An evidence room is only as good as its organization. Poorly managed property rooms lead to lost evidence, compromised cases, and failed audits. Modern evidence storage solutions combine high-density shelving, secure access controls, and chain-of-custody tracking to solve these problems.

At Material Handling USA, we’ve designed evidence rooms for police departments, sheriff’s offices, federal agencies, and crime labs across the country. Here’s what we’ve learned about building a world-class evidence storage system.

The Problem with Traditional Evidence Rooms

Most evidence rooms face the same challenges:

• Running out of space: Evidence accumulates faster than it can be disposed, and agencies are often stuck in the same building footprint.
• Disorganized layouts: Static shelving with handwritten labels makes retrieval slow and error-prone.
• Security gaps: Open shelving with minimal access control can’t satisfy audit requirements.
• No tracking: Without barcode or RFID tracking, agencies can’t prove chain of custody in court.

Core Components of a Modern Evidence Room

High-Density Mobile Shelving

Electric mobile shelving is the backbone of modern evidence rooms. By eliminating fixed aisles, these systems store 50–100% more evidence in the same footprint. Carriages lock when closed, creating an additional layer of physical security.

For a deep dive into mobile shelving options, see our Pipp Mobile Storage Systems page.

Pass-Through Evidence Lockers

Evidence intake lockers allow officers to deposit evidence without entering the property room. These lockers typically mount through a wall, with officers loading evidence on one side and property room staff retrieving it from the secure side.

Common configurations include refrigerated compartments for biological evidence, oversized compartments for long guns and bulky items, and combination-lock drawers for narcotics.

Temporary Storage & Drying Cabinets

Wet and biological evidence must be dried before packaging. Dedicated drying cabinets with ventilation prevent mold and cross-contamination. HEPA-filtered drying lockers are available for biohazard evidence.

Long-Term & Bulk Evidence Storage

Large items like bicycles, car parts, and furniture need dedicated zones. Cantilever racks, bulk shelving bays, and mezzanines create organized storage for oversized evidence that doesn’t fit on standard shelves.

RFID & Barcode Tracking

Digital tracking is now standard for evidence management. RFID tracking systems automatically log when evidence enters and leaves the property room, who accessed it, and where it was stored — creating a complete digital chain of custody.

Benefits include:

• Automated inventory audits that take hours instead of weeks
• Real-time location tracking for every item
• Court-admissible access logs
• Alerts for evidence approaching disposition dates

Evidence Room Design Best Practices

1. Separate intake from retrieval: Officers should never enter the main property room to deposit evidence.
2. Zone by evidence type: Firearms, narcotics, biological, and general evidence each need different security levels and environmental controls.
3. Plan for 10+ years of growth: Agencies typically underestimate future storage needs. High-density systems and modular designs allow expansion.
4. Control access: Card readers, PIN codes, and CCTV at every entry point. Limit access to authorized property room staff.
5. Document everything: Digital tracking isn’t optional anymore. Every touch should be logged.

For the full planning guide, read our Comprehensive Guide to Evidence Storage.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does an evidence room renovation cost?

A typical evidence room renovation with high-density mobile shelving costs $30,000–$150,000 depending on room size, shelving requirements, and technology. Grants from the Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) and state sources often cover these costs.

Can we renovate while the evidence room is still in use?

Yes. We plan phased installations that relocate evidence section by section, maintaining chain of custody throughout the project. Most renovations complete in 2–6 weeks.

What about inmate property storage?

Corrections facilities have similar needs. Our inmate property storage lockers are purpose-built for jails and prisons, with ventilated compartments and tamper-proof construction.

Get a Free Evidence Room Design

We specialize in evidence and property room solutions for law enforcement. Tell us about your space and challenges, and we’ll provide a free 3D design with a complete cost estimate.

Request your free evidence room design → or call (801) 328-8788.