What Is a U-Boat Cart? Revisiting a Material Handling Staple

U-boat carts are industrial material handling carts with high rails and narrow edges. Designed for maneuverability, they’re popular solutions for order picking, stocking, and other basic tasks. They’re common at hardware stores and retail furniture establishments — but they’re also widely utilized in warehouses, storage centers, and other logistics operations.

There isn’t an “official" set of features that defines a U-boat cart, but most units are long, heavy-duty steel carts with high handles and six wheels. Two large center wheels allow the units to pivot, and the thin form factor allows for navigation through narrow aisles.  

BHS Material Handling Carts for Stocking, Order Picking, and More

When your material handling equipment is optimized for the task at hand — and designed with solid ergonomic principles in mind — your facility can operate more smoothly. 

BHS provides several ready-to-order solutions for general material handling, and custom equipment is available on request with low lead times.

Flat Stacking Carts (FSC) 

Flat Stacking Carts (FSCs) are a versatile solution for material handling in industrial settings. With a stripped-down U-boat design, FSCs are stackable thanks to four removable steel posts. 

FSCs can be custom-built to accommodate specific tasks, and all units are constructed with heavy-duty steel and a protective powder-coat finish. 

Material Carts (1510001055) 

Material Carts are designed to maximize storage capacity and maneuverability. Each unit is equipped with two flat shelves. 

The open-shelf design makes the Material Cart an ideal option for order and material picking. Square tube corner uprights serve as convenient handholds when moving the cart while also serving as end stops to ensure product is contained within the cart. 

For bulky or awkwardly shaped items, the cart boasts generous spacing between shelves and uprights that extend above the top shelf. This makes it ideal for transporting large volumes of materials that might be difficult to stack on standard carts. 

When not in use, the carts can be stacked on one another to save floor space. The narrow width and smooth-rolling poly casters allow for effortless maneuverability in tight spaces (such as narrow warehouse aisles). 

Order Picking Cart (OPC) 

BHS Order Picking Carts (OPC) are a versatile solution for warehouse tasks, including order picking, merchandise movement, and ergonomic material handling. 

The OPC comes in four standard sizes, but can also be customized to fit specific needs. The cart features fork pockets for positioning via lift truck, as well as smooth-rolling casters. Open shelving with lipped edges allows for clear visibility of contents from all sides while also helping to keep merchandise secure during handling.

Whether you're unloading packages, managing inventory, stocking shelves, gathering parts, or picking items for orders, the OPC is designed to streamline your workflow. Its robust construction and powder-coated finish ensure it can withstand even the most rigorous warehouse conditions.

Custom Material Handling Equipment with Fast Lead Times

Does your operation need a slightly different shelf configuration, specific form factor, or a non-standard cart size? Our engineers can work with you to create the perfect material handling solution. 

Our engineering offices are located down the hall from our 148,000 square-foot production facility, so designs can go into production immediately after client approval. That means fast deliveries — even for highly customized, branded, or powered equipment. 

To discuss custom options, fill out this form or call the BHS sales team at 1.800.247.9500 today.