Hand Truck vs Dolly: Which Moving Tool Is Right for You?

Heavy and big items are not very difficult to handle, but they can also be very dangerous if we do not use the right tool to move these items. The challenge begins when users do not know which tool is used for a specific task.

The difference between a hand truck and a dolly is very important to understand. The use of the right tool helps users to save time, minimize physical stress, and protect themselves and their goods. With the help of these tools, we increase efficiency, better control, and easily transfer goods.

Before discussing the difference between a hand truck and a dolly, we will first know what a hand truck or a dolly is and how they work.

What Makes a Hand Truck Unique?

A hand truck is a L-shaped tool that consists of two wheels and many handles. These wheels and handles help the user tilt the truck easily without third-person help. This truck generally uses upright and vertical movements to transfer small boxes and other appliances.

How It Works:

A hand truck uses a tilt-and-roll mechanism for moving goods. This mechanism allows you to slide the toe plate under the load, tilt the hand truck backward, and transport items on its wheels. It helps in reducing strain and stress in the arm and back.

Example:

A delivery boy uses a hand truck to transfer small boxes and cartons at once without climbing stairs again and again. It can save a lot of time and increase efficiency.

After discussing a hand truck working and its real-life example, now let’s discuss how a dolly can also be a good option.

Why a Dolly Can Be a Better Choice?

A dolly is a low and flat platform having four wheels that are specially designed to carry heavy commodities like furniture, appliances, or medical equipment. A dolly serves as an important in many areas like home, warehouses, hospitals, and film sets.

How It Works:

A dolly is also used as a mechanism of push and pull to move equipment. You can place the item directly onto the platform and pull the dolly across flat surfaces. If we evenly distribute the weight, it is easier to move large loads.

Example:

A ward boy in a hospital may use a dolly to transfer equipment from one operating theater to another without the help of a third person.

A detailed comparison between a hand truck and a dolly is also explained, but first, we understand the comparison through a table.

Hand Truck vs Dolly Table Comparison

A hand truck and a dolly are both necessary moving tools in our daily lives. It is important to understand the difference because they are designed for different types of loads and handling needs. 

Feature	Hand Truck	Traditional Dolly	Best For
Design	2 wheels	4 wheels	Staircases vs flat floors
Load Capacity	Moderate (500-661lbs)	High (600-1000lbs)	Single heavy item vs multiple stacked boxes
Maneuverability	Tight spaces, stairs	Wide surfaces	Narrow corridors vs open areas
Stability	Less stable for wide items	Very stable	Bulky or heavy goods
Typical Use	Boxes, office equipment, small appliances	Furniture, appliances, crates	Vertical lifts vs horizontal moves

How to Select the Best Option for Your Needs? 

The right choice between a hand truck and a dolly depends on the item’s size, weight, surface type, and frequency of use.

1. Size & Weight 

Hand Truck: Hand truck is ideal for those items that have a weight of 500–600 lbs and a height is around 3 ft. It is better for straight and narrow things. 

Dolly: Dolly is more suitable for heavy and bulky items that have a weight of 600–1000 lbs and a height is around 4–6 ft.

2. Floor Type & Surface

Hand truck: Hand trucks can be used for stairs, ramps, and narrow places.

Dolly: Traditional dollies work best on flat surfaces. In recent times, stair-climbing dollies, like XSTO CT250S, are available at XSTO Climbers.

3. Typical Usage

Hand trucks: A hand truck works best for occasional purposes, like home moves or small deliveries.

Dollies: Dollies are more acceptable in daily and commercial use, like in hospitals or large industries.

4. Budget & Storage Space

Hand trucks: Hand trucks are generally light in weight, cheaper, and can take up less space. Its price ranges from $1000 USD to $1300 USD.

Dollies: Dollies are slightly more expensive than a hand truck, and they also require extra storage space due to their size.

Next, we will discuss the safety measures that are needed to take before using any moving tool.

Safety Tips for Using Hand Trucks and Dollies

Safety is the priority in moving any heavy items or goods. Proper techniques and awareness are necessary to prevent accidental injury and damage that are given below:

Proper Load Balance & Securing Items

At first, always ensure that your items are properly placed and positioned.

• Always place items at the center of the truck or dolly.
• Use safety belts or elastic ropes for goods over 100 lbs.
• Before moving any commodity, check for any loose parts.

Correct Lifting & Pushing Techniques

Learn proper technique to use a dolly or hand truck to avoid injury.

• Use the tilt the load and push with the back straight technique for a hand truck.
• Use push rather than pull and lift in pairs for items over 200 lbs for the dolly.
• Not twist your body because it can cause back issues.
• Prefer legs or feet rather than the use of your back to move safely. 

Avoid Slippery Floors

First, inspect and make a plan in your mind which pathway suits you best for safe transport.

• Always pay attention to ramps over 5° or slick floors.
• Only carry 200-500kg weight in a dolly or hand truck. The weight may depend on the model.
• Always use a hand truck or dolly at a speed of 1-2m/s.

Conclusion

Both moving tools are designed and manufactured for different purposes. The hand truck is an ideal option for users who want to move goods upstairs and through narrow spaces. A dolly is best for open and wide areas that transfer big items easily. You can choose the right tool by determining the weight, the size of the item, and the terrain. It will help the user to ensure safety, reliability, and improve efficiency.