Walmart reinstates eight-bin carts and returns to pulling them for online orders

Walmart reversed a policy introduced earlier this year that capped the number of bins on online order fulfillment carts, ordering staff in at least three states to return to eight-bin loads. Workers are now instructed to pull carts when they can see ahead, rather than push them, after a summer trial that aimed to improve safety and efficiency. Employees reported that the earlier pulling rule caused shoulder, wrist and ankle strains, and some were warned of possible transfers if they could not comply.

The retailer said it had swapped wheels on some carts to aid pulling and that its safety standards, requiring clear visibility and cart control, have not changed. The adjustment coincides with new express curbside pickup options and faster delivery promises as holiday shopping ramps up. State occupational health and safety boards have received multiple complaints about the carts, and investigations are underway.