This application describes systems, devices, computer readable media, and methods for the function and operation of robotic carts. A robotic cart may include a base component configured for the receipt of a payload, a battery unit, and a mobility apparatus. The robotic cart may include a handlebar component coupled with the base component. The handlebar unit may include a sensor unit configured to transmit a hand detection message when the handlebar unit is grasped by one or more hands and to transmit a force direction message indicating a two-dimensional direction associated with a directional force applied by one or more hands. The robotic cart may be configured to map the area around it and to autonomously move the robotic cart along a path to perform a task.