Thrulos Wagon

The design of these wagons was one of the first projects organised by the Thrulos group of merchants. The intention was to create a standard design that would be easy to repair and maintain in wagon yards across The Empire. It was also hoped that it would make it easier for the wagon drivers as they wouldn't take as long to get used to a new wagon if it mostly had the same characteristics.
In keeping with the Better part of the Thrulos motto, the group consulted the wagon drivers about what would make their lives easier on long journeys. While it could not be claimed that all of the ideas were used, there were some elements of the design that came directly from these discussions.
Just about every part of the wagon's designed was evalualted based on cost, easy of replacement, protection of cargo, and at least a little consideration of driver comfort. This was not a quick process as ideas were collected from across the group, but a few years after the idea was first proposed the first of the years rolled out of the yard.

After much debate about loads, costs, and difficulty of driving it was decided that the wagons should be sized for a two horse team

The wagons had high sides and were shielded from rain with a high frame covered in canvas. This cover extended over the driver to give them a bit of cover as well. The gate on the back of the wagon could be sealed with a padlock and had additional internal catches and chains that would stop it falling down too quickly if the load shifted and was pressing on it.

As many of the drivers slept under their wagons when travelling, boxes were fitted to the underside which contained rolled ranvas. This could be pulled down and pegged to the ground to provide additional protection from wind and rain. Separate compartments were also built to hold cooking gear and supplies, making it easier to keep them separate from the cargo.

The extra compartments nearly brought the wagons to an end as more than a few drivers tried using them to smuggle high value or illegal items

The Thrulos group was an association of merchants who operated in The Empire during the Third Age. They came together to try to find ways to reduce their costs and outdo the competition without having to make large individual investments. Their motto was Better, Faster, Cheaper.
An agreement drawn up between the members of Thrulos allowed them to make use of each other's yards in different towns across the empire. This simplified logistics and made getting repairs easier for all of them, much to the envy of their competitors.