All categories
Business & Offices
Electronics & Media
Fashion & Accessories
Groceries & Essentials
Health & Personal Care
Home & Living
Kids & Family
Sports & Outdoors
Search in ZoneOffer
Loading...
If you’ve ever wished for a little extra surface, a mobile storage unit, or a mini-serving station that glides from desk to meeting room, a utility cart could be your new best friend. Utility carts are versatile — one moment they’re holding printer supplies, the next they’re a coffee trolley during a brainstorming session. Think of them as the Swiss Army knife of office furniture: compact, mobile, and surprisingly clever.
From corralling stationery and files to creating a flexible hot-desk setup, utility carts turn clutter into calm. Use them as a mobile printer stand, an AV trolley for presentations, a snack and drink station for visitors, or a quick-access supply hub near high-traffic areas. The mobility means you get an extra surface exactly where you need it, without committing to permanent furniture.
Not every cart is created equal — some are narrow and tall for filing, others are low and wide for serving. There are three main styles to keep in mind: industrial heavy-duty carts for tools and load-bearing tasks, mid-century modern serving trolleys that double as décor, and lightweight plastic or mesh carts for quick, inexpensive storage. Choose the type that matches your daily needs, whether it’s frequent heavy lifting or light, stylish service.
Serving trolleys from designer brands bring an aesthetic flourish to the workplace. If your office values design, a serving trolley in eggshell or auburn red can feel like a piece of furniture rather than workplace equipment. These are ideal for hospitality areas and client-facing spaces.
Functional carts prioritise storage and durability. Look for multiple tiers, locking wheels, and reinforced frames if you plan to store heavier items like paper reams or AV equipment. These are the workhorses of a busy office.
The material of a cart affects weight, strength, and look. Metal carts are robust and industrial; wood and laminated options are warmer and fit traditional office interiors; plastic and mesh are lightweight and budget-friendly. Consider powder-coated steel for durability, solid wood for style, and ABS plastic for easy cleaning. If you’re moving heavy loads, check the load capacity — expressed in pounds — and pick a cart rated comfortably above your typical needs.
If you’re in the market for design-forward pieces, Nordic Nest is a fantastic starting point. They curate Scandinavian brands that blend function and beauty. Among standout items you’ll find the Ferm Living Lager Serving Trolley in aluminium and the Hay Arcs trolleys in high and low variants — available in tasteful shades like eggshell and auburn red. These pieces work as both practical tools and style statements, especially in modern offices or creative studios.
The Ferm Living Lager trolley is lightweight thanks to its aluminium construction, and it’s perfect when you want a durable trolley without the industrial look. It rolls easily across office floors and can handle daily wear. Use it as a mobile coffee station or to transport supplies between teams.
The Hay Arcs trolleys come in high and low versions, giving you options depending on whether you need storage depth or a low profile for visual flow. Their simple arcs and clean finishes are designed to complement minimalist interiors. Choose eggshell for a subtle, airy feel or auburn red for a bold accent.
While designer options are available from specialist retailers, you can find functional, budget-friendly, and premium carts across many UK stores. Here’s a practical roundup of places to check when shopping for an office utility cart.
Nordic Nest specialises in Scandinavian brands and carries pieces like Ferm Living and Hay. If design is a priority, they offer curated choices with clear product details and style-focused options that double as décor for client-facing spaces.
John Lewis provides a broad range from functional metal carts to stylish wooden trolleys. They’re a good place to see pieces in person and compare finishes. Look for their higher-end lines if you want a balance of style and everyday practicality.
IKEA remains a go-to for affordable, functional carts with simple assembly. Their modular systems mean you can often customise shelves and add storage accessories. If you want a low-cost option to experiment with layout or temporary setups, IKEA is hard to beat.
Argos stocks a variety of utility carts suitable for quick buys and tight budgets. Their selection is practical and often available for speedy collection, which is handy when you need an extra cart fast for an event or pop-up workspace.
Staples and Viking are aimed specifically at businesses, so their carts are designed for durability and function. Look here for heavy-duty trolleys and multi-tiered units with lockable castors — useful for storing office equipment and supplies securely.
Amazon offers everything from designer trolleys to budget plastic carts, with user reviews to help guide choices. The vast catalogue means you can compare prices and models quickly, but pay attention to verified customer photos and load capacity specs.
Robert Dyas and Dunelm often carry carts that straddle home and office use. These tend to be attractive and practical — great for small businesses or home offices that need a bit of style with their storage solutions.
Choosing the right cart doesn’t need to be intimidating. Ask yourself these questions: Will the cart carry heavy equipment or light supplies? Do you need lockable wheels? Is appearance important for client areas? What footprint can you afford in the room? Answering these helps narrow the field to carts that fit both your function and aesthetic.
Always verify the load capacity in pounds and choose a cart with a safety margin. If you’re storing 60-pound printing supplies, aim for a cart that can handle 80–100 pounds to avoid stress on the frame and wheels. Wider bases and four-wheel designs breed stability, especially when moving across thresholds.
Look for swivel castors with a locking mechanism so the cart stays put when you need it to. Rubber wheels are kind to floors and roll smoothly; hard plastic may scuff. If your office has thresholds, larger wheel diameters in inches will glide more easily.
Measure the tightest doorway and aisle in inches before you buy. A narrow cart is great for tight corridors, but a wider cart provides more surface area and storage. Keep clearance in mind so you can still manoeuvre the cart when fully loaded.
Utility carts can be stealthy organisers or centre-stage style elements. Place a designer trolley near a seating area for beverages, or tuck a slim metal cart into a supply closet as a pull-out solution. A wooden trolley can warm up contemporary offices, while a sleek aluminium piece keeps things modern and minimalist.
Basic care extends a cart’s life. Wipe surfaces with a damp cloth, avoid abrasive cleaners on powder-coated finishes, and occasionally tighten bolts. For wheels, remove trapped debris and lubricate bearings if they begin to squeak. Treat the cart like a small appliance — a little care goes a long way.
Prices vary widely. Budget plastic or mesh carts can start under £30, functional metal trolleys often fall in the mid-range, and designer serving trolleys from Scandinavian brands can run higher. Think in terms of value: a well-made cart can save time and reduce frustration, which often justifies a slightly higher spend.
Because the same or similar models can appear across multiple retailers at different prices, using a comparison site can save time and money. Compare product specs like load capacity, wheel type, and dimensions in inches side-by-side before deciding. Don’t forget to check for seasonal sales and clearance stock if you’re not in a rush.
If sustainability matters, consider refurbished or second-hand carts. Many office furniture suppliers and local marketplaces list high-quality used trolleys at a fraction of the cost. Refurbished designer pieces, especially metal or solid wood, can look brand-new and carry smaller environmental footprints.
Need a short list? Here’s a quick match-up based on common needs: For designer aesthetics, try Nordic Nest offerings like the Hay Arcs trolley. For functionality and durability, check Staples or Viking for heavy-duty options. For affordability and quick fixes, IKEA and Argos deliver reliable choices. For a broad selection and reviews, Amazon is convenient. Mix and match by function and budget to find what fits.
Utility carts are one of those small investments with outsized returns. They free up space, increase mobility, and can even enhance your office’s look. Whether you want a statement-serving trolley or a rugged storage cart, the right choice improves daily workflow and keeps things neat without a fuss.
Utility carts blend practicality with personality. From designer options at Nordic Nest featuring Ferm Living and Hay to hard-working solutions at retailers like John Lewis, IKEA, and Staples, there’s a cart to match every office need and style. Measure carefully in inches, consider load in pounds, and choose materials and wheels suited to your routines. With the right cart, your office will feel more organised, more flexible, and a little more enjoyable to work in.
| Utility Carts | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Hay Arcs Trolley High Serving Trolley Eggshell | £ 230,- | |
| Ferm Living Lager Serving Trolley Aluminium | £ 449,- |
