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Handling dollies : Essential criteria for making the right choice

Choosing the right handlingdollies can be a complex task, due to the variety of models available, each designed to meet specific needs. Whether it's for moving massive loads or maneuvering up and down stairs, the right choice of dollies can significantly reduce physical effort and drudgery for the operator. We invite you to discover below the essential criteria for making the right choice when it comes to handling dollies .

Maximum load capacity

In preparation for transportation, it is strongly recommended that you carry out a thorough assessment of your inventory. This process is necessary to accurately determine the load capacity required for your handlers. As the mass of items to be moved increases, it becomes imperative to choose a material handling trolley with an adequate load capacity. This will ensure safe handling, eliminating any risk of overloading.

Integrating this preliminary step is essential to maintain the safety of your transport operations, while optimizing the efficiency of the process. Therefore, it's essential to carefully examine your inventory before selecting the right handling equipment.

Wheel varieties

The choice of wheels for your dollies depends closely on the environment in which your operators will be transporting loads, as well as the frequency with which they will be using their handling dollies . The main options to consider are :

  • Rubber wheels: ideal for frequent use on smooth, flat surfaces.
  • Pneumatic wheels: designed to withstand intensive use on uneven ground, they are particularly suitable for outdoor use.
  • Puncture-proof wheels: designed for intensive use on all types of ground.
  • Star wheels: specially designed for handling on stairs and sidewalks.
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The right choice of wheels will have a significant impact on the manoeuvrability of your handling dollies .

Wheel varieties

Handle selection

Careful selection of handles can considerably improve load handling, while preserving worker safety. Curved handles are a suitable option for basic use, offering an easy grip. For enhanced safety, we strongly recommend anti-crush handles for intensive use of industrial trucks.

They also protect the operator's hands during maneuvers, minimizing the risk of accidents. Careful selection of appropriate handles can thus contribute to safe and efficient load handling.

Type of file

The type of backrest on your transport dollies depends closely on the nature of the loads to be handled. If your task involves moving flat, regular objects, we recommend you opt for a straight backrest. This provides an adequate support surface.

On the other hand, if your operations require the handling of cylindrical or irregular loads, a curved backrest is essential. This ensures greater safety by holding objects in place and preventing them from tipping over during transport. Choosing the right type of backrest for your needs is essential to ensure the stability of your loads as they travel.

Building material

The choice of material for your handling dollies depends largely on the storage conditions you intend to use. There are two main options to consider:

  • Double-walled steel trucks;
  • Aluminum hand trucks.
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Double-walled steel handtrucks are characterized by their solid tubular steel construction, making them particularly suitable for harsh environments and demanding tasks. Aluminum handtrucks, on the other hand, are easier to handle thanks to their light weight. They are also corrosion-resistant, making them a wise choice for storage in damp environments. Consequently, the material of construction should be chosen according to the intended storage location, to guarantee the durability and performance of the dollies.

Building material

Bib features

When it comes to moving large items, the choice between a folding or fixed skirt is of crucial importance. A folding flap makes sense when the dimensions of goods are frequently variable. It adjusts adaptively to the size of the objects, providing versatility in terms of volume. 

On the other hand, the fixed flap is robust and simplifies handling by maintaining a stable configuration. The decision therefore depends on the nature of your loads, between flexibility of adaptation for the folding skirt and stability for the fixed skirt. The aim is to optimize the efficiency of your transport operations.

Foldability aspect

When considering the purchase of several hand trucks, it's essential to take into account the question of space in your warehouse. Opting for folding handtrucks becomes a relevant decision in this respect. These devices offer a significant advantage in terms of space utilization efficiency, as they fold up compactly when not in use. 

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This folding feature proves particularly useful for storage and transportation, minimizing clutter when the hand trucks are not in use. If optimizing space in your warehouse is a major concern, folding handtrucks are a wise choice.