite versatile so you can use them like a cart or an upright truck. These are designed to carry heavier loads, and are the most common type found in warehouses. Specialty trucks are made to carry specific items like furniture, bags, machinery or crates.
Lastly, you have to select the right loading capacity for the sake of safety. A lot of people neglect the load capacity of hand trucks, and they end up breaking or tipping over and damaging thousands of dollars worth of inventory and potentially injuring people, which you want to avoid. Every hand truck has a load capacity listed on it for a reason. Avoid injuries by paying attention and abiding by the load capacity limits.
Aluminium trucks aren't as heavy as their stainless steel counterparts, but they're still strong enough to carry heavy loads. Sometimes, they're bonded with other metals to make them even stronger, and due to the fact that they aren't as expensive as stainless steel models, they're ideal for small and medium businesses. There are also models made of fiberglass and very-light nylon used in offices and residencies.
As far as designs go, you'll come across convertible, upright and specialty models. Upright trucks are suitable for lighter loads, usually less than 250kg. Although, you'll come across some heavy-duty upright models that can move much more. Convertible trucks, on the other hand, have four instead of two wheels, and they're quite versatile so you can use them like a cart or an upright truck. These are designed to carry heavier loads, and are the most common type found in warehouses. Specialty trucks are made to carry specific items like furniture, bags, machinery or crates.
Lastly, you have to select the right loading capacity for the sake of safety. A lot of people neglect the load capacity of hand trucks, and they end up breaking or tipping over and damaging thousands of dollars worth of inventory and potentially injuring people, which you want to avoid. Every hand truck has a load capacity listed on it for a reason. Avoid injuries by paying attention and abiding by the load capacity limits.