How Much Does an Average Grocery Cart Cost?

Cart size and materials make a difference: a basic metal cart and a larger cart with plastic components, a child seat, or other features may have different prices. Stores also need to consider delivery, assembly, replacement parts, and maintenance when budgeting for a fleet, because the purchase price is only part of the overall cost.

A regular grocery cart is designed for everyday shopping, while compact carts, double-basket designs, and carts made to accommodate children or shoppers with disabilities serve different needs. Specialty designs may cost more than a basic cart, but the right choice depends on the store’s layout and the people using it, not just the lowest initial price.

If you are budgeting for a store, estimate how many carts you need at busy times and leave room for repairs and replacements; if you mean the groceries inside a cart, that total varies with household size, location, and what you buy. For help planning the food-shopping side, our featured product, Smart Cart, Full Wallet: How to Food Shop on a Budget Without Sacrificing Taste, is a budget grocery shopping guide, and you can also read our article on average grocery cart costs.