Carts

A cart is a wheeled vehicle designed to transport goods or people over short distances. It is typically pushed or pulled by a person or animal and uses a wheel-and-axle arrangement to reduce friction and improve mobility. Carts vary widely in size and construction and are used in homes, markets, industry, and transportation.

Common types include handcarts, which usually have two wheels and a small platform; wheelbarrows, which carry loads on a single wheel with a balance mechanism; shopping carts (also called trolleys in the UK), which are basket-style carts used in retail settings; and utility carts, which have multiple shelves or bins and are used in warehouses, workshops, hospitals, and offices. There are also cargo carts designed to move heavy loads in industrial environments and push carts used by street vendors or service staff.

The concept of carts rests on the invention of the wheel and axle, with ancient carts appearing in several early civilizations to aid agriculture and trade. Over time, cart designs evolved to meet specific tasks, and the rise of retail and logistics in the 20th century led to specialized types and features, such as nesting baskets, ergonomic handles, and materials optimized for sanitation and durability.

Most carts have a chassis or frame, a cargo bed or basket, and four wheels or (less commonly) two or one. Materials range from wood and iron to steel, aluminum, and various polymers. Common features include handles, brakes or wheel locks, foldable components, and interchangeable parts for maintenance. Design aims to balance strength, weight, maneuverability, and ease of storage.

Safety and usability considerations include load limits, braking reliability, wheel integrity, and supervision in environments with children. Modern carts may incorporate corrosion resistance, stackability, and standardization to fit with shelving or store layouts.