Designing Driver Cages for Maximum Efficiency in Distribution Centers
Driver access points are some of the busiest areas in a distribution center. With contractors, delivery drivers, and outside personnel frequently entering and exiting, these areas must be carefully planned for efficiency and security. That’s where driver cages come in.
At WireCrafters, we manufacture high-quality wire mesh driver cages that help control facility access without slowing down operations. However, maximizing their effectiveness requires more than just putting up a cage. Strategic design choices, such as where you place the cage, how you configure doors, and which accessories you include, can significantly affect the overall workflow.
Clever Placement = Better Flow
The first step in designing an efficient driver cage is location. Placing the cage inside the shipping and receiving entrance allows you to intercept outside visitors before they access the warehouse floor. Ideally, it should be positioned near the main dock door or entry point without interfering with loading and unloading operations.
If possible, choose a location with clear visibility from the main office or security area. This adds another layer of oversight and can reduce the need for additional personnel to monitor the cage directly.
Layout That Works for Your Space
No two warehouses are precisely alike, so we offer customizable layouts for our driver cages. Depending on your facility's needs, common layouts include single-wall, L-shape, or three-sided enclosures.
If space is tight, a single-wall configuration with a sliding door may be the most practical. In larger areas, a three-sided cage with a built-in service window allows drivers to interact with office staff while remaining outside the secure zone.
Adding benches or a service window can also improve the driver experience without compromising security. These features allow drivers to complete paperwork or wait safely while loading or unloading trucks.
Choosing the Right Door Configuration
Door design plays a significant role in how smoothly your cage functions. WireCrafters offers hinged and sliding door options, both of which can be fitted with a variety of locks and access control systems.
For cages in high-traffic areas, sliding doors save space and reduce the risk of blocking walkways or equipment. If you need to restrict access further, consider adding an electric strike or mag lock system to your facility’s badge reader or intercom system. We also offer door options with push bars, card readers, or keypad entry—each designed to help you control who gets in and when.
Access Control and Add-Ons
To enhance your cage, consider integrating accessories. A service window with a shelf allows paperwork or small items to be passed through securely. Signage, motion-sensor lighting, and intercom systems all help streamline communication and improve safety. WireCrafters' driver cages can also include ceiling panels for a full enclosure, especially in areas where security is a top concern. Since our cages are made with our signature Style 840 wire mesh panels, airflow and visibility are never compromised.
Built for Efficiency, Designed for Safety
Driver cages aren’t just a compliance tool; they’re a smart way to protect your facility without slowing down. When designed with flow and functionality in mind, they can improve the daily rhythm of your distribution center while keeping employees and assets secure.
At WireCrafters, we’ve helped hundreds of facilities nationwide design and install driver cages that meet their needs. Whether you want to enhance security, improve traffic flow, or reduce unauthorized access, we have the products and experience to help you build the right solution.
Need help designing your driver cage? Contact our team or your local dealer to get started!
To learn more about WireCrafters, visit www.wirecrafters.com or follow us on YouTube, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
