Shopping carts are vital to retail establishments, but they can also be a source of frustration for customers when they don’t function properly. For store owners and managers, understanding common shopping cart issues is essential for maintaining a smooth shopping experience. From malfunctioning wheels to cleanliness concerns, here are the most frequent problems with shopping carts that shoppers face—and how you can best address them.

Wheel Malfunctions

One of the most common shopping cart issues is malfunctioning wheels. Shoppers frequently encounter carts with stuck, squeaky, or wobbly wheels, which make maneuvering through the store difficult and frustrating. This is often caused by debris getting caught in the wheels or general wear and tear from frequent use. When a wheel is stuck or wobbly, it can cause the cart to veer off course or require more effort to push, negatively impacting the customer’s shopping experience.

Structural Damage

Over time, shopping carts are prone to structural damage, such as broken handles, bent frames, or missing parts. A broken handle can make it hard for customers to comfortably push the cart, while a bent frame can cause carts to jam when stacked or nested. These issues are usually the result of rough handling or prolonged use without proper maintenance. Such damage not only affects usability but can also pose safety risks for customers.

Sanitation Concerns

Cleanliness is another significant issue that shoppers frequently encounter. Carts can accumulate dirt, grime, and bacteria from being handled by hundreds of customers daily. Especially during cold and flu season (or in the wake of a pandemic), concerns over cart hygiene become even more pronounced. If carts are not cleaned regularly, they can become a source of germs, making customers hesitant to use them.

Customer Complaints

Retailers often receive complaints from customers about the lack of selection when it comes to cart sizes. Some shoppers may prefer larger carts to accommodate bigger shopping trips, while others may want smaller, more manageable carts for quick visits. 

A limited variety of cart sizes can leave customers frustrated, especially if they feel the available options don’t meet their needs. Additionally, complaints about cleanliness, broken parts, and poor functionality are common, as these issues directly impact the shopping experience.

Solutions for Shopping Cart Issues

To minimize these (and other) shopping cart problems, retailers can take several proactive measures. First, conduct routine maintenance. Regularly inspect carts for loose wheels, damaged handles, and bent frames. Addressing these issues early can prevent them from worsening and disrupting customer experiences. Don’t forget: maintenance also includes wheel care! Regular wheel cleaning and lubricant application can help prevent debris buildup and reduce the likelihood of shopping cart wheel problems, like stuck or squeaking wheels.

Next, try employing some sanitation protocols. This means establishing a cleaning schedule for all shopping carts, especially during flu season or in times of heightened concern over hygiene. Offering sanitizing wipes at the store entrance for customers to clean carts themselves can also help reassure them.

You might also look into varying your cart selection. Provide different cart sizes to meet the varying needs. Having both large and small carts available ensures that all customers can find the right option for their shopping trip. And finally, encourage feedback from customers about the condition of the carts. Quick responses to complaints can help you stay on top of maintenance issues and improve customer satisfaction.

Good L Corp, Your Trusted Cart Supplier

What is the lifespan of a shopping cart? Typically, you can get five to ten years out of a cart—but only if it is maintained. From malfunctioning wheels to cleanliness concerns, addressing common shopping cart issues is key to ensuring your carts last and that your shoppers’ experience is a positive one. By implementing regular maintenance routines and offering varied cart options, you can minimize problems in your store and maximize overall customer satisfaction.

Good L Corp is a leader in cart and basket manufacturing, providing a wide array of customizable, American-made products. Contact us today to learn more about what we offer!