Abstract: The invention provides a load-distributing platform transport apparatus comprising a housing, a platform disposed in the housing and movable in the first direction, a capstan rotatably mounted to the housing and an endless cable guidably coupled to the housing and wound about the capstan to move therewith. The cable is configured to have four segments generally parallel and movable in the same direction simultaneously, the platform being fastened to each of the four segments. Means for rotating the capstan, such as an electric motor, are provided. When the capstan is rotated, it translates the endless cable such that each of the four segments moves in a desired direction thereby moving the platform. By providing an endless cable to which the platform is attached at four separate points, no part of the platform can move in a particular direction without the remaining points of attachment also moving.