For the estimated 61 million adults in the United States who live with a disability that impacts major life activities, according to the CDC, tasks like shopping for essentials can come with substantial challenges. While the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) has helped increase accessibility in public spaces over the past three decades, individuals with mobility issues still frequently encounter obstacles. That‘s why it‘s so important for major retailers like Sam‘s Club to provide accommodations like wheelchairs, motorized carts, and other assistive devices.
If you or someone you shop with has a disability or mobility limitations, you may be wondering – does Sam‘s Club have motorized handicap carts or manual wheelchairs available? How do I access them? Are there any restrictions or requirements? We‘ll answer all these common questions and more in this comprehensive guide.
One of the most useful and popular accessibility tools that Sam‘s Club offers in its stores is the motorized shopping cart. Also referred to as electric scooters, handicap carts, or power carts, these battery-powered devices allow users to comfortably travel through the store‘s aisles and departments without needing to walk or push a traditional shopping cart.
Sam‘s Club‘s website states that motorized carts for customer use are available at all of its nearly 600 U.S. store locations free of charge. However, the exact number and type of carts may vary from club to club based on size and demand. A Sam‘s Club representative told us that most locations have between 5-8 motorized carts on hand at any given time.
To minimize the risk of all carts being in use when you need one, consider contacting your local Sam‘s Club before your shopping trip to confirm availability. Some stores may also allow you to reserve a cart in advance, though this is not guaranteed.
Using a Sam‘s Club motorized cart is quite simple. Upon entering the store, look for the cart storage area, typically located near the entrance or customer service desk. If a cart is available, you‘ll usually find it plugged into a charging station to keep the battery full. Unplug the cart carefully, then take a moment to adjust the settings to your comfort before driving into the aisles. Note that a Sam‘s Club associate will be happy to assist you with the process if needed – just ask!
When you‘re finished shopping, return the motorized cart to the same storage area and plug it back in so it‘s ready for the next customer. Be sure to collect all your personal items and transfer your purchases to your own vehicle.
One important factor to keep in mind is that motorized carts are provided on a first-come, first-served basis. During peak times like weekends or holidays, there may be a line or all carts may be in use. Having to potentially wait for a cart is one downside compared to bringing your own personal mobility device. However, using a store cart can be a good solution if you don‘t own a power scooter or your own device is difficult to transport to the store.
Manual Wheelchairs Provide a Push in the Right Direction
For individuals who need some mobility assistance but don‘t require a motorized device, Sam‘s Club also offers complimentary manual wheelchairs at the front of each store. Traditional push-wheelchairs can be a good option if you‘re comfortable operating them yourself or shopping with a companion who can assist you.
Like with motorized carts, manual wheelchairs are available for any customer to use as needed on a first-come, first-served basis. If you have trouble locating the wheelchairs or need help transferring into one, a Sam‘s Club associate will be glad to assist.
Keep in mind that while Sam‘s Club‘s manual wheelchairs are convenient for in-store use, they may not be quite as comfortable or easy to use for extended periods as a personal custom-fit wheelchair. If you already own a manual wheelchair that meets your needs, you are absolutely welcome to bring and use it at any Sam‘s Club location. In fact, the ADA requires Sam‘s Club and other stores to allow any manually-operated or power-driven mobility device that complies with legitimate safety requirements.
A Wide Range of Mobility Aids for Purchase
In addition to providing free wheelchairs and motorized carts for customers to use while shopping, Sam‘s Club sells a variety of mobility equipment and accessories in-store and online. This includes:
- Manual wheelchairs: Prices typically range from around $100 for a basic model to over $500 for lighter-weight or highly customized options
- Power wheelchairs and mobility scooters: Options from top brands like Pride Mobility, Drive Medical, and Golden Tech, often retailing for between $1,500 to over $5,000 based on features
- Rollators and walkers: Commonly priced between $50 to $200
- Canes and crutches: Basic models start around $15, with more stylized or ergonomic designs often costing $30 to $50
- Bathroom safety devices: Shower chairs, transfer benches, and toilet aids typically range from $30 to $200
- Lift chairs and cushions: Recliner lifts often cost $300 to over $1,000, while cushions are usually $25 to $100
- Vehicle mobility solutions: Wheelchair ramps, lifts, and carriers commonly priced between $100 to over $1,000
Specific brands, models, and pricing vary between Sam‘s Club locations and online. You can easily compare options on the Sam‘s Club website or app, and certain products may be eligible for special member-only discounts or promotions. If purchasing a mobility aid from Sam‘s Club to use at home or on the go, be sure to carefully review all specifications to ensure it fits your needs.
How Sam‘s Club Stacks Up to Other Retailers
Sam‘s Club is certainly not the only major retailer providing mobility assistance and accessibility accommodations. Its parent company Walmart, as well as competitors like Costco and Target, all offer complimentary wheelchair and motorized cart usage at most locations in keeping with ADA requirements.
However, the quantity, features, and availability of mobility aids can vary considerably between retailers and even individual store locations. According to a research survey by the Center for Accessible Housing, Walmart was found to have the highest average number of motorized carts per store at 7.9, followed by Sam‘s Club at 5.8 and Costco at 4.6.
While Target doesn‘t provide public data on its exact cart counts, anecdotal evidence suggests its numbers may be lower as Target stores are typically smaller than warehouse clubs. All Target locations are required to have at least one wheelchair and one electric cart by corporate policy.
Other accessibility services and accommodations may differ between retailers as well. For example, Costco has been recognized for its proactive approach in installing automatic push plates for entrance doors. Walmart‘s app offers detailed store maps to help guide users to specific products and departments.
When it comes to purchasing mobility equipment, prices and selection are often quite similar between the major retailers. Sam‘s Club, Walmart, and Costco tend to leverage their bulk buying power to offer competitive member prices, while Target may provide more premium or stylized product options.
Overcoming Obstacles and Increasing Accessibility
Despite the availability of mobility aids and accommodations, individuals with disabilities can still face challenges when shopping at Sam‘s Club and other retailers. Some common issues include:
- Stores running out of available wheelchairs or carts during busy times
- Difficulty locating or accessing mobility aids within the store
- Malfunctioning or uncharged equipment
- Aisles or departments not being wide enough to easily navigate with a wheelchair/cart
- High shelves or other hard-to-reach product placements
- Lack of companion or family restrooms
- Needing assistance to transfer purchases from cart to vehicle
If you experience any of these issues or other accessibility obstacles at Sam‘s Club, don‘t hesitate to alert a store associate or manager. They may be able to provide additional assistance or suggest solutions. For persistent ADA violations, you can also file a formal complaint with the Department of Justice.
Many retailers are working to consistently improve their accessibility measures. New technologies like Smartcarts with GPS tracking, voice assistance, and automatic braking may help make navigation easier in the future.
Planning for a Successful Sam‘s Club Trip
To make your next Sam‘s Club visit as smooth as possible when using a wheelchair or motorized cart, consider the following expert tips:
- Contact your local club in advance to confirm mobility aid availability and inquire about reserving equipment if needed
- Schedule your trip during less busy times if possible to minimize crowds and wait times
- Bring a companion if you need assistance with reaching items, loading purchases, or operating a manual wheelchair
- Use Sam‘s Club‘s app or website to preorder items for pickup, reducing the need to navigate store aisles
- Take advantage of the Scan & Go feature to skip the regular checkout line
- Don‘t overload your cart to ensure safe steering and braking ability
- Be patient and prepared for potential delays or malfunctions
- Provide feedback on your experience to help improve future accommodations
With a bit of advance planning, individuals with mobility challenges can have a safe and successful shopping experience at Sam‘s Club using the provided wheelchairs, carts, and other assistance services.
The Road Ahead
As the population ages and awareness increases, accessibility will only become an increasingly important issue for retailers. Already, mobility device usage is on the rise – the number of wheelchair and scooter users in the U.S. is expected to grow from 6.8 million in 2015 to over 8.5 million by 2030, according to CMS.
By proactively offering services like complimentary wheelchairs and motorized carts, Sam‘s Club and other major retailers are helping to create a more inclusive and accessible shopping environment for people with disabilities. Continuing to gather feedback from customers, explore new technologies and solutions, and collaborate with disability advocates will be key to driving additional progress.
Increased mobility doesn‘t just provide access to material goods – it also helps support social interaction, independence, and an overall improved quality of life. Working together, shoppers and retailers like Sam‘s Club can help ensure store aisles remain wide open to all.
