When your business utilizes hand trucks and dollies to perform daily operations, heavy-duty casters with locking capabilities are a must for safety and ease of use. Here’s what you should know about locking casters and maintenance so your hardware is effective and stands the test of time. 

A Guide to Locking Casters

When Should Casters Be Locked?

Locking casters feature a special latch or mechanism that allows the user to stop the wheels from spinning. Usually, these locks can be engaged easily by pressing your foot on one.

As a general rule of thumb, any time your hand truck, dolly, or furniture casters are in a stationary position, get into the habit of locking them. This will avoid surprise movements that can cause injury or enough jostling to drop or damage items in transport.

Locking casters should always be engaged when your device is in a fixed position, whether you’re in the middle of a project or it’s stowed in a storage closet. 

What Does Maintenance Entail?

To ensure caster wheels and locking mechanisms can function properly, make a habit of applying lubrication as needed. This will help with performance and reduce the risk of malfunction or distracting squeaking noises when you go about your tasks.

In addition to tending to your casters, keep your floors clean and free of dust, debris, moisture, chemicals, and other hazards that can get caught in your casters and damage them. When you notice a faulty lock, a loose wheel, or performance issues that hinder your ability to transport and lock your equipment into a stationary position, prioritize immediate repairs or replacement. 

If you’re looking for hand trucks and mobility solutions that feature locking casters, Casters, Wheels and Industrial Handling is your one-stop-shop for quality products. Based in the heart of New York City, these specialists have been selling top-notch pieces ideal for heavy-duty usage in industrial, medical, or manufacturing settings since 1959. To request a quote for your specific needs, call today at (631) 650-0500. To browse their online inventory and learn more about their two showrooms, visit their website.