A removable deck for a convertible hand truck need not be removed when the hand truck is converted between upright and recumbent positions. The deck includes a pair of guide slots separating a pair of lateral flanges from a central handle. The slots and central handle are configured to receive the handle of a hand truck when the truck is converted to a four-wheeled cart. The deck perimeter includes an upstanding lip positioned inboard of the slots, flanges and central handle portion. Sets of retaining strap guides secure the panel to the hand truck and tie-down apertures are provided for securing cargo to the deck. The guide slots and center handle cooperate to retain the hand truck handle in place when the hand truck is in its four-wheeled position without use of additional fasteners to prevent disengagement.