ᐅ KALLAX on casters is too tall for my niche – any tips?

Hello everyone,

I have the following issue: I own a KALLAX shelving unit that I fitted with casters to make it easier to move when needed. The problem is that with the casters, the shelf unit is now too tall for my niche in the apartment. The niche measures about 180 cm (71 inches) in height, while the KALLAX with casters is approximately 190 cm (75 inches) tall. So, the shelf does not fit.

However, I don’t want to give up the mobility provided by the casters or replace the shelf with a different one. Therefore, my main question is: Are there practical ways to lower the height of the KALLAX with casters a bit without significantly compromising stability or functionality?

Possible approaches could include using different casters, modifying the casters themselves, or perhaps cutting or adjusting the shelving structure. What are proven solutions in practice? Are there any tips or recommendations on what to watch out for?

I look forward to your advice and experiences!

To reduce the height of a KALLAX shelving unit with casters, there are several options. First, check whether the current casters can be replaced with lower-profile alternatives. IKEA usually offers casters with a height between 5 and 10 cm (2 and 4 inches), but there are also casters with less build height available from third-party suppliers.

It is important that the new casters provide sufficient load capacity to maintain stability. Alternatively, you can unscrew the casters and place the shelving unit directly on the floor. While this contradicts the desire for mobility, it increases stability and reduces the height by approximately 8-10 cm (3-4 inches).

Another possibility is to cut off the legs of the shelving unit at the bottom; however, caution is advised here, as the KALLAX is structurally reinforced at these points.

In addition to Fitigu, I would recommend determining the exact dimensions of the casters. Often, the height is mainly influenced by the type of casters used. Switching to furniture glides (without casters) could save a significant amount of height, and you might also consider using low-profile movable furniture feet.

Another option is to look for casters at a hardware store or online that have a lower overall height. Especially for the KALLAX, make sure the casters can support at least 20 kg (44 lbs) per caster to maintain stability.

Replace the casters with flatter furniture glides. After that, you should also compensate for any floor unevenness to ensure the shelf remains stable.

Thanks for the advice so far.

Would you recommend using lower-profile casters or leaving the casters off entirely and placing the shelf on furniture feet? I’m concerned it might wobble when stationary.

Additionally, I’m considering whether it’s possible to ignore the lower holes of the KALLAX shelf and position the structure a bit closer to the floor. How stable would that be? Are there any experiences with this? I don’t want to damage the shelf in any way.

Bimarion schrieb:
Would you recommend using lower-profile casters or leaving them out entirely and placing the shelf on furniture feet?

From a stability perspective and considering the height, furniture glides are usually the better option. Casters significantly increase the overall height. Furniture glides can slightly raise the shelf but offer less mobility.

Bimarion schrieb:
Additionally, I am wondering if it’s possible to ignore the lower holes and position the construction closer to the floor.

The lower holes are primarily intended for attaching casters. The shelf itself is generally designed to bear loads with casters installed. If you cut off the feet, you will lose stability. It’s best to stick to the existing mounting points; otherwise, you risk instability, especially for shelves the size of KALLAX units.