Why Trolleys Are Essential in Material Handling
A trolley is one of the most important tools for moving goods safely and efficiently across warehouses, factories, retail stores, and even hospitals. By reducing the need for manual lifting, trolleys help prevent injuries, increase productivity, and keep workflows running smoothly. In South Africa, where industries range from retail to heavy manufacturing, trolleys are the backbone of everyday material handling.
Key Points
- Understand what a trolley is and why it’s essential for industrial and retail operations
- Learn about the main types: platform trolleys, hand/sack trolleys, dollies, drum trolleys, bin trolleys, and shopping trolleys
- Discover how to select a trolley based on load capacity, wheel type, and environment
- Explore how trolleys improve efficiency, reduce injuries, and streamline workflows
- Get answers to common questions about trolley use, maintenance, and safety
Types of Trolleys for Different Applications
Platform and Flatbed Trolleys
A platform trolley or flatbed trolley provides a stable surface for transporting bulky loads such as cartons, boxes, and equipment. Available in sizes like 900×600 mm or 1200×600 mm, these trolleys are versatile for warehouses and storerooms where heavy or awkward loads need moving.
Hand, Sack, and Coke Trolleys
A hand trolley (or sack trolley) is designed to move cases, gas cylinders, and other vertical loads. Coke trolleys are a variant used in the beverage industry. Their upright design and durable wheels make them ideal for frequent use in logistics, delivery, and back-of-house retail operations.
Dollies and Low-Profile Trolleys
Dollies are compact trolleys with four wheels and no handles, designed for moving heavy loads in tight spaces. Aluminium dollies can carry loads up to 400 kg, making them a simple but powerful solution for warehouses and workshops where space is limited.
Drum and Bin Trolleys
Drum trolleys are built to move and secure heavy drums safely, while bin trolleys are used for handling large quantities of waste or materials. Both reduce the physical strain of manual lifting and make moving heavy or awkward loads far safer.
Shopping and Retail Trolleys
In retail, shopping trolleys are essential for customer convenience. Available in various capacities, they are designed for durability, maneuverability, and branding, making them a key part of the retail experience in supermarkets and stores.
Key Factors When Choosing a Trolley
Load Capacity
Different trolleys have different load ratings, ranging from 100 kg for light-duty models to 400 kg or more for heavy-duty dollies. Always consider the combined weight of goods and handling frequency before choosing.
Wheel Types and Floor Protection
The choice of wheel is critical. Non-marking wheels protect delicate flooring in retail and healthcare settings, while heavy-duty castors handle rougher industrial surfaces. Larger wheels improve maneuverability in narrow aisles.
Environment and Application
A warehouse trolley may need a high load capacity and durability for frequent use, while a shopping trolley is designed for comfort and smooth handling. Matching the trolley to the environment ensures efficiency and safety.
How Trolleys Improve Efficiency and Safety
Reducing Manual Handling Injuries
By carrying loads that would otherwise need to be lifted manually, trolleys reduce strain on workers, lowering the risk of back injuries and accidents.
Streamlining Picking and Packing
Stock picking trolleys make order fulfilment faster and more efficient by allowing workers to move multiple items in one trip, cutting down wasted time.
Enhancing Workflow in Retail and Industry
From replenishing shelves in supermarkets to moving components in factories, the right trolley improves productivity and ensures goods move where they need to be without disruption.
Conclusion
Whether you need a platform trolley for warehouses, a hand trolley for deliveries, or a shopping trolley for retail, the right solution depends on your load, environment, and workflow. By considering factors like load capacity, wheel type, and application, businesses can invest in trolleys that reduce injuries, improve efficiency, and streamline operations. Dreymar Industrial supplies a full range of trolleys in South Africa, built for both industrial and commercial needs, with nationwide and SADC export support.
Trolley FAQs
- What is the load capacity of an average platform trolley?
Most platform trolleys carry between 150 kg and 300 kg, with heavy-duty models handling even more. - Can dollies replace flatbed trolleys?
Dollies are excellent for moving heavy loads in tight spaces, but they lack handles, making them less versatile than flatbed trolleys for everyday use. - Why are non-marking wheels important for trolleys?
Non-marking wheels protect delicate floors, reduce noise, and are preferred in hospitals, supermarkets, and clean industrial environments. - What makes a drum trolley different from a bin trolley?
A drum trolley is designed to cradle cylindrical loads like chemical drums securely, while a bin trolley is intended for moving bulky containers of waste or materials. - Are shopping trolleys available in different sizes?
Yes. Shopping trolleys are produced in multiple capacities, from compact baskets on wheels to large-volume trolleys, allowing retailers to match them to store size and customer needs.