Abstract: Textile yarn package supporting carriers are disclosed for use in textile dyeing machines to enable the machine to be effectively operated at less than full capacity. Each carrier has a base with multiple upstanding package supporting posts each having a longitudinal package supporting portion extending upwardly from the base and dimensioned to securely support a predetermined maximum number of packages on each post. A cap mounts to the spindle portion of each post for movement therealong into engagement with the outermost package on the post. The cap has a latching arrangement with a latch plate disposed to be selectively movable between a disengaged or release position wherein the latch plate does not impede relatively free sliding movement of the cap along the post and a second engaged position wherein the latch plate is braced against the post to prevent sliding movement of the cap along the post.