Simple: secure them properly.  

Cables move around in wire mesh basket trays during installation if not fastened at regular intervals.  

Without proper restraint, they can shift, tangle, or sag, making your neat installation look like a spaghetti junction.  

Nobody wants that. Whether routing data, power, or fibre cables, stability is key for safety, aesthetics, and long-term performance. 

Let's look at how to keep those cables behaving from day one. 
 

Why is cable movement a problem 

Loose cables aren't just an eyesore. They can: 

This leads to unnecessary wear on the insulation. 

Make future maintenance a nightmare. 

Cause signal interference if data and power cables get too close 

Fail to comply with industry standards. 

Plus, if they move during pull-through, they might not stay where your tray bends and risers are, creating pinch points or unsupported sections. 

The best ways to keep cables from moving 

Use cable ties (correctly!) 

Secure your cables at regular intervals using cable ties. Velcro ties are ideal for data cables as they're gentle on sheathing and easy to adjust. Opt for stainless steel cable ties for extra grip for heavier-duty setups or vertical drops. 

Spacing tip: Tie every 300mm to 500mm horizontally, even closer for vertical runs. 

Add cable tray dividers. 

If you're mixing cable types or want neat separation, tray dividers are a game changer. They help route different circuits cleanly and stop heavier cables from dragging lighter ones around. 
 

Install tray covers 

Using cable tray covers helps keep cables in place and protected, especially in ceiling voids or external runs where airflow, dust, or curious rodents might interfere. 

Bonus: tray covers make your installation look seriously professional. 

Fit bends and risers properly. 

Use the correct tray bends and risers on corners, junctions, or vertical sections. These ensure cables follow the tray's natural path and aren't left dangling mid-air like they've lost their way. 

Use the right tray finish for your environment. 

Galvanised wire mesh tray works great indoors, but for harsher environments (think food production, outdoor installations, or corrosive atmospheres), go with a stainless steel or powder-coated cable tray. A stable tray is happy and less likely to warp or flex under cable movement. 

Keep your cable containment solid. 

To sum it up: stop movement before it starts. Secure your cables, use the correct cable support solutions, and install your tray system thoughtfully. 

A tray is like a motorway. You wouldn't expect cars to stay in lane without markings and barriers, so why expect your cables to? 
 

FAQs 

What type of cable tie is best for wire cable basket installs? 

Velcro ties are best for data cables, as they don't compress the cable sheath. For heavy-duty or industrial installs, stainless steel ties offer better strength. 

How far apart should I secure cables in a wire mesh basket tray? 

Typically, every 300mm to 500mm. For vertical sections or heavier cable loads, go tighter. 

Do tray covers help with cable movement? 

Yes, they prevent movement and protect cables from external interference, debris and mechanical damage. 

Can I use plastic cable trays instead of wire mesh basket trays? 

Plastic trays are generally used for light-duty or non-industrial installs. For strength, airflow, and long-term durability, galvanised or stainless steel cable trays are preferable. 

What's the advantage of using tray dividers? 

Dividers help separate different cable types, reduce crosstalk in data cabling, and stop heavier cables from shifting lighter ones around. 

 
 

Final thoughts 

Whether you're running Cat6, power, or fibre, cable movement is avoidable with proper planning and the right containment strategy. The better the cable routing and support system, the longer your installation will last and the less your cables wander off mid-job. 

If in doubt, think like a cable: you wouldn't want to be left hanging either.