What Determines Caster Prices?
Two casters of the same diameter can differ in price several times over. The difference comes from the materials, the load they carry and how long they last. The main factors are:
- Wheel material: Polypropylene (PP) and hard plastic wheels are the most economical. Thermoplastic and rubber treads sit in the middle. Polyurethane treads, stainless steel and heat-resistant materials cost more, but protect the floor and last longer.
- Diameter and load capacity: The larger the diameter and capacity, the more material goes into both wheel and housing.
- Bearing type: Plain bearings are economical; ball bearings cost more but push more easily and last longer under heavy use.
- Housing: Light pressed steel, heavy plate steel, cast or stainless steel housings change the price directly. The housing also decides how much load and impact the caster can take.
- Brake and fitting: Casters with brakes cost more than plain swivel casters. Rigid casters are usually the most economical option.
- Quantity: Unit prices fall with volume. Companies that buy regularly can be priced on their annual requirement.
- Raw materials and exchange rates: Plastic, steel and rubber prices follow commodity and currency markets, so caster prices are updated from time to time.
Is a cheap caster always cheap?
A caster that is under-rated or wrong for the floor wears out quickly, damages the floor and makes the cart harder to push. Once replacement labour and downtime are added, the saving on the first purchase disappears fast. See our how to choose casters checklist for the right choice.
What to send for a fast, accurate quote
- The caster code or a photo (another brand's code is fine; we will find the equivalent)
- Quantity
- Swivel, swivel with brake or rigid
- If unknown: load per caster and floor type
We quote standard catalogue casters the same day. Request a quote →