Can you imagine a world without wheels? The wheel was thought to be invented in the Copper Age, in the late Neolithic era, around 4500-300 BCE. What about the humble bag? In the most basic sense, cases with wheels combine the wheel with the bag. Bags without wheels have been known to exist since Ancient Egyptian times, with hieroglyphs depicting figures with bags tied around their waist. Here at Hofbauer, we’re going to take you through a journey through time as we bring to you our range of cases with wheels.

The History

The first salesmen sample cases, engineers tool cases or travel bags were made from either hessian, wool or linen, with leather later becoming a popular material for cases, offering a studier solution. The fabric would cover wooden suitcases in some cases, or otherwise formed collapsible suitcases. In general, throughout the history of the travel case, the materials used to manufacture them have reflected the time period, with metal, plastic and fibre composite later being used. As technological advancement changed transport over time, in turn our cases improved too.

Modern Cases

The first aluminium travel cases were known to come about in 1938, brought to the masses in 1950 with injection & blow moulded plastic cases such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) as well as lighter materials like polypropylene following in the 60’s & 70’s. At the same time, the option of wheels became widely available. At the turn of the 21st century, the first suitcases made of polycarbonate were made.

Cases with Wheels Now

Today most sturdy cases are made from copolymers which are resistant to damage plus a number of chemicals. For ease of maneuverability cases can be supplied with surface mounted wheels, semi-recessed wheels or castors and built in drag handles which fold back into the case.

Cases with Wheels at Hofbauer

Our complete range of cases with wheels includes the Flitebag range, the Peli range,Polybox, Themodyne containers, and one made specifically to carry wine. The Flitebag range (including Astro, Enduro MAX / Pro) are all made from recyclable material, but still provide a great strength. Our Peli cases include Peli Air (up to 40% lighter than other polymer cases), Peli Storm, and Peli Protector Cases. Whatever purposes you require a case with wheels for, whether a briefcase or a flight cases, there is sure to be something to suit you.