Stretcher trolleys with wheels vs without wheels: what’s best for your facility?

The efficiency of patient handling and transport directly impacts the quality of care in today's paced world of healthcare. And one of the most important elements that helps in this process is the stretcher trolley. Doesn't matter if you are setting up a new clinic or upgrading an existing hospital wing, choosing the right type of stretcher trolley is more than just a logistical decision, it’s a clinical one.

One of the most common dilemmas facility managers face is: Should we go for stretcher trolleys with wheels or without? While it might seem like a small detail, the difference between the two can significantly influence how patients are moved, how much strain is placed on staff, and how smoothly daily operations run.

So, let’s break it down. Here’s what you need to know when deciding between stretcher trolleys with wheels vs without wheels, and how to choose what’s best for your healthcare facility.

Highlighting the Basics First

Before we actually understand the pros and cons, let’s first comprehend what these trolleys are meant for. Stretcher trolleys are designed for safe and efficient movement of patients, either within departments or across different zones of a hospital or clinic. They’re also used for emergency evacuations, intra-hospital transport, and surgical preparation.

Wheeled versions are the more commonly used option in hospitals today, thanks to their mobility and convenience. But non-wheeled versions (fixed stretchers) still have their place in specific setups, like in operating rooms, recovery bays, or certain types of long-term care environments.

The key lies in knowing where and how you’ll be using them. 

1. Mobility and Speed of Transfer

When you think of a stretcher, you probably imagine something on wheels. That’s because in most active care settings, mobility is a top priority. Stretcher trolleys with wheels allow for quick and smooth transport of patients, especially in emergency scenarios. From rushing someone from the ER to the OT to simply taking them for an MRI, these models are designed to move fast with minimal effort.

Stretchers without wheels, on the other hand, are stationary. They don’t allow for immediate patient relocation unless lifted manually or used with auxiliary transport systems. While this might sound like a drawback, it actually works well in controlled environments where stability is preferred over speed, like certain surgical units or diagnostic rooms.

2. Safety for Patients and Caregivers

Stretcher trolleys with wheels come with advanced safety features that make them ideal for high-traffic environments. Things like locking mechanisms, side railings, and anti-tip frames provide an extra layer of security during transport. Most importantly, they reduce the physical strain on caregivers, who would otherwise need to manually lift or carry patients.

However, with mobility comes the risk of unintentional movement. In tight spaces or uneven flooring, an improperly locked wheel can cause the stretcher to shift unexpectedly. That’s why caregivers must be trained in how to properly operate wheeled models.

Fixed stretchers don’t move, which means zero risk of rolling or slipping. They are often used in scenarios where patients need to remain still, or where the stretcher forms part of a larger setup, like recovery beds or fixed examination tables. This stability makes them safer in static settings, even though they lack the flexibility of movement.

3. Space Utilisation and Layout

Hospital layouts vary widely, from multi-storey buildings to compact urban clinics. Wheeled stretcher trolleys are space-efficient when designed with foldable or collapsible features. They can be moved out of the way when not in use, stored easily in hallway bays, and transferred between floors using lifts.

In contrast, non-wheeled stretchers are usually bulkier and fixed in place, which means you need dedicated space for them. They can’t be wheeled away or adjusted quickly, so they’re better suited for designated zones where patient movement isn’t required, such as isolation rooms, critical care units, or surgical prep areas.

Choosing between the two largely depends on how dynamic your hospital’s workflow is. If your team is constantly moving patients across departments, wheeled trolleys are a must. If the environment is more static and predictable, fixed stretchers could work just as well.

4. Maintenance and Hygiene

Both types of trolleys need regular cleaning, but wheeled versions often require more upkeep. Since they’re exposed to corridors, elevators, and multiple zones, their wheels and mechanical parts accumulate dirt faster and may require more frequent checks to avoid jams or damage.

Non-wheeled stretchers tend to be easier to maintain in terms of mobility, since they have no moving parts. However, they often come with cushioned or upholstered surfaces that may need deeper sanitation, especially in surgical or high-risk areas.

Ultimately, if your priority is quick-clean surfaces and low mechanical upkeep, non-wheeled options could be slightly more convenient. But if you’re ready to invest in proper maintenance routines, wheeled trolleys offer exceptional operational ease.

5. Versatility and Multi-Functionality

Wheeled stretcher trolleys win hands down when it comes to versatility. From emergency wards and ICUs to radiology units and ambulances, they can be used almost anywhere. Many models also feature adjustable height, tilting frames, and even hydraulic lifts for added flexibility. This makes them ideal for multi-use facilities that handle a wide range of cases daily.

Fixed stretchers, while more limited in use, excel at what they’re designed for: static patient support. They’re often found in specialised zones where patients remain in one place for extended periods, and where mobility is not required. Some modern non-wheeled models can also be integrated into larger modular furniture systems, allowing for hybrid use.

So, Which One’s Better for You?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer here, it really depends on your facility’s needs.

If your hospital or clinic handles high patient traffic, deals with emergencies, or has limited staff for manual lifting, stretcher trolleys with wheels are non-negotiable. They enhance safety, reduce fatigue, and improve response times during critical moments.

However, if you run a small, low-mobility setup, or if you're equipping specialised rooms where patients stay for longer periods, non-wheeled stretchers can be a smart, stable, and space-conscious choice. They offer long-term support and reduce the wear and tear that comes with constant movement.

Thus, in many modern facilities, a blend of both types is often preferred as the most practical approach. Using wheeled trolleys for patient transfers and fixed stretchers for designated care zones can strike the right balance between mobility and stability.

Why Choose Aslam Enterprises for Stretcher Trolleys?

At Aslam Enterprises, we understand that every hospital and clinic has its own unique rhythm. That’s why we offer both wheeled and non-wheeled stretcher solutions, engineered for comfort, safety, and efficiency.

With over 30 years of experience, we design our trolleys in consultation with healthcare professionals, ensuring they meet the real-world challenges of patient handling. Catering to a range of requirements with collapsible transport stretchers, heavy-duty fixed trolleys, along hybrid options with locking wheels, we’ve got you covered.

Built with premium-grade materials and designed for hassle-free maintenance, our stretcher trolleys are trusted by hospitals, clinics, and emergency units across South India. We also offer customisation, quick delivery, and reliable support, so you can focus on what matters most, patient care.

Get in touch with our team today to explore the best stretcher solution for your facility.