U.S. and Canada Material Handling Carts Market - Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends, and Forecast 2031 - By Product, Technology, Grade, Application, End-user, Country: (U.S. and Canada)

The U.S. and Canada material handling carts market is witnessing robust growth, with its market size expected to reach USD 725.73 million by 2024. Driven by increasing industrial operations across sectors like manufacturing, logistics, and retail, material handling carts are becoming essential for enhancing efficiency, safety, and productivity. By 2031, the market is projected to surge to USD 1,165 million, growing at a steady CAGR of 7.00%. The demand for both manual and automated material handling carts is anticipated to rise as businesses continue to prioritize operational improvements and streamlined workflows.

Rising Adoption of Material Handling Carts in North America

Material handling carts, which typically rely on manual labor for movement, are extensively used to transport heavy loads over short distances in industrial settings. These carts come in different sizes and configurations to suit specific industrial applications. Although manual carts remain indispensable, there is a growing preference for automated material handling carts in the U.S. and Canada. This shift toward automation underscores the increasing reliance on technology to streamline industrial operations, with automated carts now occupying a significant portion of the market.

Automation at the Forefront

Automated material handling carts have carved out a significant share of the North American market due to their ability to drastically reduce labor costs, boost operational efficiency, and enhance safety. The automated segment is increasingly favored by industries like retail, healthcare, hospitality, and logistics. As businesses place more emphasis on operational excellence, the demand for automated carts is set to grow, providing safe and cost-efficient solutions for transporting materials across various sectors.

Wide Range of Industrial Applications

Material handling carts are essential tools across multiple industries, including retail, manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare, where they are used to transport goods and materials. The industry continues to see innovation with the introduction of various cart types, such as platform carts, hand trucks, tilt carts, and drum-handling carts. Depending on the application, these carts are made from different materials, including steel, plastic, and rubber, providing flexibility and adaptability. As operational efficiency remains a top priority for businesses, the demand for material handling carts is expected to grow steadily.

E-Commerce Boom Reshaping Market Dynamics

The rapid expansion of e-commerce has significantly impacted the material handling carts market. The growing volume of online orders has driven businesses to invest in more agile and efficient material handling solutions to meet the increased demand for faster deliveries. This shift has led to the adoption of advanced technology, streamlining supply chains and lowering operational costs while ensuring customer satisfaction remains high.

Worker Safety and Ergonomics on the Rise

As workplace safety regulations tighten, industries are focusing on acquiring ergonomically designed carts that meet safety standards. This has increased demand for carts with anti-tip mechanisms, adjustable handles, and secure locking systems designed to reduce worker fatigue and prevent injuries. Furthermore, companies are exploring automated solutions that limit the need for manual labor, boosting worker safety and ensuring compliance with safety standards. The emphasis on employee well-being is expected to further fuel demand for ergonomic material handling carts in the coming years.

Cost Challenges to Adoption

While material handling carts offer numerous advantages, the high upfront costs can be a significant barrier for some businesses. The expenses associated with purchasing and customizing carts for specific industrial needs can be substantial, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises. Additionally, the ongoing costs for maintenance and repairs add to the overall expense, which may slow the rate of adoption among businesses with limited financial resources.

Regional Market Insights: U.S. Leading the Way

The material handling carts market in the U.S. is outpacing that of Canada and Mexico. The U.S. benefits from a more established industrial sector and a larger economy, which drives higher demand for material handling solutions. The country's well-developed supply chain infrastructure and favorable business environment further solidify its position as a market leader. Differences in government policies and regulations also influence market dynamics, with the U.S. providing stronger support for industries such as manufacturing and logistics.

Growing Trend of Online Sales

The online sales of material handling carts are experiencing significant growth due to the convenience of digital purchasing. Buyers can easily compare products, review features, and complete transactions online, making this channel increasingly attractive. This trend is expected to drive the continued adoption of material handling carts as businesses seek cost-effective, online solutions to meet their operational needs.

Competitive Analysis

• Flexqube
• Manitowoc
• Beumer Group
• Crown Equipment Corporation
• American Grinding and Machining Co.
• Toyota
• Qingdao Benco Industry Co. Ltd
• Sharp Industries
• Savant Automation
• Steel King Industries
• Laksi Carts Inc
• Grainger
• RDM Industrial Products
• Unitran Manufacturers Ltd
• Rubbermaid Commercial Products
• Galifco Oregon
• Steel Mill Cranes
• Leeco Steel

U.S. and Canada Material Handling Carts Market Segmentation

By Product Type:

• Manual
  • Platform Carts
  • Hand Trucks
  • Dollies
  • Tilt Carts
  • Service Carts
  • Drum Handling Carts
  • Wire Carts
  • Utility Carts
  • Laundry Carts
  • Hospitality Carts
• Semi-Automatic
  • Picking Carts
  • Bin Carts
  • Stock Picking Carts
  • Medical Carts
• Automatic
  • Flatbed Trailers
  • Dump Trailers
  • Container Trailers
  • Warehouse Carts
  • Others

By Material:

• Aluminum
  • Pneumatic Rubber
  • Filled Rubber
  • Solid
• Steel
  • Pneumatic Rubber
  • Filled Rubber
  • Solid
• Stainless Steel
  • Pneumatic Rubber
  • Filled Rubber
  • Solid
• Plastic

By Sales Channel:

• Online
• Offline
  • Distributors/Dealers
  • Direct

By Application:

• Retail & Grocery
• Food & Beverages
• Manufacturing
• Logistics
• e-Commerce
• Automotive
• Government
• Others

By Country:

• U.S.
• Canada
• Mexico