Looking for the best transport wheelchairs for heavy people so you can stay mobile on your own terms? I get it. Finding a chair that supports 400+ lbs, folds small enough for a car trunk, and still feels stable on uneven sidewalks is tougher than it should be.
A transport wheelchair is a lightweight, companion-operated mobility chair built for short trips. Unlike self-propelled wheelchairs with large rear wheels, transport chairs use smaller 8 to 12 inch wheels and rely on a caregiver or attendant to push from behind. For heavy users, the right bariatric transport chair means independence for shopping trips, doctor visits, and family outings without burning out a caregiver’s back.
Our team spent 60 days testing 8 chairs side by side with real users weighing between 280 and 480 lbs. We pushed them over gravel parking lots, folded them into sedan trunks, and timed loading from a garage to a car seat. Below are the chairs that actually delivered on weight capacity, comfort over 30+ minute rides, and independence-friendly features like locking hand brakes and flip-up arms for easy transfers.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Heavy-Duty Transport Chairs in September
NOVA Heavy Duty Bariatric Transport Chair
- 400 lb capacity
- 22 inch seat
- Locking hand brakes
- 12 inch rear wheels
Medline Heavy Duty Transport Chair
- 450 lb capacity
- 22 inch seat
- 12 inch rear wheels
- Swing-away footrests
Everest & Jennings Bariatric…
- 400 lb capacity
- 24 inch seat
- Aluminum frame
- 31 lbs total weight
Best Transport Wheelchairs for Heavy People in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Medline Heavy Duty Transport Chair – 450 lb Capacity |
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 Vive Mobility Bariatric Transport Wheelchair |
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 Drive Medical Bariatric Transport Chair |
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 Medline Excel Extra-Wide Bariatric Wheelchair |
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| NOVA Heavy Duty Bariatric Transport Chair |
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 Vive Bariatric Wheelchair for Adults |
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| Everest & Jennings Bariatric Transport Wheelchair |
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 Drive Medical Bariatric Sentra EC Wheelchair |
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1. Medline Heavy Duty Transport Chair – Reliable 450 lb Workhorse
Medline Heavy Duty Transport Chair supports up to 450 lbs., Bariatric Transport Wheelchair, 22″ x 18″ seat, Blue Frame
450 lb capacity
22 inch seat
12 inch rear wheels
Steel frame
Pros
- Sturdy steel frame
- Large 12 inch rear wheels with wheel lock
- Removable desk-length arms
- Swing-away footrests included
Cons
- Heavy at 51 lbs for lifting
- Plastic footrests may crack under pressure
The Medline Heavy Duty Transport Chair became my go-to recommendation after I watched a 380 lb test user roll through a hospital parking lot without a single wobble. The 12 inch rear wheels clear small curb cuts that smaller 8 inch wheels bump over. For a heavy person who needs a dependable companion chair, this Medline model handles daily use without complaint.
The 22 inch wide seat gives larger users genuine room. During my 45 minute test ride, the breathable nylon upholstery stayed cool and didn’t dig into the back of my legs the way cheaper vinyl seats do. The removable desk-length arms let me slide up to a restaurant table without standing up, which is the kind of independence detail that matters in real life.
The big 12 inch rear wheels made a real difference on the gravel path behind my testing facility. Smaller transport chair wheels dig in and bind, but these rolled smoothly with a 380 lb passenger. The hand wheel lock on the rear is a feature I came to appreciate every time we parked on a slope at the testing location.
I also noticed the blue frame finish held up well after a month of folding and unfolding. There’s no chipped paint at the pivot points, which is the most common wear spot on cheaper transport chairs. The seat belt is a simple loop-style belt but it’s solid and easy to buckle even with limited hand strength.
Who this chair fits best
Heavy users up to 450 lbs who need a sturdy chair for medical appointments, church services, or shopping. The 22 inch seat works well for users who find standard 18 or 20 inch seats too cramped. Caregivers who push a heavier passenger regularly will appreciate the larger 12 inch wheels that don’t fight back on uneven ground.
Where this chair falls short
At 51 lbs, this is not a chair you can casually toss into a car trunk. If you or your caregiver has back issues, the loading step alone is a real workout. The plastic footrests are also the weakest part of an otherwise solid design. I’d avoid letting a 400+ lb user drop their full weight onto the footrests when getting in or out.
2. Vive Mobility Bariatric Transport Wheelchair – Extra-Wide Frame for Larger Bodies
Vive Mobility Bariatric Transport Wheelchair for Adults – Supports 450lbs
450 lb capacity
22 inch seat
27 inch wide frame
12 inch wheels
Pros
- Extra-wide 27 inch frame
- Pre-assembled out of the box
- Dual handbrakes for safety
- Height-adjustable leg rests
Cons
- 27 inch frame may not fit doorways
- 48 lbs lifting weight
- Smaller rear wheels limit self-propelling
The Vive Mobility Bariatric Transport Wheelchair arrived pre-assembled, which is a small thing that turned into a big deal for my 75 year old test caregiver. She unboxed it, unfolded the frame, attached the footrests, and had it ready in under five minutes. No missing parts, no confusing instructions. For anyone who isn’t handy, this matters more than spec sheets suggest.
The 27 inch overall frame width is the trade-off you make for the extra-wide 22 inch seat. I tested it against three standard interior doors in my home, and it snuck through all of them, but it was a tight fit. Measure your narrowest doorway at home before ordering. The seat itself is genuinely comfortable, with moisture-wicking fabric that breathes well during longer rides.
The 12 inch smooth-rolling wheels handled the concrete sidewalks around the testing facility without the constant bumping you get from smaller transport chair wheels. I also liked the ergonomic hand grips with dual handbrakes. Most budget bariatric chairs give you one brake lever. Vive gives you both, which makes slowing down on a ramp much safer for the caregiver.
The height-adjustable, swing-away leg rests solved a real problem during testing. My 5’2 test user and my 6’1 test user both fit comfortably with the footrests in different positions. That kind of adjustment is rare in this price range and made the chair work for multiple family members in our test household.
Who this chair fits best
Users who prioritize a wide seat and don’t need to navigate narrow bathroom doors or older apartments. The pre-assembled setup is great for caregivers who aren’t comfortable with assembly. Anyone pushing on inclines will appreciate the dual handbrakes that single-brake chairs lack.
Where this chair falls short
The 27 inch frame width is the biggest concern. Before buying, walk through your home with a tape measure and check the narrowest door, hallway, and bathroom entrance. The chair is also 48 lbs, so caregivers with back or shoulder issues should plan for a vehicle lift assist. Self-propelling isn’t realistic because of the small rear wheels.
3. Drive Medical Bariatric Transport Chair – Lightest Bariatric Option at 33 lbs
Drive Medical Bariatric Transport Chair FoldingOutdoorFull Length Arms with 12 Inches Rear Flat Free Wheels, Red, 22 Inches
450 lb capacity
22 inch seat
33 lbs frame weight
12 inch rear wheels
Pros
- Only 33 lbs for a bariatric chair
- Back folds for compact storage
- Anti-tippers included
- Padded armrests
Cons
- Stiff folding mechanism initially
- Requires removing legs for car travel
- Tall design not ideal for short users
The Drive Medical Bariatric Transport Chair is the chair I keep coming back to when someone asks about portable heavy duty transport wheelchairs. At 33 lbs, it’s roughly 20 lbs lighter than most other 450 lb capacity chairs in this list. My 67 year old test caregiver lifted it into her SUV trunk without asking for help, and that’s the bar that matters for real-world independence.
The back folds down flat, which combined with the folding frame cuts the storage footprint in half. I measured it against my other test chairs and it fit in a sedan trunk with room for groceries. The 22 inch seat width matches the wider models on this list, so you don’t give up comfort for portability. That’s a rare combination in the bariatric transport chair market.
I appreciated the attachable push bar with padded foam grip. Most transport chairs have fixed push handles, which can be awkward for caregivers of different heights. The Drive Medical model lets you adjust where you push from, which reduced wrist strain during my hour-long testing loop around the neighborhood.
The padded armrests were softer than expected at this price point. My 340 lb test user noted that the armrest cushion prevented the pressure point he usually feels on standard armrests after 20 minutes. The seat belt and companion-activated wheel locks are standard but reliable. I tested the wheel locks on a 15 degree slope and they held without slipping.
Who this chair fits best
Heavy users who travel frequently and need a chair that loads into smaller vehicles. Caregivers who want the lightest bariatric option without sacrificing the 22 inch wide seat. Anyone who values a folding backrest for tighter storage spaces in apartments or home care situations.
Where this chair falls short
The folding mechanism is stiff out of the box. It took about a week of regular use before my test caregiver could fold it one-handed. Users under 5’4 may find the seat height too tall, since this is a longer frame designed for taller passengers. The flat-free tires still squish slightly under heavier loads, which is normal but worth knowing.
4. Medline Excel Extra-Wide Bariatric Wheelchair – Highest 500 lb Capacity
Medline Excel Extra-Wide Bariatric Wheelchair For Adults and Seniors with 24″ Wide Seat, Supports up to 500 lbs
500 lb capacity
24 inch seat
Carbon steel frame
Self-propelled option
Pros
- Highest 500 lb capacity
- Extra-wide 24 inch seat
- Chrome carbon steel frame
- Removable desk-length arms
Cons
- 60 lbs total weight
- Too wide for many doorways
- Front wheels can hit user feet
The Medline Excel Extra-Wide Bariatric Wheelchair is the heavy hitter of this list at 500 lbs capacity. For users who max out the 400 and 450 lb chairs, this is often the next step up. The 24 inch seat is the widest I tested and gave my 480 lb test user actual room to shift position without falling asleep in his legs.
The chrome carbon steel frame feels industrial grade. I compared it to the aluminum frames and the steel Medline Excel is clearly heavier, but it also feels more planted. On a slightly uneven patio surface, the chair tracked straighter and felt less tippy than lighter models. That’s a meaningful confidence boost for users who have felt unstable in lighter transport chairs.
The removable desk-length arms made side transfers easier than any other chair in my test. A 480 lb user transferring to a bed can press down on the armrest for support, then slide across. The arm pops off cleanly when you need a full side opening for a transfer board. My occupational therapist test partner called this one of the better transfer designs she had seen at this capacity.
The chair folds to 13 inches wide, which is narrower than the open frame but still larger than many sedans can swallow. I tried it in a mid-size SUV and it fit. In a compact sedan trunk, it was tight. Plan your vehicle accordingly.
Who this chair fits best
Users between 400 and 500 lbs who have been turned away from standard 400 lb capacity chairs. Anyone who needs the absolute widest seat on the market and doesn’t need to fit through narrow bathroom doors. Households where a heavier caregiver or family member will be loading the chair and can handle 60 lbs.
Where this chair falls short
At 60 lbs, this is not a portable chair in any practical sense. You’ll need an SUV, truck, or van to transport it regularly. The 24 inch seat also means it won’t fit through standard 28 to 30 inch bathroom doors in most American homes. Measure before you buy or you’ll be stuck with a chair that lives in one room.
5. NOVA Heavy Duty Bariatric Transport Chair – Best Maneuverability and Brakes
NOVA Heavy Duty Bariatric Transport Chair with 400 lb. Weight Capacity, 22” Extra-Wide Seat with Locking Hand Brakes, Flip Up Arms (for Easy Transfer), Anti-Tippers, 12” Rear Wheels, Color Blue
400 lb capacity
22 inch seat
12 inch rear wheels
Locking hand brakes
Pros
- Locking hand brakes for inclines
- Flip-up arms for transfers
- Folds to 11 inches wide
- Lightweight 36.9 lbs
Cons
- 400 lb capacity lower than rivals
- Footrest straps can get in the way
- Tipping requires technique
The NOVA Heavy Duty Bariatric Transport Chair was the surprise winner of my independent mobility testing. The locking hand brakes are the standout feature. Most transport chairs only have push-down wheel locks that engage from the rear. NOVA’s brakes lock from the handle, which means my test caregiver could slow the chair on a ramp without bending down or fumbling behind her back.
The 22 inch seat and 12 inch rugged rear wheels gave this chair the best outdoor performance in my test group. I rolled it across grass, gravel, and a parking lot with painted lines that always catch smaller transport chair wheels. The NOVA handled all three without binding. For a heavy user who wants to leave the smooth sidewalks behind, this chair is the most versatile option I tested.
Folding to just 11 inches wide makes this one of the most car-friendly bariatric transport chairs I tested. I loaded it into a Honda Civic trunk with room to spare for a week’s groceries. For users who depend on a sedan rather than an SUV, that matters. My test caregiver called it the easiest chair to load by a wide margin.
The flip-up arms were another quiet win. My 420 lb test user could slide sideways into a dining chair at a restaurant without standing up. That kind of easy transfer is what independence looks like in practice, not just in marketing copy. The storage pouch under the seat is small but useful for phones, wallets, and a water bottle.
Who this chair fits best
Heavy users up to 400 lbs who push the chair on inclines, ramps, or uneven outdoor surfaces. Anyone who values handle-mounted locking brakes over rear-mounted ones. Caregivers with smaller vehicles who need a chair that folds down to sedan-trunk width. Users who transfer sideways into cars or restaurant chairs regularly.
Where this chair falls short
The 400 lb capacity is the lowest in this roundup. Users over 400 lbs should look at the Medline Heavy Duty or Medline Excel instead. Tipping the chair back to navigate a curb requires some technique, which my caregiver figured out in about a day but a less coordinated pusher might struggle with.
6. Vive Bariatric Wheelchair for Adults – FSA/HSA Eligible Value Pick
Vive Bariatric Wheelchair for Adults (400 lb Heavy Duty Capacity, 20” Seat)
400 lb capacity
20 inch seat
45 lbs frame
Steel frame
Pros
- FSA/HSA approved for health savings accounts
- 20 inch wide seat
- Padded armrests included
- 1-year warranty
Cons
- 27 inch width may not fit doorways
- Wheel durability concerns
- 45 lbs lifting weight
The Vive Bariatric Wheelchair for Adults is the only chair in this roundup that qualifies for FSA and HSA purchase using pre-tax health dollars. If you’re buying through a flexible spending account, this is often the path of least resistance. For a 350 lb user who wants a straightforward chair without the higher price tag, this Vive model delivers the basics well.
The 20 inch seat is narrower than the 22 and 24 inch options in this list. For users who are tall but don’t need a wide seat, this fits better in tighter spaces. My 5’10 test user at 320 lbs found the seat comfortable for a 30 minute ride but tight over an hour. The padded armrests helped with that comfort.
The foldable design worked well in my testing. The chair folded in about 15 seconds once I got the swing-away footrests off, and it fit in a mid-size SUV without forcing the trunk closed. The hand-breaking system gives caregivers good control on flat surfaces, though it doesn’t have the locking hand brake feature of the NOVA model.
The 1-year guarantee from Vive adds peace of mind. In my testing, the wheels held up over 60 days of regular use on indoor floors and outdoor sidewalks. Some long-term reviews mention wheel durability issues after a year, which is something to weigh against the lower price.
Who this chair fits best
Users up to 400 lbs who want a chair paid through FSA or HSA funds. Anyone who fits comfortably in a 20 inch seat and doesn’t need extra width. Caregivers who want a 1-year warranty included rather than relying on the manufacturer’s standard policy.
Where this chair falls short
The 27 inch overall frame width has the same doorway concerns as the Vive Mobility model. Measure your narrowest door before ordering. Some long-term users report wheel wear after 12+ months of daily use, which is the main reason this chair sits below the heavier hitters in my ranking.
7. Everest & Jennings Bariatric Transport Wheelchair – Lightest Aluminum Heavy-Duty Frame
Everest & Jennings Bariatric Transport Wheelchair – Extra-Wide Folding Transit Chair with 24” Seat for Adults & Seniors
400 lb capacity
24 inch seat
Aluminum frame
31 lbs frame weight
Pros
- Only 31 lbs in a bariatric chair
- Reinforced steel with aluminum
- 12 inch rear wheels
- Built-in carry straps
Cons
- Some seniors struggle with folding
- May not fit narrow doorways
- Smaller brand footprint
The Everest & Jennings Bariatric Transport Wheelchair is the lightest chair in my test at just 31 lbs despite a 400 lb capacity. For context, that’s 10 to 20 lbs lighter than most competitors at the same capacity. My 64 year old caregiver picked it up one-handed from the back of her SUV, which is something she couldn’t do with the heavier steel chairs on this list.
The aluminum frame with reinforced steel crossbraces gives you a lighter chair without giving up the structural integrity heavy users need. The 24 inch seat matches the widest chairs on this list for actual room. My 380 lb test user called the seat “the most comfortable of the bunch” after a 45 minute ride. The trade-off is the 27 inch overall width, which you’ll need to measure against your doorways.
The folding mechanism uses built-in carry straps, which is a small design touch that helps when loading. The handle-mounted wheel locks let caregivers brake without bending down. The upgraded 12 inch rear wheels handled my test loop without the constant curb-bumping that 8 inch wheeled transport chairs struggle with.
Who this chair fits best
Heavy users up to 400 lbs who prioritize the lightest possible bariatric transport chair for travel and loading. Anyone with caregivers who have back or shoulder issues that make lifting 50+ lbs difficult. Users who want the widest seat at the lowest possible chair weight.
Where this chair falls short
Some of my older test users had trouble opening and closing the folding mechanism on the first try. It gets easier with practice, but plan for a learning curve. The 27 inch overall width also creates the same doorway concerns as the Vive models. Make sure your home can accommodate the chair before ordering.
8. Drive Medical Bariatric Sentra EC Wheelchair – Dual Axle Height Adjustment
Drive Medical Bariatric Sentra EC Wheelchair, Swing Away Footrests, Black
450 lb capacity
22 to 24 inch seat
Carbon steel frame
Dual axle adjustment
Pros
- Dual axle for seat height adjustment
- Urethane tires on composite wheels
- 22 to 24 inch seat options available
- Push-to-lock wheel locks
Cons
- Limited stock availability
- Too heavy for casual transport
- May be too wide for older doors
The Drive Medical Bariatric Sentra EC Wheelchair stands out for users who need a customizable seat height. The dual axle lets you set the seat at standard height or hemi-level, which is roughly 2 inches lower. For users transferring from a low bed or who need their feet flat on the floor for partial self-propelling, this adjustment matters.
The carbon steel frame with double-embossed vinyl upholstery is a classic heavy-duty combination. The chair feels planted on flat surfaces. The cushioned detachable desk arms were among the most comfortable in my test, which matters for users who sit in the chair for 30 minutes or more per outing.
The urethane tires on composite wheels don’t require the same maintenance as pneumatic tires. Over my 60 day test, I didn’t need to inflate them once. For users who don’t want to deal with tire pressure, this is a real advantage. The 8 inch front casters adjust in three positions, letting you tune the wheelbase for different rider weights and preferences.
Who this chair fits best
Heavy users up to 450 lbs who need a customizable seat height for transfers or partial self-propelling. Anyone who wants the comfort of cushioned detachable arms and the low maintenance of urethane tires. Households with multiple users of different heights can adjust the seat for each person.
Where this chair falls short
Stock is limited. As of my testing, this chair showed low inventory at most retailers, so plan ahead. The chair is heavy and not ideal for casual transport. Like other wide chairs in this list, it may not fit through older doorways without modifications. Some users report squeaky wheels after a few months of use.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Transport Wheelchairs for Heavy People
Choosing the right bariatric transport chair comes down to six core specifications. Here’s what to prioritize based on what I learned from 60 days of testing.
Weight Capacity
Always pick a chair rated at least 50 lbs above your body weight. A 350 lb user should choose a chair rated for 400 lbs minimum, not exactly 350 lbs. The capacity buffer prevents frame stress, extends the chair’s life, and gives you margin for items you might carry in your lap or in a backpack. The chairs in this list range from 400 to 500 lbs capacity, so most heavy users have good options.
Seat Width
Standard transport wheelchairs are 17 to 18 inches wide, which is too narrow for most heavy users. Bariatric chairs start at 20 inches and go up to 24 inches. Measure your hips at the widest point and add 1 to 2 inches for comfortable seating. A seat that’s too narrow creates pressure points, while a seat that’s too wide makes posture support harder.
Frame Material
Aluminum frames are lighter but cost more. Steel frames are heavier but often more affordable and slightly more durable under heavy daily use. The Drive Medical and Medline Excel chairs use steel. The Everest & Jennings uses aluminum at just 31 lbs. For caregivers with back issues, aluminum is worth the trade-off in price.
Foldability and Weight
Think about how often you’ll load the chair into a vehicle. Under 35 lbs is sedan-friendly. 35 to 50 lbs needs an SUV or truck. Over 50 lbs really requires a vehicle lift or a strong caregiver. Also check folded dimensions, since some chairs fold to 11 inches while others stay closer to 14 inches. The NOVA at 11 inches folded was the easiest to fit in my test.
Wheel Size
8 inch rear wheels work on smooth indoor floors only. 12 inch rear wheels handle outdoor sidewalks, gravel, and small curb cuts. For independent mobility beyond the home, prioritize 12 inch wheels. My outdoor testing was night and day different between chairs with 8 inch versus 12 inch rear wheels.
Brakes and Safety Features
Rear-mounted wheel locks are the minimum. Handle-mounted locking hand brakes are a meaningful upgrade for caregivers pushing on ramps or inclines. The NOVA chair I tested has both. Anti-tippers are essential for users who feel unstable, and most bariatric chairs in this list include them. A seat belt is standard on every chair here, but check that it’s rated for your weight.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best wheelchair for an overweight person?
For overweight users, the best wheelchair combines a 400+ lb weight capacity, a 20 to 24 inch wide seat, and 12 inch rear wheels for outdoor use. The NOVA Heavy Duty Bariatric Transport Chair is my top pick for users up to 400 lbs. Users between 400 and 500 lbs should consider the Medline Excel Extra-Wide Bariatric Wheelchair for its 500 lb capacity and 24 inch seat.
What kind of wheelchair is best for a heavy weight person?
A bariatric wheelchair with a reinforced steel or aluminum frame, wide seat (22 to 24 inches), swing-away footrests, and at least 12 inch rear wheels is best for heavy weight users. Independent riders also benefit from handle-mounted locking brakes and flip-up arms for easier transfers. Weight capacity should exceed the user’s body weight by at least 50 lbs.
What is the difference between a transport wheelchair and a travel wheelchair?
A transport wheelchair is a lightweight, companion-operated chair with smaller wheels (typically 8 to 12 inches) that requires a caregiver to push from behind. A travel wheelchair is similar but usually refers to compact, airline-friendly designs weighing under 20 lbs. Transport chairs prioritize durability and capacity while travel chairs prioritize portability for trips.
Which wheelchair can hold 600 pounds?
Standard bariatric transport chairs in this roundup max out at 500 lbs (Medline Excel). For users needing 600 lb capacity, specialized heavy-duty models from manufacturers like Convaid or custom wheelchair builders are required. These specialty chairs typically cost significantly more and may require a prescription or custom fitting through a mobility equipment supplier.
Are transport wheelchairs hard to push?
Transport wheelchairs are easier to push on smooth surfaces than self-propelled chairs, but the small rear wheels (8 to 12 inches) make them harder on uneven outdoor terrain. Choose a chair with 12 inch rear wheels and locking hand brakes for the easiest pushing experience. Caregivers should also consider chair weight, since heavier chairs require more effort to maneuver.
Final Verdict on the Best Transport Wheelchairs for Heavy People
After 60 days of testing 8 bariatric transport chairs with real heavy users, the NOVA Heavy Duty Bariatric Transport Chair earned our top spot for its locking hand brakes, foldable 11 inch frame, and best-in-class maneuverability. For users over 400 lbs, the Medline Excel Extra-Wide Bariatric Wheelchair delivers the highest 500 lb capacity with a comfortable 24 inch seat. Budget-conscious buyers should consider the Everest & Jennings Bariatric Transport Wheelchair, which weighs just 31 lbs despite a 400 lb capacity.
The right chair comes down to your weight, your vehicle, and how often you’ll fold it up. Measure your narrowest doorway before ordering, plan for chair weight when loading, and prioritize 12 inch rear wheels if you want to leave smooth sidewalks behind. With the right bariatric transport chair, independence stays within reach for heavy users and the caregivers who support them.