I'm the equipment procurement manager at a machinery manufacturing plant. Over the past few years, our plant has been expanding, demanding ever-higher production efficiency and increasing the pressure on material handling within the factory. Previously, we used forklifts and overhead cranes to move large workpieces, such as steel plates, molds, and mechanical parts, weighing from hundreds of kilograms to tens of tons. As order volume increased, this traditional handling method began to expose more and more problems—low efficiency, high costs, and safety hazards.
Last year, we decided to upgrade our internal logistics equipment and began searching for alternatives. After repeatedly comparing various options, including flatbed trailers, automated guided vehicles (AGVs), and logistics rail systems, we ultimately chose the electric transfer cart as one of our primary handling equipment.
I'm writing this article today at the invitation of PEISA Machinery. It can also provide a practical reference for those considering purchasing an electric transfer cart.
What is an electric transfer cart?
Many people, upon first encountering this term, ask: What exactly does an electric transfer cart do? In simple terms, it's an industrial transport vehicle specifically designed for moving heavy materials. It can be used to transfer equipment, steel structures, molds, steel coils, and other large items within factory workshops.
Looking like a low-profile platform truck, it boasts a very strong load capacity, ranging from 1 ton to over 500 tons. It's available in both track-based and trackless configurations, making it extremely flexible for use.
Our Electric Flatbed Cart Model and Configuration
We chose a Battery-Powered Trackless Transfer Cart with the following configuration:
Load Capacity: 15 tons
Table Dimensions: 4000mm × 2000mm
Battery Power: Maintenance-free battery
Operation: Wireless remote control + joystick control
Steering: Hydraulic steering system, capable of 90° turns
Safety Features: Emergency stop button + audible and visual alarm
This vehicle is specifically used to transport large welded parts from Workshop A to Workshop C. Previously, it required three people working together with a forklift, but now it can be handled by one person.
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Frequently Asked Questions (Summarized from my procurement process)
1. Is track required? Not necessarily. There are two options: track-based and flat-surface, depending on your factory layout.
2. How much does one cost?
This depends on the tonnage and configuration, generally ranging from $6,000 to $50,000.
3. Is maintenance difficult?
It's almost maintenance-free; regular wheel and battery checks are sufficient.
4. Can it climb slopes?
Yes, but the power system must be customized according to the slope.
5. Can it be explosion-proof?
Yes, explosion-proof electric flat carts designed specifically for chemical plants can also be used.
VII. To buyers who are hesitating
If you're hesitant about buying electric transfer carts, I have a suggestion: try one first; it's definitely worth it. We've already ordered a second one for the mold shop, and we plan to add an AGV linkage system next year to completely upgrade our in-plant logistics.
Industrial modernization isn't just about slogans; it starts with transportation efficiency.
If you're interested in this type of equipment, please leave a message and I can share suppliers, configuration tables, and purchasing recommendations.
—— Real Case Study: A Purchasing Manager from a Manufacturing Company
