Purchase of dolly for moving things

We have several of ones like these

specifically the FAIRBANKS Mfr. Model # ED15-1830-3HR

If you paint them first and then take a bit of care they last a long time

Unfortunately the old dollies are better built than many you find in big box stores today. I prefer steel to aluminum frames, too. I found a really old one, with ball bearings and hvy construction, discarded in a vacant lot near my house, and after $25 worth of welding on the lower platform, it performs splendidly. You might find one of these in local garage sales. You can get an idea of the styles and features if you google for "hand truck". For instance at

you will find something called "Little Giant 2" for about $120, which has some features I like: Simple design, heavy duty wheels, stair glides (important!), and no bells nor whistles. Stair glides allow you to go up and down stairs with "no bumping", a neat feature. But nothing beats pushing/holding/feeling, so by all means do not buy by mail unless the model you want, and have seen, is locally unavailable. As I don't like the built-in strap models, I buy two sets of tie-down nylon straps that have ratchet tighteners, then attach them for the rare times when I need them. With this simple setup, I have moved everything from fridges, to washers, to trash cans, with ease. BTW, you may not *want* commercial quality, but I highly recommend it, for longevity and ease of use. You might also consider your neighbors - many folks of toolsy persuasion have them, and may be happy to lend them out, as they are nearly unbustible.

In article , snipped-for-privacy@spiritone.com says... :) I need to purchase a dolly to move items(it would be for homeowner use as :) opposed to commercial use). I would like to get a model that will handle :) moving appliances(dishwasher/washer/dryer) as well as do the regular :) stuff(boxes/etc). Is there a model that doesn't isn't super expensive that :) will do this. If so where is it available?( It seems like a lot of the ones :) I see in Home Depot,etc are not very good quality) :) :) Thank you, :) :) Bob :) My daughter bought one from Wal-Mart last week-end that impressed me with the quality it was made of..around $30

Don't buy anything that folds or requires assembly. Only buy welded frames. Most dollies will handle the bulk of what you need except refrigerators and really heavy planters (1/2 wine barrel etc.). Pay attention to the max load rating. You can sometimes find used ones at the used office furniture stores.