Abstract: A new and improved shopping cart release system is disclosed for use in collecting, transporting, removing and loading various types of carts and carriers. A release system is adapted for use with carts of the type configured for materials handling and a vehicle such as a semi-truck trailer used to transport such carts. The release system includes and a ramp that physically engages with a cart so as to retain the cart within the semi-trailer. An automated remote system may also be used, enabling an operator to release a cart without having to manipulate the release system directly. The release system is located within the floor of the semi-trailer. The release system can also be used in other arrangement, for example, within a liftgate mechanism that has the release system incorporated within the loading ramp of the liftgate. The release system utilized in the liftgate operates in the same manner as that of the release system incorporated within the floor of the bed of a semi-trailer truck.