A security cages provides a cost-effective way to secure valuable inventory, restrict access to sensitive areas, and comply with regulatory requirements — without the expense of building permanent walls. Whether you need a small tool cage, a large warehouse partition, or a DEA-compliant drug storage room, wire mesh security cages deliver visibility, ventilation, and protection.

Types of Security Cages

Wire Mesh Partitions

The most common type. Welded wire mesh panels mounted in steel frames create secure enclosures of any size. Available in standard 8′ and 10′ heights with single or double doors. Provides excellent visibility and airflow.

Chain Link Cages

Woven chain link fabric on a steel frame. Lower cost than wire mesh, good for large-area partitioning. Common in warehouses, tenant storage, and parking garages.

DEA Drug Storage Cages

Heavy-gauge cages meeting DEA 21 CFR 1301.71-76 requirements for controlled substance storage. Feature reinforced mesh, multi-point locking, and tamper-resistant hardware. Required for pharmacies, hospitals, and drug distributors.

Server Room and Data Center Cages

Wire mesh enclosures for IT equipment in shared data centers. Provide physical security for individual tenants while maintaining airflow for cooling. Often include access control integration.

Evidence and Weapons Storage Cages

Heavy-duty cages for law enforcement. Evidence cages include pass-through windows and chain-of-custody tracking integration. Weapons cages add gun rack systems inside the secured area.

Security Cage Materials

Material	Security Level	Cost	Best For
Welded Wire Mesh (10-ga)	Good	$$	General warehouse, tool cribs
Welded Wire Mesh (6-ga)	High	$$$	DEA, evidence, high-value storage
Woven Chain Link	Moderate	$	Large partitions, tenant storage
Expanded Metal	Very High	$$$-$$$$	Maximum security, no-climb areas
Solid Panels (lower section)	Visual privacy	$$-$$$	Evidence rooms, sensitive storage

Sizing Your Security Cage

Security cages are built from modular panels in standard sizes that combine for any configuration:

• Standard panel widths — 1′, 2′, 3′, 4′, 5′, and 8′
• Standard heights — 8′ and 10′ (custom heights available)
• Door widths — 3′ single, 4′ single, or 5′-8′ double doors
• Ceiling options — Open top, wire mesh ceiling, or solid ceiling panels

Material Handling USA can design any cage configuration to fit your exact space. Send us your room dimensions for a free layout.

Security Cage Applications by Industry

• Warehousing & Distribution — Secure high-value inventory, restrict hazmat areas, create shipping/receiving zones
• Law Enforcement — Evidence storage, weapons rooms, inmate property, contraband storage
• Healthcare — DEA-compliant drug storage, medical supply security, equipment storage
• Data Centers — Co-location cages, server room partitions, equipment enclosures
• Retail — Back-of-house security, layaway storage, high-value merchandise cages
• Government — Classified document storage, equipment cages, access-controlled areas

Lock and Access Control Options

• Padlock hasps — Simple, economical. User supplies padlock.
• Cylinder locks — Key-operated deadbolts built into the door frame.
• Electronic keypad — Code-based access with audit trails.
• Card reader integration — Connects to building access control systems.
• Biometric — Fingerprint or facial recognition for maximum security.

Security Cage Cost and Lead Times

• Wire mesh panels — $15-$35 per linear foot depending on gauge and height
• Standard 10x10x8 enclosure with door — $2,000-$5,000
• Large warehouse partition (50+ linear ft) — Custom quoted
• Lead time — Standard sizes ship in 1-2 weeks; custom configurations 2-4 weeks

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the standard height of a security cage?

Standard security cage heights are 8 feet and 10 feet. Ceiling-height cages extend to the ceiling deck with no gap, providing maximum security. Custom heights are available for specific applications.

How much does a security cage cost?

Security cage pricing depends on size, material gauge, and features. Basic wire mesh cages start around $15-$25 per linear foot for panels. A complete 10×10 enclosure with door typically runs $2,000-$5,000. Larger warehouse partitions are priced by the project.

What gauge wire mesh is best for security cages?

For general warehouse security, 10-gauge welded wire mesh (2″x1″ openings) provides good visibility and protection. For high-security applications like DEA cages and server rooms, 6-gauge mesh or expanded metal panels offer maximum resistance to cutting.

Can security cages be installed on carpet or uneven floors?

Security cages are best installed on concrete floors with mechanical anchors. Carpet installations use through-carpet anchoring. For uneven floors, adjustable leveling feet and custom panel cuts ensure a proper fit.

Do I need a building permit for a security cage?

In most jurisdictions, freestanding wire partitions don’t require building permits because they’re considered equipment, not construction. However, ceiling-height installations and fire-rated partitions may require permits. Check with your local building authority.

Related Resources

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