Transport Wheelchair

A transport wheelchair is a lighter, more compact version of a standard wheelchair. It has small rear wheels (typically 8–14 inches) and is pushed by a caregiver rather than self-propelled by the user.

How it differs from a standard wheelchair

A standard wheelchair has large 24-inch rear wheels so the person sitting in it can turn the wheels and move themselves. That makes it heavier and bulkier. A transport wheelchair removes the large wheels in favor of small ones — it can't be self-propelled, but it weighs far less (aluminum models run 15–22 lb) and folds small enough to lift into a car trunk.

Who benefits most

Transport wheelchairs suit seniors who can't safely walk long distances and have a caregiver to push them — for medical appointments, errands, or travel. Many people use a rollator at home and keep a transport wheelchair for outings. See our best transport wheelchairs roundup.