G&J Logistics Bolton Chair vs TransitFlow Portering Chair – An Honest Comparison

In this article, we compare the TransitFlow Portering Chair with the Bolton Portering Chair from G & J Logistics, taking a deep dive into their differences, similarities, and pros & cons. Hopefully, this will help you get a good understanding of the chairs and help you make your decision.

Comparison Table

What is the G&J Bolton Porter Chair?

The Bolton Porter Chair is a basic, stable portering chair from G&J Logistics. Popular in A&E departments and maternity wards, the Bolton is fitted with basic features such as fixed arms and a flip-up wooden footrest. 

Pros of the Bolton

• Simple construction – The simple, robust design of the Bolton Chair means there are fewer things to go wrong with it, and maintenance is likely to be simple. 
• Full width, tip-up footboard – To facilitate easy patient transfers. 
• Document holder as standard – A handy feature, allowing the storage of any notes and patient records.

Cons of the Bolton

• Outdated design – Some discerning customers don’t appreciate the outdated look of the Bolton chair, making them go with more modern-looking options like the TransitFlow or Stryker chairs
• Small rear wheels – At 200mm, the fixed castors are smaller than the TransitFlow’s, which can make the chair harder for porters to push, particularly when pushing heavier patients. 
• Upright seat – The seat angle is rather upright on the Bolton, which some patients may find uncomfortable, particularly if they are being pushed over long distances. 
• Independent braking – Each of the rear wheels on the Bolton has its own brake, making braking the chair slower when compared to a chair with dual braking, such as the TransitFlow
• Limited options – There are no options for adding a cylinder holder or anti-theft features to the Bolton chair.

Is there a bariatric version of the Bolton Chair?

No, there is no bariatric version of the Bolton Portering Chair available.

What options are available for the Bolton Chair?

• Drop-down arms
• Adjustable or telescopic leg rests
• Lap & Diagonal Seat Belt

What is the TransitFlow Portering Chair?

Designed for hospital use, the TransitFlow Portering Chair blends modern design with robust functionality and enables patients to be transported safely and comfortably in situations where a patient stretcher is unnecessary.

Pros of the TransitFlow Chair

• Modern & attractive design – The attractive design of the TransitFlow will bring a touch of modernity to your hospital
• Folding armrests – This feature allows side access and easy transfers for patients, porters, and nursing staff, and the folding design is easier and quicker to use compared to drop-down rests 
• Sliding footrest – The auto-locking sliding footrest is an easier alternative to folding footrests and is designed to be stood on without the chair tipping, allowing easy transfers.
• Large rear wheels – 300mm rear wheels allow the chair to be more easily pushed compared to chairs with small wheels and castors.
• Integrated document and belongings holders
• Nesting feature – Encourages tidy storage and maximises storage space.
• Integrated bumpers – To protect the chair from dents or scratches in the event of a collision.

Cons of the TransitFlow Chair

• IV Pole isn’t fixed – This could lead to the IV pole going missing or being displaced easily. There is an option of purchasing the TransitFlow with a fixed IV pole to remedy this issue.

Is there a bariatric version of the TransitFlow Portering Chair?

Yes, the TransitFlow Bariatric has a safe working load of 250kg.

What options are available for the TransitFlow Portering Chair?

• IV pole (removable or fixed)
• Anti-static system
• Anti-theft system
• Accessory basket
• Cylinder holder
• Leg rest
• Coin lock (for coin or specific token)
• Wall fixation
• Bag hooks

Which portering chair should you choose?

Which chair you decide to go for will depend on your specific needs and requirements, but hopefully, this article has served to explain some of the key differences between each portering chair and educate you as to what to look for.  Ultimately the best judge for this is you though, and there’s no better way to form a judgement than to try the equipment in your hospital.

Felgains are exclusive suppliers of the TransitFlow Portering Chair, and we offer the option for you to trial it in your hospital – please get in touch with us to arrange. 

Related articles

A complete comparison of the most popular hospital Portering Chairs of 2024

How much does the TransitFlow Portering Chair cost?

4 Tips To Avoid Porter Injury When Moving Hospital Beds And Stretchers

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