Best Carts for Musicians: A Comprehensive Guide for Gigging Artists
Are you tired of lugging around heavy musical equipment? What are the best carts for musicians? Find the perfect cart that will make your gigs a breeze. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about choosing the ideal cart for your band or solo act.
Transporting your instruments, amplifiers, monitors, and PA in a reliable cart is a game-changer for any musician who wants to gig easier.
The importance of choosing the Right cart for gigging musicians
Carrying heavy instruments and PA equipment can be physically demanding, while at the same time, there is a risk of damaging your musical equipment.
A well-designed cart provides a convenient and efficient way to transport your gear while keeping everything secure and protected. That way, you will save your energy, so you can focus more on your performance rather than how to move your equipment from your band’s car or van to the venue you’re playing. Also, you will have more time to prepare for setup and teardown after the gig.
- The importance of choosing the Right cart for gigging musicians
- Types of carts for musicians:
- Factors to consider when choosing a cart:(Hint: A collapsable cart on wheels is what we are aiming at here on Easy Music Gig!)
- Portable and lightweight Trolleys (or Carts) for musicians on the go:
- How to stack things on your cart
- Conclusion: Finding the perfect cart for your needs
Types of carts for musicians:
1. Instrument Carts
Specifically designed for transporting musical instruments, these carts are equipped with specialized features such as padded surfaces, adjustable straps, and compartments tailored to fit various instrument types. They offer enhanced protection and stability during transit.
2. Amplifier Carts
These carts are designed to transport amplifiers of different sizes and weights safely. They often come with adjustable straps, shock-absorbing foam padding, and reinforced frames to ensure the security of your valuable equipment. Since this is an Easy Music Gig post, we won’t be mentioning this type of cart a lot. That’s because we will be focusing on very small amplifiers (or even none, as a matter of fact) which can easily be fitted on any cart type.
3. Foldable Hand Trucks
These guys are a must-have. They are small (foldable), lightweight, and can handle a decent weight. A foldable hand trolley is great for the piece of gear that just didn’t make it on the main cart, or for solo acts.
4. Drum Carts
Drum carts are specifically designed to handle the weight and size of drum sets. They typically feature durable frames, large pneumatic tires, and adjustable straps to secure the drums in place.
5. Utility Carts (or, are they carts for musicians?)
These versatile carts are suitable for musicians with different equipment. They typically feature a sturdy frame, large wheels for easy maneuverability, and adjustable shelves or compartments for organizing different items.
Factors to consider when choosing a cart:
(Hint: A collapsable cart on wheels is what we are aiming at here on Easy Music Gig!)
Before you make a purchase, it’s essential to consider several factors to ensure that the cart meets your specific needs. Here are some key factors to consider:
1. Overall Size and Dimensions of Carts for Musicians
Measure the dimensions of your equipment and make sure that the cart can accommodate the biggest item. If you have to take a trip from your vehicle to the venue more than one time, it’s not a big deal since the venue is most of the time near your parking place.
2. Weight Capacity
Determine the weight of your equipment and choose a cart with a weight capacity higher than the total weight. Overloading a cart can lead to damage or instability.
3. Foldability and Compactness
If you have limited storage space or frequently travel in compact vehicles, consider a cart that is foldable or compact when not in use. A telescoping handle is a good feature. If you get a hand truck, this is a feature you will probably have.
4. Portability and Maneuverability
Look for a cart that is lightweight and easy to transport.
5. Durability and Construction
Opt for carts made from high-quality materials such as steel or aluminum for durability. Check for features like reinforced frames, sturdy wheels, and protective padding to ensure the cart can withstand the demands of frequent use.
Portable and lightweight Trolleys (or Carts) for musicians on the go:
When you gig constantly, having a portable and lightweight cart can make a difference. Here are some of the best carts for gigging musicians:
1. RockNRoller R6RT (Mini)
BEST OVERALL TROLLEY
RockNRoller
R6RT (Mini)
Got to drums, keyboards, PA, or DJ racks move? Do your fellow band members vanish into the night at load-out time? Here’s help on wheels! The compact Rock N Roller R6RT is tough enough to handle 500 lbs. of gear yet it only weighs 24 lbs. to make it easy to manage!
Main Features:
2. RockNRoller R12 Stealth (All-Terrain)
RockNRoller R12 Stealth
(All-Terrain)
The R12STEALTH is the flagship of the RocknRoller® Multi-Cart® line, featuring rugged, foam-filled no-flat 10″ rear wheels and 8″ front casters that are designed to navigate just about any terrain, including gravel, grass, or other uneven surfaces with ease.
Main Features:
3. Millenium Go-Kart Truck XL
BEST BUDGET TROLLEY
Millenium Go-Kart Truck XL
Compact transport trolley by Millenium.
Main Features:
4. Thomann Smartcart
Thomann Smartcart
Foldable and Portable Transport Trolley
Main Features:
5. Adam Hall Porter
BEST fOR SOLO ACTS
Adam Hall Porter
Hand cart with pull-out handle
Main Features:
How to stack things on your cart
When using the same cart on multiple occasions, try to stack your equipment so the biggest items go on the bottom. Also try to create an evenly flat surface, so that the items that go in the second row are as stable as possible. When you figure out the best stacking option after a couple of times, always do it the same way. That way every member of the band knows what goes when and where, meaning you are loading your cart fast and easily.
Bungee cords will come in very handy when transporting equipment stacked high, or when your gigging gear doesn’t have a larger flat surface.
Conclusion: Finding the perfect cart for your needs
Consider the type of cart that suits your instrument and equipment requirements, as well as the factors that are important to you, such as weight capacity, portability, and storage options.
If you are gigging as a band, investing in a good, reliable cart such as the RocknRoller Mini and a foldable hand truck as an additional tool is the best option.
When gigging as a solo act a foldable hand truck will probably do the trick in most situations.
Whether you’re a guitarist, a keyboardist, a drummer, or a solo act, investing in a reliable cart will make your life on the road much easier and more enjoyable.
