Overview
Housing and Hospitality Staff move heavy items regularly with the use of carts. The carts are pushed or pulled up and down hills, too and from dorms and between dining establishments. Having the right kind of cart and using a motorized tug to push them can make the task much easier and reduce the likelihood of injuries. A proper cart allows for easy maneuvering and accommodate various types of loads. The entire process and use of a motorized tug needs to be well thought out but if used correctly it can significantly reduce the likelihood of injuries.
Decision-makers should review the following considerations.
- Space: Area(s) where the cart or tug will be used. Is the cart/tug the right size for the job and will there be obstacles to navigate? Are there doorways and if so are they large enough to accommodate the unit?
- Surfaces: Type of surface(s) the cart/tug will be used on. Will it be used inside or outside? Will you need to navigate bumpy areas or various types of transitions?
- Users: The physical characteristics of the worker. Can the cart/tug be used by different height users?
- Storage: The cart/tug will need to be stored somewhere. Is there storage space in an existing custodial closet or storage area? Are the doorways to the storage area large enough to accommodate the unit?
- Portability: Ease by which a user can get the equipment to the job site. Is there elevator access? Can the elevator accommodate the weight of the tug or filled cart?
- Maintenance: What type of regular maintenance is needed? Is a special tool needed for regular field maintenance?
- Testing and Feedback: Demo the product. What was the users’ feedback on the unit after trying in the work environment?
Recommended Carts
Mfr. & Model |
Heavy-Duty
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Vinyl Basket
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Vinyl Basket
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Criteria Rating |
★★★★★ |
★★★★☆ |
★★★★☆ |
Photo |
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 |
 |
Review |
High capacity. Accommodates wet and dry loads. Crack, dent, and corrosion-resistant high-density polyethylene construction. Easy access side cut-outs with removable vinyl flaps. This unit will fit through a standard 32" doorway. |
Medium capacity. Accommodates wet and dry loads. Well built and durable. Soft vinyl sides are flexible and can accommodate a variety of odd-shaped items. Required accessory: internal spring-loaded lift helps to raise and lower loads for easier material handling. This unit will fit through a standard 32" doorway. |
Large capacity. Accommodates wet and dry loads. Well built and durable. Soft vinyl sides are flexible and can accommodate a variety of odd-shaped items. Required accessory: internal spring-loaded lift helps to raise and lower loads for easier material handling. This unit will fit through a standard 32" doorway. |
UC Supplier |
Uline | Uline | Uline |
Specs |
Weight: 72 lbs Capacity: 1200lb (23 Cubic Ft) Wheels: Two 5" swivel casters, two 5” rigid casters Overall Dimensions: L 48” x W 32” x H 38" Inside Dimensions: N/A Ease of access: Side cut-out Motorized tug adapter ♠ Durable construction ♠ |
Weight: 41 lbs Capacity: 600lb (22 Cubic Ft) Wheels: Four 4” swivel casters Overall Dimensions: L 42” x W 30” x H 37" Inside Dimensions: L 38” x W 26” x H 30" Ease of access: Spring-loaded lift Motorized tug adapter: No Durable construction ♠ |
Weight: 42 lbs Capacity: 600lb (25 Cubic Ft) Wheels: Four 4” swivel casters Overall Dimensions: L 48” x W 32” x H 37" Inside Dimensions: L 45” x W 27” x H 30" Ease of access: Spring-loaded lift Motorized tug adapter: No Durable construction ♠ |
Resources |
Heavy-Duty Poly Box Truck | Vinyl Basket H-2647BLU Website Spring Lift H-3514 Website |
Recommended Tugs
Mfr. & Model |
DJ Products
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Criteria Rating |
★★★★☆ |
Photo |
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Review |
Exceptional push/pull capability Multiple configurations of unit is possible to accommodate various sized loads and applications. |
UC Supplier |
DJ Products |
Specs |
Push/Pulls up to 3000 lbs 0-3 MPH Forward/Reverse Variable speed twist grip Battery Life: 16 hrs Battery Gauge Automatic charger Quick connect to most carts Capable of pivoting 180 degrees (allows for turning loads at 90 degrees) 30”x 26” (L x W without 5th Wheel arm) Optional Spring Hitch for coupling ♠ Optional Customizable attachments ♠ |
Resources |
Products are rated on a 5-star scale based on the Criteria Rating - ★
The product specification exceeds minimum UC Criteria - ♠
The product does not meet minimum UC Criteria - ⚠
