Folding Hand Trucks – Uses, Indications, Benefits

Folding Hand Trucks/A hand truck, also known as a two-wheelerstack trucktrundlerbox cartsack barrowcartdollysack truck, or bag barrow, is an L-shaped box-moving handcart with handles at one end, wheels at the base, with a small ledge to set objects on, flat against the floor when the hand-truck is upright. The objects to be moved are tilted forward, the ledge is inserted underneath them, and the objects allowed to tilt back and rest on the ledge. The truck and object are then tilted backward until the weight is balanced over the large wheels, making otherwise bulky and heavy objects easier to move. It is a first-class lever

If you have never had to carry heavy luggage at some point in your life, you might never know how vital hand trucks are. I once had this awful experience that had me looking for the best hand truck immediately. Last summer, I was planning to go on a vacation with my whole family, and the packing process was one heck of a task. Unfortunately, the packing wasn’t anything compared to what we had to go through carrying the heavy boxes and bags to my Range Rover Evoque Convertible.

The whole process proved to be a back-breaking task, and I immediately had to look for a hand truck directly. The entire process of looking for a hand truck wasn’t easy. I was spoilt for choice as I perused through the available options with limited time. Then, I came across cheap and expensive, so-so and show-off as well as sturdy and flimsy hand trucks.

After spending a considerable amount of time sifting through the available option, I picked the Cosco shifter multi-position hand truck. Okay, this was on the basis of personal preferences. I must admit that there were other exceptional items which I have compiled in this review to make the selection process easier for you.


List Of Best Hand Trucks/Stack Truck

Harper Trucks 700 Lb Capacity Glass Filled Nylon

This is one of the items I found to have excellent strength and unique construction. The glass-filled nylon plastic construction makes it lighter than the usual steel hand trucks which are extremely heavy even before being loaded.

The frame makes it quite strong and durable. Of course, I also liked the fact that it’s pre-assembled so you won’t be performing along the assembling process. The heavy-duty 10’’ wheels and heavy-duty 5’’ swivel casters also got me thinking of picking this item instead.

As I came to learn, the glass-filled plastic is chemical, corrosion, and rust-resistant, which means you won’t be visiting the market anytime soon.

Harper Trucks 700 lb Capacity Glass Filled Nylon Convertible Hand Truck and Dolly with 10' Pneumatic Wheels , Black with yellow handle - PGDYK1635PKD
6,893 Reviews
Harper Trucks 700 lb Capacity Glass Filled Nylon Convertible Hand Truck and Dolly with 10" Pneumatic Wheels , Black with yellow handle - PGDYK1635PKD
  • Rubber tires
  • Manufactured in USA; Harper exclusive I-Beam Glass Filled Nylon Plastic Frame is 30% lighter than steel and designed for maximum strength (Plastic frame is factory Pre Assembled). Heavy-duty 10" pneumatic wheels and 5" heavy-duty swivel casters
  • Glass-Filled Nylon Plastic Frame is chemical, corrosion and rust resistant for longer life
  • Converts in seconds from 2 wheel dolly to 4 wheel cart - 600 lb dolly and 700 lb cart capacity (Product images illustrates both uses, but only one cart is being sold)
  • Three position telescoping handle, built-in stair glides for easy moving up or down stairs and curbs
  • Frame factory assembled, requires easy assembly of wheels, casters, axle and base plate.

Reasons To Buy This

  • Converts within seconds – This one converts from 4 wheel cart to 2 wheel dolly and vice-versa within seconds.
  • Requires zero assembling – As earlier pointed out, this item requires no assembling since it comes pre-assembled.
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Milwaukee Hand Trucks 49180 Convertible Truck

I heard about this hand truck from a friend of mine who had recommended it after I called to ask for suggestions. Although I didn’t pick it for personal reasons, I had to include it in this review.

Of course, it easily converts from a two-wheeled dolly to a four-wheel cart. It’s 10’’ pneumatic tires help in the cushioning of the heavy load against the roughest and toughest terrain thus offering adequate safety for the luggage.

I also found the maximum load capacity of 800 lbs quite impressive. And yes, with wheel guards to separate the load from the tires, you can never go wrong with this product.

Milwaukee Hand Trucks 49180 Convertible Truck with 10-Inch Pneumatic Tires
129 Reviews
Milwaukee Hand Trucks 49180 Convertible Truck with 10-Inch Pneumatic Tires
  • Easily Converts from 2 wheel vertical truck to 4 wheel platform position
  • 10-Inch pneumatic tires help cushion the load over rough terrain
  • 800-Pound load capacity
  • Wheel guards protect the load from the tires
  • Larger 5-Inch casters

Reasons To Buy This

  • Comes with 5 large canisters – The large canisters can hold a large load, thus saving the amount of time taken to move items.
  • Easily converts – This one easily converts from 2 to 4-wheeled cart for effective movement.

Wesco 220649 Steel Maxi Mover Lightweight Folding Truck

Although I found the maximum load capacity of 275 lbs way too low, I must admit that this hand truck is worth a purchase. It’s ideal for people who want to move smaller packages from one point to another.

The steel construction offers ultimate strength and durability, thus ensuring that you don’t frequent the market looking for replacements after every few days. I also found the folding design quite impressive since it offers easy portability and storage. If you want to carry it on the back of your car for off-loading after arriving, then you can trust it.

Wesco 220649 Steel Maxi Mover Lightweight Folding Truck, 275-lb. Load Capacity, 42' Height, 19' Depth x 19' Width
303 Reviews
Wesco 220649 Steel Maxi Mover Lightweight Folding Truck, 275-lb. Load Capacity, 42" Height, 19" Depth x 19" Width
  • Portable aluminum folding hand truck for transporting heavy loads in a variety of settings
  • 275-lb. capacity
  • Steel construction for strength and durability
  • Built-in elastic straps for securing the load
  • Measures 19" x 19" x 42" overall when open, 19" x 2" x 29.5" when folded

Reasons To Buy This

  • Boasts 7’’ rubber wheels – The 7’’ wheels cushion the loads from rough terrain thus keeping the load safe and secure.
  • Foldable for easy storage – For portability and convenient storage, this hand truck folds conveniently.

Vergo S300BT Model Industrial Folding Hand Truck Dolly

With a telescoping handle, I found this one quite impressive. The telescoping hand stretches up to 42.5 inches and also contracts to a smaller length if so desired.

The folding nose plate is also another thing I found impressive about this hand truck. The folding nose plate opens in second, thus saving your time.

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The nesting wheels move into place automatically move into place when the nose plate is unfolding or folding for ultimate convenience. It also features solid rubber wheels offering ultimate stability and comfort.

Vergo Industrial 275 lb Capacity Folding Hand Truck Dolly Cart with Telescoping Handle, Aluminum Foldable Cart with Wheels (S300BT)
  • NO ASSEMBLY REQUIRED - Fully assembled and ready to use upon delivery. Simply unfold the nose plate and use the red release button to extend the handle.
  • LIGHTWEIGHT – Weighing in at just 10 pounds, the hand truck is perfect for home, work or office.
  • COLLAPSIBLE & COMPACT – Equipped with a folding nose plate and nesting wheels, the hand truck folds away flat. Saves space and opens back up in seconds. The telescoping handle extends out to a height of 42.5" and locks into place.
  • CONVENIENT & ERGONOMIC - Transport boxes, packages, and loads up to 275 lbs. with this collapsible hand truck. Foam padded handle provides a comfortable grip. Includes two bungee cords to further secure boxes and packages.
  • HEAVY DUTY - Made from a strong aluminum, the folding hand truck comes with 7" solid rubber wheels for maximum stability while in use. Handles up to 275 lbs.

Reasons To Buy This

  • Folds completely for easy storage – For storage and convenient portability, this hand truck folds completely.
  • Requires little assembling – With little or no assembling, this is an ideal hand truck for everyday use.

Cosco 3-In-1 Aluminum Hand Truck/Assisted Hand Truck

Choosing between this Cosco model and the Cosco shifter was quite hard for me. The ergonomic wheels which significantly reduce the chances of accidents and reduce the impact on the load made me rethink my selection.

And yes, it comes with a single hand conversion which makes it quite easy to operate and convenient for quick use. Sufficiently versatile and easy to maneuver, you can never go wrong with this hand truck.

Amazon Best Seller
Cosco 3-in-1 Aluminum Hand Truck/Assisted Hand Truck/Cart w/ flat free wheels
  • Ergonomic which reduces the chance of injury, fatigue and muscle strain
  • Easy to move with heavy-duty flat free wheels
  • Easy to use with quick one-hand conversion
  • Versatile and easy to maneuver
  • 1000 pound Capacity, Product Measurements: Height: 33.25", Width: 46.88", Depth: 19.75"

Reasons To Buy This

  • Comes with heavy-duty wheels – The wheels offer ultimate convenience and quick operations.
  • Boasts an ergonomic construction – With an ergonomic construction, chances of accidents and injuries are greatly reduced.

Magna Cart Ideal 150 Lb Capacity Steel Folding Hand Truck

When I came across this Magna hand truck, I was skeptical at first until I tried it out. That’s when I learned not to judge a book by its cover. It’s a foldable hand truck that is ideal for moving luggage, boxes, and other items from one place to another. Its rugged steel frame makes it quite sturdy while the 150 pounds holding capacity is quite appealing. I couldn’t say that the maximum load capacity is ideal for me. In fact, the only reason why I didn’t pick this one is that our loads were extremely heavy. Also, I wanted something that could carry heavyweights of over 300 lbs. Otherwise, if you want to carry lightboxes and smaller luggage, this is an ideal hand truck for you.

Amazon Best Seller
WORX WX051 Pegasus Folding Work Table & Sawhorse
  • [WORKTABLE & SAWHORSE] Holds up to 300 lbs. as a work table, supports 1,000 lbs. as a sawhorse. And it’s easy to transition between the two
  • [CUSTOM CLAMPS] Two quick clamps are integrated and stay attached even when you fold the table into a sawhorse. Because they’re designed specifically for the Pegasus, they’ll be stronger and last longer
  • [LIGHT AND STURDY] It’s only 25 lbs., and its foldable design makes it easy to move and store
  • [CONNECT MULTIPLE TABLES] Create a whole work counter when you link 3 or more Pegasus’ together. Whether your worksite or workshop is spacious or tight, this building solution expands or contracts to fit your needs
  • [DO IT YOURSELF. DO IT BETTER. DO IT WITH WORX.] WORX tools are engineered with cutting-edge technology, and above modern efficiency standards, so you can build a cost-effective tool collection that’s been designed to last
  • [STORAGE SHELF] On the bottom of the work Pegasus we’ve made a place to hold a power strip or supplies. Perfect extra shelf or storage for your workspace
  • [BUILT TO LAST] Made out of a dependable, molded ABS with steel supports and fittings. This table will be with you for the long haul
  • Easily converts from a work table to a saw horse in seconds

Reasons To Buy This

  • Comes with a retractable wheel frame – The retractable wheel frame prevents the load from getting to the wheels.
  • Opens instantly – With a single touch of a button, this hand truck opens for easy and quick operation.
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Magna Cart Personal 150 Lb Capacity Aluminum Folding Hand Truck

I also found this Magna hand truck quite appealing. Just like its earlier sibling, it features an aluminum folding design which makes it quite amazing. I was personally thrilled by its telescoping handle which extends up to 39’’.

The large and broad base of 15’’ and rubber wheels of 5’’ make this one quite reliable. There’s no air required for the wheels which means that you won’t be dealing with flat tires.

The maximum load capacity of 150 lbs is convenient enough for you to carry heavy loads that don’t exceed this weight. Given its compact design, it can fold up to a thickness of 2.5 inches, making it quite portable.

Amazon Best Seller
Magna Cart Personal 150 lb Capacity Aluminum Folding Hand Truck (Black/Red), 1 Pack
7,482 Reviews
Magna Cart Personal 150 lb Capacity Aluminum Folding Hand Truck (Black/Red), 1 Pack
  • Magna Cart is the original and world's best selling aluminum folding hand truck!
  • Telescoping handle extends to 39" inches. Large 15" wide aluminum base and 5" rubber wheels (no air required) easily transports up to 150 lbs of cargo
  • Compact, folds flat to only 2.5" thick for easy storage and transportation. Opens and closes in seconds--no assembly required
  • Ideal for home, auto, office, travel and recreational use. Works well with Magna Cart MT3 Collapsible Storage Totes
  • Ships in Certified Frustration-Free Packaging

Reasons To Buy This

  • Quite versatile: This is an ideal hand truck for home, office, auto or recreational purposes which collapses for easy transportation.
  • Quite ergonomic: Given its convenient construction, this item is quite ergonomic and can be used for various activities.

VEVOR Folding Hand Truck 3 In 1 Convertible Hand Truck

Vevor folding hand truck opens up the top three positions taking us closer to my top pick and my current companion. What made this item impressively and outstanding?

Well, I was impressed by the maximum load capacity of 550 lbs when switched to a 2 wheel cart and a maximum weight of 770 lbs when switched to a 4 wheeled cart. I also found the convertible design which works in seconds extremely adorable.

I mean, being able to switch from one form to another in seconds without having to deal with mechanical faults is quite amazing. And yes, I couldn’t help noticing the convertible aluminum construction made is extremely sturdy and durable.

Reasons To Buy This

  • Comes with ergonomic design – The ergonomic design prevents injuries and accidents.
  • Quite versatile – This is a versatile hand truck that can be used in various places.

Magline GMK81UA4 Gemini Sr Convertible Hand Truck

Magline two in one is another hand truck on the market whose performance is super-impressive. It converts in seconds, thus saving you the hassle of having to spend hours trying to change it from one state to the other.

Its large capacity reduces the number of trips you make going back and forth while loading or off-loading. And yes, I also found the durable and lightweight construction quite reliable. Of course, I hate those heavy ones which cause fatigue.

Amazon Best Seller
Magliner GMK81UA4 Gemini Sr Convertible Hand Truck, Pneumatic Wheels, 500 lbs Load Capacity, 61" Height, 55-3/4" Length x 21" Width , Silver
  • 2 in 1 truck converts from 2 to 4 wheels in seconds
  • Dimensions - Overall width: 21" | Frame width: 12" | Deck width 12" | Overall length (4 wheel): 55 - 3/4" | Height (as hand truck): 61" | Height (as platform truck): 45 - 1/8" | Platform bed length: 51" | Platform height from floor: 10 - 1/2" | Nose: 18" x 7 - 1/2"
  • Maximum Weight - Capacity (as hand truck): 500 lbs | Capacity (as platform truck): 1000 lbs
  • High capacities reduce number of trips per day, increasing productivity
  • Strong, lightweight construction reduces user fatigue
  • Modular design means no welds to break, all parts are replaceable for longer product life
  • Lowers driver fatigue by reducing muscle strain.Toe Plate Depth: 7.5 inch

Reasons To Buy This

  • Compact and lightweight – The lightweight, compact design makes transportation and storage a breeze.
  • Boasts impressive capacities – This saves the time you’d have taken moving the loads from one point to another since you move large loads at a time.

Cosco Shifter Multi-Position Heavy Duty Folding Hand Truck And Dolly

Finally, here comes the one I am currently using. This Cosmos shifter multi-position comes in a convenient design, which makes it quite reliable. The heavy-duty and durable steel frame which can hold a maximum load of like 300lbs makes this item worth a purchase.

And yes, speaking out of an experience, I find the quick conversion feature quite impressive, I mean, I convert from 2 wheels to 4 wheeled in seconds which is extremely superb.

Amazon Best Seller
Cosco 12222PBG1E Shifter 300-Pound Capacity Multi-Position Heavy Duty Folding Dolly, Green hand-trucks
17,715 Reviews
Cosco 12222PBG1E Shifter 300-Pound Capacity Multi-Position Heavy Duty Folding Dolly, Green hand-trucks
  • Heavy Duty - Durable Steel Frame with 300 lbs. Weight Capacity
  • Easy to Use - Quick Conversion with no pins or tools
  • Multi-Position - Use as a 2-Wheel, Upright Hand Truck or into a 4-wheel Cart, EASY STORAGE - Folds Flat for Transport/Storage
  • Folds Flat for Transport/Storage. Product Measurements : Height is 49.25 inches ,Width is 16.625 inches and Depth is 13.75 inches
  • Fits in most size car trunks. Weight : 14.92 pounds

Reasons To Buy This

  • Folds for easy storage – The folding design makes this one portable and convenient for storage.
  • Fits in my numerous cars’ trunks – I exchange cars quite often because it’s more of a car business to me than ownership. Whenever I change a car for a new model, this hand truck still fits into the trunk.

Benefits Of Hand Trucks

  • Make movement easier – When shifting from one place to another or moving items in business from one department to another, hand trucks come in handy.
  • Convertible for convenience – The convertible design from 2 wheeled to 4 wheeled makes them convenient for the movement of load nearing different weights.
  • Collapse for easy storage – Most hand trucks fold for convenient storage and easier movement from one place to another.

Conclusion

Ever since I started using the Cosmos hand truck, I haven’t tried carrying heavy loads on my shoulder. I am a fitness freak, so I don’t mind carrying a single load over my shoulders. But when it comes to moving many boxes, it would take an eternity to move them. That’s why I suggest you get one of these hand trucks and make your move quickly.

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