Caster Configuration - How to Configure Your Cart!

September 10, 2020

There's not just one way to place or configure casters onto a cart or other object. Depending on the object's weight, directions of movement, and tilt, different placements can be used to maximize the casters' effectiveness and minimize the effect on your wallet!

Below are some common caster configurations you can use to roll your cart most effectively!

6-Wheel Tilt or Non-Tilt

This cart configuration is recommended for extra long trucks and heavy loads.

The casters on the corners provide stability, while the casters in the center are the pivoting point. This allows the cart to turn in its own length.

6 wheel tilt or non tilt configuration: 4 swivel casters on the corners, 2 rigid casters in the middle along the longer edge

4-Wheel Caster Steer

This is one of the most popular caster configuration. It consists of 2 straight/rigid casters and 2 swivel casters that can easily be steered in a desired direction.

Great for long distance straight lines!

4-wheel caster steer configuration: 2 swivel casters on the front corners, 2 rigid casters on the back corners

4-Wheel Non-Tilt

This configuration contains 4 swivel caster and can be maneuvered in any direction.

Great for confined areas, not recommended for long distances in a straight line unless you have a swivel lock caster.

4-wheel non-tilt configuration: all four corners have swivel casters

4-Wheel Diamond Pattern, All Rigid Casters

This 4 rigid caster configuration is a more cost effective design, great for lighter loads.

Pivoting on the center wheels, this configuration is unable to be pushed sideways and can tilt.

4-wheel rigid diamond configuration: 4 rigid casters, placed on the middle of the cart sides instead of on the corners

4-Wheel Diamond Pattern with Swivel Casters

This configuration consists of two rigid casters in the center and two swivel casters at both ends.

The diamond configuration makes the cart highly maneuverable and will allow it to rotate in its own length.

4-wheel diamond with swivels configuration: 2 rigid and 2 swivel casters, placed on the middle of the cart sides instead of on the corners. Rigid are placed on the long edges and swivels are placed on the short edges

Final Thoughts

There is no shortage of ways that a caster can be placed, but placing them in a way that is both more efficient (and cheaper!) can be difficult. Using these configurations will allow you to make better decisions when making your purchases.

If you have any questions or need help picking out casters or their configuration, feel free to contact the Mapp Caster team or give us a call at 800-345-0425 (Mon-Fri 7:00am - 4:30pm CST)!

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