Nova Medical Foldable Lightweight Transport Chair With Removable Wheels

The Nova 377 Lightweight Transport Chair is built around one standout feature — quick-release rear wheels that remove completely, making this the most compact transport chair in Nova's line when packed for travel. At 18.5 lbs with a 19" seat, padded desk-length arms, swing-away footrests, and locking rear wheels, it covers all the essentials. 250 lb capacity. HCPCS E1038. FSA eligible.

Nova 377 Lightweight Transport Chair with Quick-Release Removable Wheels — 19"

The Nova 377 is designed for users and caregivers who travel. Its defining feature — quick-release rear wheels that detach completely without tools — makes it the most packable transport chair in Nova's lineup. With wheels removed, the chair fits into tight storage spaces that folding alone won't solve: airline overhead bins, behind vehicle seats, small car trunks, and checked luggage cases purpose-built for transport chairs.

At 18.5 lbs the 377 is one of the lightest options in the range. The padded desk-length arms allow the user to roll directly up to a table or desk surface, and the quick-release fold-down back allows the frame to collapse in seconds. Swing-away footrests with non-skid foot plates and a seat belt are included as standard.

Note: The Nova 377 has a 250 lb weight capacity — lower than the 300 lb capacity of other Nova transport chairs. Confirm the user's weight before ordering.

Key Features

• Quick-release removable rear wheels — detach completely without tools for maximum compact storage
• 18.5 lbs — among the lightest transport chairs in Nova's lineup
• 19" seat with padded nylon upholstery — reinforced for durability
• Padded desk-length fixed arms — roll directly up to tables and desks
• Quick-release fold-down back — folds flat in seconds
• Swing-away footrests with non-skid foot plates — adjustable 5"–9" from floor
• 8" locking rear wheels (rear wheel locks / parking brakes)
• Seat belt included
• Folded dimensions: 9.25"W × 29.5"H × 23.25"D
• 250 lb weight capacity
• HCPCS E1038 — may qualify for Medicare, Medicaid, or insurance coverage
• FSA eligible

Nova 377 vs. Nova Ultra Lightweight (379) — Travel Chair Comparison

Who Is the Nova 377 Best For?

• Frequent travelers who check the chair at airports or pack it in a travel case
• Users who need the absolute most compact storage — wheels-off fits where nothing else will
• Caregivers who transport the chair in small vehicles where folded width is still too wide
• Users at or under 250 lbs who prioritize packability over maximum capacity
• Anyone who needs HCPCS E1038 coverage for a travel-oriented transport chair

How to Size the Nova 377 Transport Chair

1. Confirm Weight Capacity First

   The Nova 377 supports up to 250 lbs — lower than the 300 lb capacity of most other Nova transport chairs. This is the first and most important sizing check. If the user's weight exceeds 250 lbs, the Nova Ultra Lightweight (379) at 300 lbs or the Nova 329 at 300 lbs are better options.

2. Measure Hip Width

   Measure the widest point across both hips while seated. Add 1"–2" clearance. The 377 has 17.5" between the arms — suitable for users with hip widths up to approximately 15.5". For users with wider frames, the Nova 329 (19" seat) or Nova 332 HD (22" seat) provide more room.

3. Measure Seat-to-Floor Height

   Measure from the back of the knee to the floor while seated with feet flat. The 377 seat height is 19.75". Footrests adjust from 5"–9" from the floor to accommodate different leg lengths.

4. Assess Travel and Storage Needs

   The 377's removable wheels are its primary advantage for travel. With wheels removed, the chair packs into a much smaller footprint — ideal for airline carry-on cases designed for transport chairs, behind vehicle seats, and tight storage. If wheel removal isn't a priority, the Ultra Lightweight (379) folds slightly more compactly with wheels on and offers a higher 300 lb capacity.

5. Check Surface Requirements

   The 377 has 8" rear wheels and no hand brakes — best suited for smooth indoor flooring and paved outdoor surfaces. For inclines, uneven terrain, or outdoor-primary use, the Comet 330 or Nova 352 with 12" wheels and hand brakes are more appropriate.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do the quick-release wheels work?

The 377's rear wheels use a quick-release axle mechanism — the same system common on performance wheelchairs. A button or lever on the axle hub releases the wheel, allowing it to slide off without tools in seconds. Reattachment is equally fast — slide the wheel onto the axle and it clicks or locks into position. This allows the chair to be packed into its smallest possible footprint for airline travel, vehicle storage, or cases where even the folded chair is too wide.

Why is the weight capacity 250 lbs instead of 300 lbs?

The 250 lb capacity reflects the lighter frame construction optimized for minimum weight and packability. The quick-release wheel mechanism and overall frame geometry are engineered to minimize weight, which involves a trade-off in rated capacity versus heavier-framed chairs. Users at or under 250 lbs are well served; users between 250 and 300 lbs should consider the Nova Ultra Lightweight (379) which offers 300 lb capacity at nearly the same weight.

Can I take this chair on an airplane?

Yes — the Nova 377 is one of the most airline-friendly transport chairs available. Most airlines allow passengers to check a manual wheelchair at no charge. With wheels removed the chair packs into a significantly smaller case. Gate-check is also an option at no cost on most domestic and international carriers — request wheelchair assistance and gate-check when checking in. Always confirm airline-specific wheelchair policies before travel.

Does removing the wheels affect stability when in use?

Wheels are only removed for storage and transport — never while the chair is in use. When reassembled for use, the quick-release axles lock the wheels securely in place. The chair should be tested on a flat surface after reassembly to confirm both wheels are fully locked before seating the user.

Does this chair have hand brakes?

No. The 377 has locking rear wheel locks (parking brakes) but no caregiver hand brakes on the push handles. For use primarily on flat, smooth surfaces this is sufficient. For inclines, ramps, or outdoor terrain where active braking during movement is needed, the Nova 352 (12" wheels, hand brakes, flip-up arms) or Comet 330 (12" wheels, hand brakes) are better suited.

What HCPCS code applies and can insurance cover this?

The Nova 377 uses HCPCS E1038 — the standard transport wheelchair billing code. Medicare Part B, Medicaid, and most private insurers recognize E1038 with physician prescription and medical necessity documentation. FSA and HSA funds can be used to purchase directly. Contact your insurer with code E1038 to verify your plan's specific coverage terms.