What Are the Drivable Carts at Walmart Called?

The drivable carts you may see at Walmart are generally called electric shopping carts or motorized shopping carts . You may also hear them called mobility carts or electric scooters, although a shopping cart typically has a basket attached for carrying groceries and other purchases.

A motorized shopping cart is designed for use while shopping, with a seat, driving controls, and a basket or other space for merchandise. A personal mobility scooter serves a similar transportation purpose but may be owned by the rider and used in many settings, rather than being a cart provided for use inside a store.

Motorized shopping carts are often kept near a store entrance, but their location and availability can vary by Walmart location and by the time you visit. If you don’t see one when you arrive, ask an associate where the carts are kept or whether one is available; you can also call the store before your trip if access to a cart is important for your visit.

Before moving, get comfortable in the seat, locate the controls, and follow any operating instructions posted on the cart so you know how to start, steer, and stop. Drive at a pace that gives you room to react around shoppers and displays, and keep your purchases in the basket without letting items obstruct your view or the controls.

Check the product’s listed specifications when evaluating using a cart while you shop.

If you’re using a motorized cart for a longer grocery trip, organizing your list by section can help you navigate the store without unnecessary backtracking. For ideas on planning meals and shopping with a budget in mind, our featured guide, Smart Cart, Full Wallet: How to Food Shop on a Budget Without Sacrificing Taste, covers budget grocery shopping, meal planning, and savings tips; you can also read our article on Walmart’s drivable carts.