Steel vs. Aluminum: Which Cart Material Is Right for You?

Choosing the right material for your warehouse carts plays a major role in efficiency, safety, and long-term performance. At Rol-Away, we design and manufacture aluminum carts, steel carts, and stainless steel carts, all available as standard models that can be modified or fully custom-built to order. Each material serves a different purpose, and the best choice depends on how your team will use the cart day to day.

Aluminum Carts: Lightweight, Easy to Push, and Highly Maneuverable

Aluminum replenishment carts are our most commonly ordered units. They are the easiest carts to maneuver and one of the most popular choices across a wide range of industries. Because aluminum is lightweight and corrosion-resistant, these carts are ideal for operations where carts are pushed frequently throughout the day. They are easy to move even for smaller team members and reduce physical strain during long shifts.

We build a large number of aluminum carts for retail distribution and e-commerce, including custom tote carts, as well as for archive and preservation companies that need smooth handling without risking damage to sensitive materials. Aluminum’s resistance to rust also makes it a strong option for facilities with humidity, frequent cleaning, or changing environments. When ease of movement and operator comfort are priorities, aluminum carts are often the best solution.

Steel Carts: Heavy-Duty Performance for Manufacturing Environments

Steel carts are designed for strength and high weight capacity. They are commonly used in manufacturing settings, including automotive, aerospace, and general machining, where teams need to transport heavy tools, raw materials, and finished components along production lines. Steel provides the structural rigidity required for demanding applications and holds up well in environments where durability matters more than weight.

To support both function and aesthetics, our steel carts (when desired) can be powder coated in any color to match facility standards, improve visibility, or align with brand guidelines. Powder coating also adds an extra layer of protection, helping reduce wear and corrosion over time. If your operation involves consistently heavy loads or industrial use, steel carts offer a dependable, long-lasting solution that can be customized down to the finish.

Stainless Steel Carts: Built for Sanitary and Regulated Environments

Stainless steel carts are the preferred choice for healthcare and food and beverage operations where cleanliness and sanitation are essential. Stainless steel is easy to clean, resistant to corrosion, and well suited for environments that require frequent washdowns or strict hygiene standards. These carts provide durability while meeting the operational needs of medical facilities, labs, and food production spaces.

Choosing the Right Cart Material

The right warehouse cart material depends on how your team works and what your environment demands. Aluminum carts prioritize mobility and ease of use. Steel carts provide strength for heavy-duty manufacturing applications. Stainless steel carts support sanitary and regulated operations.

At Rol-Away, we help customers evaluate their needs and select the right material, then customize each cart to fit their workflow, dimensions, and features. The result is a cart that works as hard as your team does.