It’s no secret: custom medical carts are a big investment. However, you’re paying for what you put into them. When you want something unique that doesn’t currently exist, you can expect to pay a little extra to build the cart of your dreams. You shouldn’t ever have to compromise on your ideal design, but we understand that you are still aiming for a specific budget. To help you reach that goal budget, we’ve put together a list of factors that will have a significant impact on the cost of your custom medical cart.

Balance Aesthetics

Keep in mind that high-end aesthetics will drive up the cost of a custom medical cart. If you’re worried about staying within a certain price range, here are a few common aesthetic features that affect your custom medical cart budget:

Colson Group

Colson Group offers a wide selection of caster options under their corporate umbrella. We’ve been utilizing the Medcaster brand as well as the Sheperd Casters. Their casters have their own unique style and are a great option for your medical carts.

Learn more about Colson Group:

Colson Group website: http://colsongroupusa.com/

• MedCaster Website: http://colsongroupusa.com/brand/medcaster/
• Shepherd Caster Website: http://shepherdcasters.com/

STEINCO

We’ve found that STEINCO’s casters are typically a favorite amongst industrial designers. Designers like the polished appearance, and are happy to plan around STEINCO’s regular lead times and costs to pick those casters for their medical carts.

Learn more about STEINCO: 

STEINCO website: https://www.steinco.de/en/products/castors-and-wheels/

TENTE Casters, Inc.

TENTE casters have a very recognizable appearance, so some customers prefer these style options for their custom carts. They compete with both companies with similar costs, quality, and lead times.

Learn more about TENTE Casters, Inc.:

TENTE Casters, Inc. website: https://products.tente.com/us-en/products?p=1

Other Consideration for Choosing Casters

Overall, there are a few things to look out for when choosing a caster. Each company has multiple options, so pay close attention to the following:

Caster Options

• Do you want a dual wheel or single wheel casters?
• Do you want the caster to attach to the cart through a threaded stem, grip ring, or a top plate with bolts? (If the customers will have to assemble casters on the cart after it ships, consider which option will be easiest for assembly.)
• Do you want to add cable pushers? (Cable pushers can be added to casters to move cables out of the way, so the cart doesn’t run them over.)
• Pay attention to the different brake options, appearance, and ease of use. (Make sure end users will be able to easily apply and access the brakes.)

Caster Colors

Each supplier has standard color options for their casters like gray, white, or black. These suppliers have other color scheme options too, depending on the company. If you are planning to produce lower cart volumes, you’ll want to pick a caster company that already offers the colors you are looking for.

If you have large volumes, each company offers the opportunity to customize your caster’s color, thread, cable pushers, etc. You’ll just have to purchase large orders and expect a longer lead time (about 10-12 weeks).

How can HUI Help with Your Casters and Custom Cart?

If you choose to work with HUI to develop your Medical Cart, we have casters samples on hand that we can show you during the discovery meeting. It gives you the opportunity to understand size, look, feel, and functionality of the different caster options. Our project manager can also help you determine the most cost effective option for your solution by providing you with some ballpark pricing.

At HUI, we’re always looking into ways to offer cost reductions depending on your preferences. Over the years, we’ve learned where to look without compromising the quality, and the cart’s casters have always been a good place to start.

If you’d like to learn more about casters, or need help with your custom medical cart project, please contact us today!