It's amazing what a difference this cart has made in the short time I've owned it. I can pull loads up carpeted stairs and even slate stairs, both with bull nozing extending the treads out from the risers- which is the key to this design. The cart won't make anything lighter, but it will make it easier. Speaking of light, the cart feels like it weighs next to nothing. That is nice when putting it away and/or retrieving it, and it also minimizes the load you have to move. The down side is that it moves very easily when heavy loads are leaned up against it, so keep that in mind. I use a ratcheting strap to secure loads to mine as bungee cords fail to hold heavy/large loads in place very well. All in all, this is not only a back saver/life saver but it's just fun to use. I have a heavy duty hand truck with pneumatic tires but it has a narrow shovel end and is heavy, making the bullnose negotiations that much more painful. This design is worth every penny. Trust me.