How to Build Your Own Canoe & Kayak Cart

Canoe or kayak carts make it easier to move boats to and from vehicles and into and out of water. Many canoes and kayaks weigh a lot, and for many boaters, using a cart is the only way to maneuver a boat alone. There are several carts available on the market for moving canoes and kayaks, but it is possible to construct a cart from some easily obtained materials.

Things You'll Need

  • Empty plastic milk crate
  • Drill and bits (3/4" and 1/8")
  • 1/2 " metal rod
  • 1" PVC pipe caps
  • 1/2" fender washers
  • Retaining clips
  • Saw
  • Self stick foam pipe wrap
  • Tires (pneumatic or solid)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Locate the center point along the plastic support strip on the lower side of the milk crate without hand holds. Drill a 3/4 inch hole and repeat for the opposite side.

    • 2

      Determine the center point of both PVC pipe end caps and drill a 3/4" hole. These will be used as spacers for the wheels.

    • 3

      Mark a center point on both ends of the metal rod about 1 inch from the ends. Drill a 1/8" hole at each end which will allow a retaining clip to be inserted.

    • 4

      Insert the rod through the holes drilled in the bottom of the milk crate. Place a PVC end cap on both ends with the solid end facing out.

    • 5

      Slide fender washers on both ends next to the PVC caps and put wheels on both sides. Complete the wheel assembly with a fender washer on the outside of both wheels and secure with retaining clips.

    • 6

      Remove a v shaped section above the handles on both sides of the crate. Apply foam pipe wrap to the top of the crate and down into the v shaped cut.