Does Target Have Motorized Carts? Your Complete Guide To Accessible Shopping At Target

Table of Contents

Introduction: The Short Answer and Why It Matters
Yes, Most Target Stores Provide Motorized Carts for Guest Use
Why these carts matter for seniors, temporary injuries, and chronic conditions
How to Locate and Use a Motorized Cart at Target
Where to find them
How to request assistance from a Target team member
Basic operation and controls
Safety tips and good etiquette
What to Do If a Motorized Cart Isn’t Available
Common scenarios you might run into
Practical alternatives and Target services that help
How to report issues or request a fix
Target’s Broader Commitment to Accessibility
ADA compliance and what it means in-store
Other accessibility features you can expect
Inclusive shopping in practice
Tips for a Smooth Shopping Experience with Mobility Aids at Target
Plan your visit
Communicate what you need
Backup plans that keep your trip on track
A Quick Look Under the Hood: How Motorized Carts Work
Frequently Asked Questions About Target’s Motorized Carts
Conclusion: Comfortable, Independent, and Inclusive Shopping

Introduction: The Short Answer and Why It Matters

I’ll cut right to it. Yes, most Target stores have motorized carts (also called electric shopping carts or motorized mobility scooters) available for guests who need mobility assistance. I’ve used them at my local Target and I’ve helped family members use them after surgery. When getting through a big-box store feels like a marathon, that extra help can make the difference between a stressful trip and an easy one.

I wrote this guide to share what I’ve learned in the aisles. I cover where to find the carts, how to use them safely, what to do when they’re not available, and how Target supports accessibility more broadly. If you’re planning a visit with a parent, recovering from an injury, or dealing with a chronic condition, I want you to feel confident before you even park the car.

Yes, Most Target Stores Provide Motorized Carts for Guest Use

In my experience, motorized carts are a standard accessibility feature at Target stores. Target Corporation prioritizes accessible retail environments and that includes mobility aids. You’ll see similar support at Walmart, Kroger, and other large retailers because mobility assistance is now part of modern retail accessibility. It isn’t just a nice-to-have. It helps guests with mobility impairment shop independently and it aligns with expectations around disability access.

Target doesn’t publish a national inventory of electric shopping carts. Stores vary by size and guest demand. That said, most locations keep several motorized carts near the entrance and the Guest Service desk. They’re free to use. You don’t need to show a medical note. If you need a riding cart for shopping, you simply take one or ask a Target team member for help.

Why these carts matter for seniors, temporary injuries, and chronic conditions

I saw this firsthand when my dad started using a motorized cart after knee surgery. The cart turned a long errand into an easy ride. Seniors benefit in the same way as do folks managing chronic health conditions like arthritis or COPD. Mobility aids don’t just help you get to the milk and back. They let you set your own pace, conserve energy, and focus on your list.

The need is widespread. According to public health data, about one in four adults in the U.S. lives with a disability and mobility impairment is one of the most common types. Add in temporary issues like sprains, surgery recovery, or pregnancy and the picture is clear. Electric carts improve the shopping experience for many guests and they support independence.

How to Locate and Use a Motorized Cart at Target

Where to find them

At most Target stores you’ll find electric carts:

Just inside the main entrance or vestibule
Near the Guest Service desk
Parked at charging stations against the front wall

If you don’t see them right away, peek toward the Customer Service desk or ask a Target team member in red. I’ve walked into stores where the carts sat behind a row of manual wheelchairs and standard carts. They’re usually plugged in with charging cables near a wall outlet.

How to request assistance from a Target team member

If carts aren’t visible or if you need help transferring into the seat, ask any Target team member. They can:

Locate an available motorized cart
Unplug a unit that’s fully charged
Check the battery indicator
Find a manual wheelchair if that fits you better
Call the store manager if something needs attention

I’ve seen team members grab a cart from the other entrance and bring it over. I’ve also seen them guide a guest to an alternative when carts are in use. Don’t hesitate to ask. That’s what Guest Services is for.

Basic operation and controls

Most Target motorized carts share similar controls. If you’ve driven one, you’ve driven most of them. Here’s what I usually check before rolling:

On/Off switch: Usually a key, power button, or toggle near the handle
Direction selector: Forward and reverse buttons or levers
Speed control: A simple low to medium setting is typical for in-store use
Throttle: A lever or paddle you press with your fingers
Braking: Most carts stop when you release the throttle and some include a separate brake lever
Battery indicator: A small gauge on the console that shows the charge level
Seating and basket: A stable seat with armrests and a front basket for items

Start slow. Keep both hands on the handle. Steer wide around endcaps. If you’re new to it, do a small loop near the entrance before you head down the aisles.

Safety tips and good etiquette

I’ve learned a few rules of thumb that keep everyone safe and happy:

Keep the speed low especially around busy areas and narrow aisles
Signal your turns with eye contact and a simple “excuse me” when needed
Give kids and other carts plenty of space
Avoid tight U-turns at the end of aisles to prevent tipping
Park out of the way when you stop to compare items
Don’t overload the basket beyond its weight capacity
Watch the battery indicator and return the cart if it drops low

Common sense goes a long way. You want to feel confident and relaxed while you shop. Slower is smoother and smoother is faster.

What to Do If a Motorized Cart Isn’t Available

Common scenarios you might run into

Sometimes you’ll swing by and every cart is taken. Or you’ll spot a few plugged in with red lights blinking. Here’s what I’ve seen most often:

All carts are in use during peak hours
Several carts are charging after a long stretch of use
A unit is out for maintenance or repair
A store recently expanded or remodeled and demand temporarily spiked

Don’t assume you’re out of luck. Ask Guest Services to check availability. The team can tell you if a cart is about to return or if another entrance has one free.

Practical alternatives and Target services that help

If a motorized cart isn’t available, you still have options:

Manual wheelchairs: Some Target stores keep manual wheelchairs near the entrance. Ask a team member if you prefer that setup or need a quick backup.
Assisted shopping: A team member can push a standard cart and help you find items. You set the pace while they handle the wheels.
Drive Up: Order in the Target app then park in the designated Drive Up spot. Team members bring your order to your car.
Order Pickup: Place an order online or in the app then pick it up inside at the counter. It’s quick and requires minimal walking.
Same-day delivery with Shipt: If getting to the store feels hard today, have your items delivered to your door.

I lean on Drive Up when I’m short on time because it cuts out the long walk, the cart hunt, and the checkout line. It’s also a great backup if you arrive and carts are in use.

How to report issues or request a fix

If you encounter a problem, tell a team member or ask for the store manager. Be specific. For example:

“Cart 3 loses power after a minute even when the battery reads full”
“The right armrest on the second cart is loose”
“The charger near the entrance doesn’t light up”

Clear details help Maintenance staff troubleshoot fast. Stores handle charging schedules and minor repairs as part of normal store operations. If demand is consistently high, the store manager can escalate to inventory management for more units.

Target’s Broader Commitment to Accessibility

ADA compliance and what it means in-store

Target stores are public accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act. That means you should be able to enjoy full and equal access to goods and services. The ADA doesn’t list “motorized carts” by name yet the spirit of equal access drives retailers to remove barriers wherever it’s readily achievable. In practice that often includes mobility aids, clear aisle access, accessible restrooms, and trained staff.

Other accessibility features you can expect

I’ve noticed a set of features across locations:

Accessible parking near the entrance with curb cuts and signage
Wide aisle width that accommodates scooters and wheelchairs
Clear pathways at the Entrance and Exit
Accessible restrooms with grab bars and space to maneuver
Ramps and elevators where needed
Doorways and checkout counters designed for reach and visibility
Signage with high contrast and simple language

Store layout choices matter. Good retail accessibility keeps your route open and your trip efficient. That’s true for scooters, manual wheelchairs, power chairs, and other mobility aids.

Inclusive shopping in practice

The goal isn’t just compliance. It’s comfort. I’ve seen team members walk guests through the Target app to set up Order Pickup or help them find shorter paths around busy aisles. When a cart battery dies, they swap in a new one or move you to a charged unit. Target’s accessibility approach ties right into staff training, safety protocols, and daily store operations.

Tips for a Smooth Shopping Experience with Mobility Aids at Target

Plan your visit

A little planning saves a lot of time:

Aim for off-peak hours like weekday mornings for better motorized cart availability
Make your list in the Target app and sort by aisle if your store supports it
Park in handicap parking spaces if you’re eligible and always leave your placard visible
Choose the entrance with easier access to carts if your store has two

Communicate what you need

It pays to speak up:

Ask Guest Services for a cart check as soon as you arrive
Let a team member know if you need help transferring or adjusting the seat
Tell them if you prefer a manual wheelchair or a different mobility aid
Point out any clutter or obstructions that make aisles hard to navigate

Backup plans that keep your trip on track

I keep a backup ready just in case:

If carts are busy, switch to Order Pickup for bulky items
Use Drive Up for heavy essentials like cat litter or beverages
Consider Shipt for big weekly hauls or if you’re recovering and should avoid long outings

A Quick Look Under the Hood: How Motorized Carts Work

You don’t need to be an engineer to drive a motorized cart. Still, I like understanding the basics because it explains why speed and turning radius feel the way they do. Most carts use an electric motor powered by a rechargeable battery. That battery feeds the motor which then turns the wheels through a gear system. The throttle adjusts how much power you send to the motor so you can creep along a crowded endcap or roll steadily down a long aisle.

Inside that motor you’ll find two key parts. The stator and rotor form the heart of the system. The stator stays put while the rotor spins. These parts rely on specialized steel layers called laminations that reduce energy loss and heat. If you’re curious about the materials, take a look at electrical steel laminations. Those laminations stabilize performance and improve efficiency.

The stator uses coils and steel stacks that guide magnetic fields. That’s where a stator core lamination comes in. The rotor mirrors that idea with its own layered steel structure. You can peek into that world through a quick primer on rotor core lamination. This isn’t trivia for trivia’s sake. Efficient motors deliver smoother acceleration, better low-speed control, and predictable stopping when you release the throttle. All of that matters in a busy store.

Frequently Asked Questions About Target’s Motorized Carts

Are motorized carts free to use at Target?

Yes, they’re free for guests who need mobility assistance. I’ve never seen a store charge for them.

Can I reserve a motorized cart in advance?

Generally no. They’re first come first served. If it’s a big shopping day, call your specific store ahead of time and ask when carts tend to be available. A quick call can save you a second trip.

Do all Target stores have motorized carts?

Most do. Store size and region can affect supply. I recommend calling your local Target to confirm motorized mobility scooters are on hand and to ask about current availability.

Where are the electric carts located in the store?

You’ll usually find them near the main entrance or vestibule and near the Guest Service desk. Look for charging stations along the front wall.

How do I get help using a motorized cart?

Ask any Target team member. They can help you adjust the seat, explain the controls, and check the battery indicator. You can also ask for assistance transferring from a personal device to the cart.

What is the weight limit for Target’s motorized carts?

You’ll find a sticker with weight limits on the unit. I’ve seen carts rated in the 300 to 500 pound range. This can vary by model so always check the cart you’re using.

How fast do Target’s motorized carts go?

Store scooters are tuned for indoor use. They move at walking speeds with simple speed controls to keep things safe in crowded aisles.

How do the brakes work on a Target cart?

Most carts stop when you release the throttle. Some include a brake lever for precise control. Take a second to test stopping before you head deeper into the store.

Can I bring my own electric scooter or power chair into Target?

Yes, you can. Target’s store policies on mobility devices allow personal mobility aids. Keep speeds low and follow the same safety etiquette as you would with a store cart.

What if the cart battery dies while I’m shopping?

Notify a team member immediately. They can swap you into a charged unit or help you check out. I’ve had staff meet me mid-aisle with a fresh cart when mine ran low.

What if all carts are taken or out of service?

Ask when the next one will be available. Consider a manual wheelchair if your store has one. You can also switch to Drive Up, Order Pickup, or Shipt for essentials.

Can I take the cart to the parking lot?

Policies vary by location. Many stores ask you to leave the cart inside the entrance. If you need help getting purchases to your car, ask Guest Services for assistance.

Do Target carts have a user guide?

Carts usually have simple labels and icons for on/off, forward and reverse, and speed. If it’s your first time, ask a team member for a quick walk-through. You’ll learn in a minute or two.

Who maintains the carts?

Store Maintenance staff handle routine charging and minor fixes. Larger repairs may go through vendors. If you notice a problem, report it to the store manager so they can log it and schedule service.

What’s the etiquette for using a motorized cart at Target?

Go slow, yield at intersections, and keep your basket within the weight limit. Park out of the way when you stop to browse. Be mindful in high-traffic areas like seasonal aisles and endcaps.

How do I find out if a specific Target has carts today?

Call your local store or check the store’s page on Target.com for contact details. Availability can change hour to hour. A quick call before you leave can save time.

Does Target offer staff assistance for shoppers with impaired mobility?

Yes. Team members can help locate items, push a standard cart, or fetch a motorized cart. If you need extra help, ask at Guest Services and explain what would make your trip easier.

Are there rules about using electric scooters in Target?

Keep speed low, stay in control, and follow store safety guidelines. If a team member asks you to adjust how you’re using the device for safety, follow their lead.

Does Target have other accessibility amenities?

Yes. Expect accessible parking, wide aisles, accessible restrooms, and trained staff. Many stores also have aisles with extra room for scooters and clear sightlines around endcaps to reduce blind turns.

Is there an “electric cart availability lookup” in the Target app?

Not at the moment. The app helps with Drive Up, Order Pickup, and store maps. For motorized cart availability, call the store ahead of your visit.

What should I do if a cart seems unsafe or damaged?

Stop using it and tell a team member. Point out the issue and ask for a different unit. Safety comes first and staff will take the cart out of service for inspection.

Conclusion: Comfortable, Independent, and Inclusive Shopping

I’ve done the long walk on a sore knee and I’ve cruised the aisles in a motorized cart. Independence matters. Target’s electric carts, wheelchair access, and trained staff make a big difference for seniors, guests with mobility challenges, and anyone navigating a temporary injury. Most stores keep carts near the entrance. They’re free to use. If one isn’t available, you still have backup options like Drive Up, Order Pickup, and Shipt that keep your trip simple.

Accessibility at Target isn’t a single feature. It’s the whole setup. From designated parking and accessible restrooms to wide aisles and helpful team members. If you have questions, call your local store before your visit. If something doesn’t work right, tell the store manager so they can fix it fast. I want your shopping to feel easy, not exhausting. With the right plan and a little help from the Target team, you’ll get what you need on your terms.

Key Takeaways and Practical Reminders