Utility Carts Key Terms

Understand key terms about utility carts

If you're looking for a utility cart, there's a wide selection of choices. Utility carts are available in many different load capacities and designs. They are often specialized for particular environments like health care and industrial. Getting to know some of the key terminology used in describing utility carts can help you narrow the selection and make the right choice.

 

Platform cart

Most utility carts have one or two trays on the top and a handle to push them. Platform carts differ in design. They have handles and a low platforms that make it easy to move loads. Platform trucks are useful for transporting long, bulky items.
Try: Check out Hand Trucks R Us to get an overview of platform carts. They carry platform carts in several different designs and construction materials.

NSF Certification

Some utility carts that are used in health care or food service applications are labeled "NSF Certified." This means they meet national standards for food handling because of their ability to be easily cleaned and resist germs and bacteria.
Try: Find out more about NSF International and its policies and standards. NSF focuses on food, water, indoor air and the environment.

Plastic

Many utility carts are made from plastics -- particularly Polypropylene, Polyurethanes, and Polystyrene. The various types of plastics have different properties, including load capability.
Try: PlasticsIndustry provides properties and information about the many types of plastics.

Stainless steel

Some utility carts are made of stainless steel. They can be used in almost any environment, including offices, health care facilities and food service. Stainless steel carts are usually lightweight and easy to clean. Since they resist stains, they are a good choice for transporting food and other materials.
Try: Fante's Kitchen Wares Shop gives a thorough definition of stainless steel, including its safety features and other benefits.

Casters

Casters are the wheels on the bottom of a utility cart and an important component. They help to determine how much weight the cart can easily transport. Many utility carts can be retrofitted with stronger or larger casters.
Try: Durastar Casters and Wheels gives advice for choosing the right caster and information on using and troubleshooting caster performance. 

Utility cart accessories

Some utility cart accessories include non-skid mats, safety straps and electrical assemblies. A cart can be customized with accessories.
Try: DR Instruments carries a wide selection of utility cart accessories.  Browse their listings to get an idea of some of the accessories that are available for utility carts.

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