See Part 1 of the Retailer's Handbook
3. Sizing Your Fleet
Size dictates how much your customer buys. A cart that is too small limits the average ticket size; a cart that is too large can feel cumbersome in narrow aisles.
- Small (Daily Shopper): Ideal for convenience stores and pharmacies. These encourage quick trips without being bulky.
- Medium/Large (The Standard): The workhorse for supermarkets. Deep enough for a week's worth of groceries but agile enough to turn corners easily.
- Double Basket / Two-Tier: Perfect for smaller footprints where floor space is limited but you still want to encourage larger purchases.
4. Safety & Liability: The Hidden Risk
The most overlooked aspect of buying carts is safety. A wheel falling off or a child seat collapsing can lead to significant liability issues.
Regardless of who you buy from, ensure your supplier follows ASTM International Standards.
At Carriage Trade, every cart—whether new or refurbished—undergoes a multi-point safety inspection. We check weld integrity, frame alignment, and install brand-new seat belts on every unit to ensure your smallest customers are safe.
Final Verdict
- Choose Metal if you need maximum cart density and easy cleaning. Shop Metal Shopping Carts »
- Choose Plastic if you want a quiet ride, custom branding, or live near the ocean.Shop Plastic Shopping Carts »
- Choose Refurbished if you want to stretch your capital budget without sacrificing quality. Shop Plastic Shopping Carts »
Still not sure?
We’ve been helping retailers make this choice since 1959. Call Dave at 800-822-0422 for a free consultation on the best fleet for your floor plan.
