There are many different gate systems that can be used for a storage yard. It is an important investment for your storage yard as many customers find security and access as one of their highest priorities when looking for vehicle storage. There are different things to consider such as which gate control software to use, what automation is necessary for your yard, and more. Whether you own a commercial storage facility or a semi-truck yard you will need to decide which security gate systems work best for your needs. Below we will go into an overview of different options and features of security gate systems to consider for your storage yard.
Different Types of Gates
There are a few different types of gates to consider for your property. Below are the main types of gates used in the storage industry :
Slide Gate
The slide gate is the most popular type of gate used in the vehicle storage industry. They are operated by wheels on the bottom of the gate that slides to one side when a vehicle is entering and then close after the customer has passed through. They are relatively easy to install and are price effective which makes them a great investment in the yard. Another advantage of the slide gate is that they can be longer than 20 feet, which is usually the length where other gate types max out. These gates offer great security to properties which explains why it is the most commonly used gate type in the vehicle storage industry.
(Image by International Gate Devices via https://www.slidegate.net/)
Swing Gate:
Swing gates are connected to a motor that allows the gate to open and close in the same way a door does. Since the gate swings open and close it does require enough empty space around it to operate. With these types of gates, the keypad will be located on a post that customers can drive up to and enter their code to gain access. This type of gate does provide sufficient security for the customer but does have a high installation cost and does not work great for two-way traffic. The main disadvantage of a swing gate is the amount of space they require to open and close.
(Image by Dormakaba via https://www.dormakaba.com/gb-en/solutions/products/gates-and-barriers/automatic-swing-gates-1111906)
Vertical Pivot Gate:
These types of gates open and close by lifting up and down in the same way a railroad crossing arm does. They are usually made of steel and are around 20 feet long. Their advantages are that they move faster than slide and swing gates while still offering the same security those types of gates provide. Another thing to consider about these types of gates is that they do not need to maneuver through snow or other weather conditions. If your storage yard is in an area that snows a lot, you may want to consider this type of gate for your facility. These gates are very easy to install and are somewhat affordable to install.
(Image by Lazy Gate, Inc via https://www.lazygate.com/)
Barrier Arm Gate:
These gates are equipped with a single arm usually around 20 feet long made from wood or aluminum. These types of gates are most popularly used in non-secure areas and for traffic control management. They work by using a motor that allows the arm the rise as the vehicle passes through and then closes once the vehicle has passed through. These gates are the most effective of all the options. The main disadvantage to using a gate like this at a vehicle storage yard or semi yard is that they do not provide security. Therefore, these types of gates are not suggested for yards that are storing high-value items.
(Image by AutoGate Gate Entry Systems via https://www.autogate.com/barrier-arms/)
Gate Manufacturers to Consider
Once you decide what type of gate is right for your business, you will want to find the right provider. Below is a list of a few manufacturers in the United States, but this article goes into more depth about each business.
- Tilt-A-Way Ideal Manufacturing, Inc.
- North American Safety Products, Inc
- Omega Industrial Safety
- DoorKing, Inc.
Access Control Systems
After choosing the right gate for your facility, you will need to pick an access control system. One option is gate control software which is a technology that manages who can enter and exit the facility through the gate. These systems are used to assign gate codes to renters as well as disable codes for renters who have missed payments. Most gate control software options can be integrated with the facility management system. You can choose between cloud-based access controls which do not require a computer on-site to run or a traditional gate control software system that does. You can learn more about gate control software that is available here.
There are also other types of access control such as intercom and telephone systems which require personnel on-site to allow access, RFID card systems, keypads, and vehicle detection systems. It is important to consider what access you would like to allow to your customer in choosing which access control system you use. If you want restricted access, you may want to consider using access systems that require staff to be onsite to allow customers to come and go. If you allow unlimited access systems like keypads, RFID cards, and vehicle detection may be the way to go.
Overall, having the perfect gate for your storage yard is very important. Security is one of the main features for customers in need of vehicle storage and it provides access control to your yard. Make sure you consider all factors when choosing which type of gate and access control systems you would like to use at your facility.