Trolleys

Choosing the Perfect Trolley: A Guide to Streamlining Your Workflow

In the fast-paced world of material handling, efficiency reigns supreme. While automation and robotics grab headlines, a simpler and much more cost-effective solution often proves best—the humble trolley. But with a vast array of options available, selecting the right one for your needs can feel overwhelming. This guide will help equip you to choose the perfect trolley and unlock a world of optimised workflows.

The Right Foundation: Castors and Wheels

The unsung heroes of any trolley are its castors and wheels. Their selection significantly impacts manoeuvrability, load capacity, and overall efficiency. Here’s a breakdown of key considerations:

• Swivel Castors: Offering 360-degree mobility, these are ideal for tight spaces and frequent direction changes. However, consider adding brakes for stability when stationary.

• Directional Lock Castors: These provide both manoeuvrability and directional control, perfect for navigating long corridors or uneven surfaces. As the name suggests, they lock the direction the trolley can travel in when in the locked position. When unlocked, they revert back to a swivel castor to allow the best manoeuvrability for your trolley.

• Fixed Wheels: Paired with swivelling castors, these offer superior stability and easier handling of heavy loads. They can be positioned at either end of the trolley or you can have swivel castors at each end and a pair of fixed wheels in the centre. This will allow for better manoeuvrability for your trolley.

• Wheel Size & Material Type: There are many different types of material types that the wheels are made from. For example, trolleys going into an oven will need to be heat proof and extremely heavy-duty trolleys will need a cast iron wheel. Likewise, in a hospital or lab situation, a non-marking anti-static wheel is important for these trolleys. The size of the wheel on the trolley is also an important consideration. If your trolley is only moving around a single room then small wheels a fine, but if you’re moving it between rooms or buildings then a larger wheel is better to help it travel over door thresholds or other bumps along the way.

Material Matters: Choosing the Right Build

The material your trolley is constructed from will influence its durability, weight, and cleanability. Here’s a breakdown of popular options:

• Mild Steel: The champion of affordability and durability, mild steel trolleys can withstand heavy loads and are easily repairable. However, they are heavier and susceptible to rust if not properly maintained.

• Aluminium: Lightweight and corrosion-resistant, aluminium trolleys are ideal for frequent transport and clean environments. However, they may not be suitable for heavy-duty applications.

• Stainless Steel: The gold standard for hygiene, stainless steel is perfect for medical facilities, laboratories, and food service industries. It’s easy to clean, corrosion-resistant, and offers a sleek aesthetic, but comes at a premium price.

• Plastic: A cost-effective choice, plastic trolleys are lightweight and surprisingly robust. However, they may not be suitable for heavy loads or harsh environments.

The Power of Customisation

Sometimes, off-the-shelf solutions simply won’t suffice. This is where custom trolleys shine. With our custom manufacturing, you can create a trolley perfectly tailored to your specific needs. Whether it’s a unique load size, integration with existing equipment, or adherence to strict hygiene regulations, a custom trolley optimises your workflow and maximises efficiency.

Find Your Perfect Match

By considering factors like castor type, material selection, and the potential benefits of customization, you’re well on your way to selecting the perfect trolley. Material Handling Solutions (MHS) doesn’t just sell trolleys; we provide solutions. Our team of experts will work alongside you to understand your unique requirements and recommend the ideal trolley to streamline your operations.

Stop wasting time and energy on inefficient material handling. Invest in a trolley that will last for years to come. Contact one of our MHS experts today for a free consultation!