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Introduction
Warehouse theft, unauthorized access, and workplace accidents drain businesses of billions each year. The National Retail Federation reports that inventory shrinkage alone reached $112.1 billion in FY 2022, representing 1.6% of total retail sales. Meanwhile, the Bureau of Labor Statistics recorded 4.8 injuries per 100 full-time workers in the warehousing sector in 2024. Security cages serve as a front-line physical barrier that addresses all three challenges simultaneously—protecting high-value assets, controlling access, and creating safer work environments.
Getting the selection wrong has real consequences. Wrong wire gauge? You risk break-ins and insurance denials. Wrong configuration? Expect costly reinstallation when layouts change. Wrong vendor? Extended lead times and weak support will follow.
This guide covers 10 vetted options, evaluated on build quality, certifications, configurability, and suitability for warehouse-scale deployments.
TL;DR
- Security cages create locked, visible enclosures that restrict access to high-value inventory, tools, hazardous materials, or sensitive equipment
- Choose based on wire gauge, panel height, lock type, UL Listed/ANSI certifications, and fire-suppression compatibility
- Top types: welded wire mesh cages, driver/access control cages, pallet rack enclosures, and machine guarding systems
- 10-gauge wire is standard for general security; 6-gauge recommended for high-value or pharmaceutical storage
- Source Equipment Company (est. 1989) provides specialist support by phone or email and nationwide 48-hour shipping on most configurations
What Are Warehouse Security Cages?
Warehouse security cages are modular, lockable enclosures made from welded or woven wire mesh panels that physically restrict access, protect inventory, and separate hazardous or high-value zones.
Unlike solid-wall rooms, wire mesh allows visibility, airflow, and fire-suppression system access through the open mesh — a meaningful advantage for both compliance and safety.
Four primary use cases dominate warehousing, manufacturing, and distribution environments:
- Driver/visitor access control at dock areas and restricted zones
- High-value inventory and tool crib storage requiring theft prevention
- DEA-compliant pharmaceutical or chemical storage meeting federal regulations
- Machine/robotic guarding perimeters for OSHA-compliant safety barriers
The transition from traditional lock-and-key rooms or open shelving to wire mesh cages is increasingly driven by OSHA safety requirements, insurance mandates, and the need for scalable, reconfigurable layouts. Each option below is evaluated on configuration flexibility, compliance fit, and how well it holds up in real warehouse environments.
10 Best Security Cages for Warehouses
Each entry below was evaluated on build quality, wire gauge and material specs, lock and access options, compliance certifications, configurability, and fit for warehouse-scale deployments. The first nine entries cover manufacturers and their product lines; the tenth — Source Equipment Company — functions as a supplier and consultant that can spec and ship most of these systems.
FordLogan Uni-Mesh Wire Partition Cages
FordLogan is one of the most widely used wire partition brands in North American warehousing, known for its standardized panel system and broad distributor network. The Uni-Mesh design ensures consistent diamond-pattern mesh throughout every panel.
Key differentiators:
- 10-gauge triple-crimped steel wire woven into a 1½" diamond pattern
- Bolt-together modular panels for field assembly without welding
- Direct compatibility with standard pallet rack configurations
- Available through major distributors nationwide
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Wire Gauge / Construction | 10-gauge triple-crimped steel wire, 1½" diamond mesh pattern |
| Panel Heights & Configurations | 7', 8', and 10' heights; 2- to 4-sided options; roof panels available |
| Lock & Access Options | Key lock, padlock hasp, hinged doors, hinged-dutch doors, bi-parting hinged doors, sliding doors with tamper-resistant receivers, service windows |
SpaceGuard BeastWire® Security Cages
SpaceGuard Products offers the BeastWire® line designed for heavy-duty industrial and warehouse environments with emphasis on strength and fast deployment. The system is engineered for facilities requiring robust protection without sacrificing visibility.
Key differentiators:
- 10-gauge welded wire panels with a 6-gauge option for maximum security
- Powder-coat finish for corrosion resistance
- Quick-Ship program: standard components ship within 3-5 business days
- Forklift access configurations available
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Wire Gauge / Construction | 10-gauge welded wire in 2" square mesh; heavy-duty 6-gauge option available |
| Lead Time / Ship Program | Quick-Ship: 3-5 business days for standard components; custom orders require additional time |
| Certifications / Standards | Division 10 Architectural Specification 10 22 13; ANSI B11.19; RIA TR R15.406-2014 compliant |
Wirecrafters Wire Partition Systems
Wirecrafters is a U.S.-based manufacturer with decades of experience producing wire partition and security cage systems for warehousing, distribution, and industrial facilities. Their Style 840 system is an industry standard.
Key differentiators:
- Weld-lock panel construction with 10-gauge steel wire in a 2" x 1" rectangular mesh
- Full-height and partial-height configurations
- Wide door selection including bi-fold, sliding, and vertical rise styles
- DEA-compliant configurations for controlled substance storage
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Panel Construction | 10-gauge steel wire welded to 1-1/4" x 1-1/4" x 1/8" steel angle frame; bolt-together modular using 3/8" mounting hardware |
| Door & Access Options | Hinged, double-hinged, sliding, vertical rise doors; self-closing/self-locking options for DEA compliance |
| Specialty Applications | DEA-compliant cages for Schedule III-V controlled substances; pharmaceutical storage; evidence lockers |
SpaceGuard RageWire® Modular Security Cages
RageWire® is SpaceGuard's frameless machine guarding line suited for automation, robotic guarding, and general warehouse security enclosures requiring frequent reconfiguration. It's a distinct product from BeastWire, designed specifically for dynamic environments.
Key differentiators:
- 5-component system with pivot posts that rotate 160° for flexible corner configurations
- Lightweight frameless panels designed for easy repositioning
- Purpose-built for automated and robotic cell perimeter guarding
- Compatible with other SpaceGuard components for hybrid builds
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Assembly Method | 5-component system with pivot posts; rapid assembly without traditional framing |
| Primary Use Cases | Robotic cell guarding, automation perimeters, machine guarding, reconfigurable warehouse security |
| Panel Size Range | Standard 5-foot panel widths; heights of 6', 7', and 8' |
Folding Guard Security Cages
Folding Guard (now part of Troax Group) is a longstanding U.S. manufacturer of industrial wire partitions and security enclosures. Their Saf-T-Fence and Wov-N-Wire lines offer a wide product range spanning light to heavy-duty applications.
Key differentiators:
- Broad SKU library covering standard and custom sizes
- Stacked panel options reaching ceiling height (7', 8', 10', 12' standard post heights)
- Rack-mount compatibility for integration with existing storage infrastructure
- Consistent quality across high-volume orders
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Size Customization | Standard heights 7-12 feet; custom heights available; panel stacking to reach structural ceiling |
| Weight Capacity / Durability | 10-gauge woven wire; 14-gauge steel C-channel posts for structural integrity |
| Pricing Tier | Mid-range pricing; competitive with WireCrafters and SpaceGuard for standard configurations |
Lyon Workspace Wire Mesh Security Cages
Lyon Workspace Products offers wire mesh cage enclosures commonly specified for tool crib, parts storage, and high-value inventory protection in manufacturing and distribution settings. Their focus is on fully welded ventilated cabinets rather than large-scale partition walls.
Key differentiators:
- Heavy-duty welded construction using 13-gauge steel expanded metal doors
- Integrated shelving and bin options for organized parts storage inside the cage
- 3-point latch systems accepting user-provided padlocks
- K-brace reinforcement for freestanding stability
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Construction Type | Fully welded ventilated cabinets; 13-gauge steel expanded metal doors |
| Interior Accessory Options | Built-in shelving, bin storage, organized parts storage systems |
| Lock Options | 3-point latch systems; accepts standard padlocks; key lock options available |
Husky Rack & Wire Security Partitions
Husky Rack & Wire specializes in wire mesh partition systems and pallet rack safety products, frequently used in high-throughput distribution and fulfillment center environments. Their systems integrate directly with existing racking infrastructure.
Key differentiators:
- Compatible with major pallet rack brands (teardrop and slotted uprights)
- Rack-supported cage configurations that maximize vertical space utilization
- 8-gauge welded wire or 10-gauge woven wire panel options
- Straightforward field assembly with minimal tools
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Rack Compatibility | Teardrop (Invincible line), double-slotted (Lynx line), Keystone (Reliable) upright styles |
| Panel Gauge Options | 8-gauge welded wire (2" x 2" mesh); 10-gauge woven wire (1.5" diamond mesh) |
| Typical Applications | Rack-supported cages, pallet rack backing, dock security, inventory protection on existing racks |
California Wire Products (Cawire) Security Cages
California Wire Products has manufactured wire mesh security cages, partitions, and lockers since 1948, with domestic U.S. fabrication for industrial, commercial, and data center applications. Their emphasis is on custom fabrication and material variety.
Key differentiators:
- 10-gauge woven wire (2" square mesh) welded to angle iron frames
- Wide material selection: galvanized, vinyl-coated, and stainless steel mesh
- Custom fabrication using 3D design tools for complex configurations
- Suited for sensitive environments including data centers and pharmaceutical storage
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Material Options | Galvanized steel, vinyl-coated wire, stainless steel mesh for corrosive or clean-room environments |
| Compliance / Standards | Heavy-duty construction suitable for high-security applications; custom specs available |
| Custom Fabrication | Consolidated turnaround times; 3D design tools for complex configurations |
AmCo Wire Products (Armor Wire) Security Cages
AmCo is primarily known for heavy-duty wire shelving under the Amco II line, with capacities up to 1,000 lbs per shelf. The company holds GSA contracting records, making it a viable option for federal and government facility procurement.
Key differentiators:
- Heavy-duty wire shelving systems with industrial-grade construction
- GSA-compliant systems for government and federal facility procurement
- Federal contracting capability through SAM.gov registration
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Max Wire Gauge Available | Heavy-duty wire shelving with industrial-grade construction; specific partition gauge specs require verification |
| Specialty Compliance | GSA-compliant systems for government facilities; SAM.gov registered for federal contracting |
| Custom Build Lead Time | Standard and custom lead times vary; contact AmCo directly for partition configurations |
Source Equipment Company Security Cage Solutions
Source Equipment Company (est. 1989, Leominster, MA) is a nationwide supplier and consultant for warehouse security cage systems. With over 35 years in industrial material handling, they specialize in matching the right cage type to facility layout, inventory requirements, and workflow patterns.
Key differentiators: comprehensive facility analysis before recommending a cage system, modular and adjustable cage inventory that scales with business growth, 48-hour shipping for most popular sizes from Massachusetts, patented hook and drive pin design enabling 5x faster installation, and direct expert consultation (no guesswork purchasing).
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Certifications | UL Listed and ANSI Compliant products; OSHA 29 CFR 1910, RMI certification; expert verification of compliance for specific applications |
| Service Model | Consultation-first approach: space analysis, inventory requirements review, workflow assessment, and custom engineering before specifying a cage system |
| Shipping & Support | Nationwide 48-hour shipping for popular sizes from Leominster, MA; 100% U.S. sourced steel; contact at 1-800-743-5545 for quotes |
How We Chose the Best Security Cages for Warehouses
Most buyers focus on price and overlook three factors that directly affect insurance coverage and regulatory standing: wire gauge (cut/break resistance), panel height (OSHA compliance), and certification status. Getting these wrong costs far more than the cage itself.
We evaluated each option using five critical factors:
1. Wire Gauge and Construction Quality
Lower gauge numbers mean thicker, stronger wire. 10-gauge handles general inventory protection; 6- to 8-gauge is required for high-value, pharmaceutical, or DEA-regulated storage — and directly affects both break-in resistance and insurance approval.
2. Modular Flexibility and Reconfigurability
Modular systems reduce relocation costs when warehouse layouts change. Bolt-together panels, frameless designs, and field-modifiable configurations allow expansion without replacing entire systems.
3. Lock/Access Control Compatibility
Self-closing/self-locking doors are required for DEA compliance. Swing doors work for general access; sliding doors accommodate forklift traffic. Electronic locks enable audit trails for high-security applications.
4. Industry Certifications
OSHA 29 CFR 1910.217 mandates fixed barrier guards prevent operator entry. DEA 21 CFR 1301.72 requires 10-gauge wire, self-closing doors, and zero floor/ceiling gaps. ANSI B11.19 provides performance criteria for machine guarding.
5. Vendor Support, Lead Time, and Post-Sale Service
Quick-ship programs (3-5 days) minimize downtime. Custom fabrication capabilities address unique layouts. Expert consultation ensures the right specification from the start.
Beyond these five factors, fire-suppression compatibility deserves a separate check before you buy. Open-top or mesh-top designs allow sprinkler access and typically satisfy NFPA requirements without requiring separate in-cage sprinkler heads. Confirm with your local fire marshal either way.
Conclusion
The right warehouse security cage reduces theft exposure, supports OSHA compliance, and creates a safer, more organized facility. The best choice is always the one sized, configured, and certified for your specific application.
Evaluate three factors before finalizing any purchase:
- Scalability: Can panels be added as the facility grows? Modular systems reduce long-term costs.
- Total cost of ownership: Factor in installation, reconfiguration, and replacement parts, not only upfront price.
- Compliance fit: Does it meet DEA, ANSI, or local fire codes for the intended use? Non-compliance voids insurance and invites fines.
Getting those three factors right from the start saves time, money, and headaches down the line.
Source Equipment Company has helped warehouses, distribution centers, and manufacturers nationwide select and configure the right security cage systems since 1989. Reach out at 1-800-743-5545 or visit sourceequipment.com for a free consultation and quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a wire mesh security cage and a wire mesh partition?
Partitions divide open floor space into zones (not fully enclosed), while security cages are fully enclosed lockable structures on all sides and typically the top. Cages are the preferred choice when restricting access is the primary goal rather than simply separating areas.
How much does a warehouse security cage typically cost?
Pricing ranges from approximately $625 for a single 4' x 7' hinged door panel to over $6,000 for a complete 20' x 20' x 8' security room with roof. Cost is driven by square footage, wire gauge, door count, lock type, and whether a roof panel is included.
Are warehouse security cages OSHA compliant?
OSHA does not mandate a single cage standard, but cages used for machine guarding must meet OSHA 1910.217 and ANSI B11.19 standards. DEA-compliant drug storage cages must follow DEA 21 CFR Part 1301.
Can security cages be installed without drilling into the floor?
Most modular wire cage systems offer both floor-anchored and free-standing configurations. Free-standing options are preferred in leased facilities or where floor penetration is restricted. However, anchoring is always recommended for taller or high-security installations.
What wire gauge is best for a high-security warehouse cage?
Lower gauge numbers indicate thicker, stronger wire. 10-gauge is standard for general inventory protection, while 6- to 8-gauge is recommended for high-value, pharmaceutical, or DEA-regulated storage applications. 6-gauge offers significantly higher break resistance but costs approximately 30% more.
How do I determine the right size security cage for my warehouse?
Start with these three steps:
- Calculate the square footage of the items or zone to be secured
- Add clearance for access aisles and forklift entry if needed
- Confirm ceiling height for panel stacking
Consult with a material handling specialist like Source Equipment Company at 1-800-743-5545 for a customized recommendation.
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