Abstract: A hand truck with a lifting mechanism has a frame having a handle portion, and a load-carrying portion. An axle is supported by the frame and has wheels rotatably mounted to opposed ends of the axle. An extendible member is pivotally mounted to the axle. The extendible member comprises a housing and an extendible portion that extends from the housing. The extendible portion has an engagement end, the engagement end retracting within an outer perimeter of the wheels in a retracted position, and extending outward to engage a ground surface. In the extended position, the extendible member has a length that is greater than a diameter of the wheels. A control mechanism selectively extends and retracts the extendible portion.