In the mean time, while you're stuck carrying your stuff, I'd consider -
Buy a banger with some MOT/Tax left.
Or..You could do what a lot of metal detecting enthusiasts do (my anorak hobby) and make a harness, that goes around your shoulders and chest, with a hook for the ladder. An old strap from a large sports bag or a couple of wide soft belts can be used.
Or..Get a cart
..........Seriously though, you'll get noticed, and it's like a community old school feel going round with your cart, I bet it'd get you more customers (if you needed them that is) You'll be noticed across the whole area, and you could turn it positive by writing a press release to send to the local paper or just contact them and ask about a story - " ENVIRONMENTALLY CONCIOUS ENTREPRENEUR KEEPING IT SIMPLE WITH ZERO CARBON FOOTPRINT " The green concious would love it !