How to keep your storage cage secure without breaking the bank
Look most of us have been there. Living in an apartment block or unit complex that’s tight on space and trying to cram all your extra furniture into the storage cage in the carpark?
The thing is, these storage cages are brilliant when they work properly. However they can be a magnet for thieves if you don’t set it up right. I mean, think about it, most of them are just wire mesh with a basic lock. Not very difficult for a clever criminal to get into.
Why storage cage security matters more than you think
Here’s the reality check nobody talks about enough. These cages aren’t just holding your old Christmas decorations and that exercise bike you swore you’d use more often. People store genuinely valuable stuff in there like power tools, bikes, sports gear, even car parts and tyres. If you add it all up you’re probably looking at a few thousand dollars worth of gear.
The other problem is that most storage cages are down in the basement or carpark where not many people are, especially at night. Perfect for privacy when you’re organising your stuff, not so great for deterring people who shouldn’t be there in the first place.
And here’s something that might surprise you like insurance can be a bit tricky with storage cages. Some home contents policies cover them but others don’t and the ones that do often have pretty strict requirements about security measures. Worth checking that out before you have to find out the hard way.
Getting the basics right with locks
Right let’s start with the obvious stuff, your lock. This can go one of two ways.
The padlock that came with your cage? Put it in bin. Those things are usually about as secure as a chocolate teapot. You need something more heavy duty, try bunnings.
Heavy duty padlocks are your friend here, but not all of them are created equal. Look for ones with hardened steel shackles, basically the metal loop bit that goes through your cage door. The cheap ones use soft steel that bolt cutters can go through like butter.
Short shackles are better than long ones, which sounds obvious but isn’t something everyone thinks about. Long shackles give bolt cutters more room to work with. Short ones make the job much harder.
Disc locks are pretty clever actually. They’re designed so there’s basically nothing for bolt cutters to grab onto. The downside is they’re usually more expensive and if you lose the key it will be difficult to get into it.
Making your cage secure
Now, the lock is only as good as what it’s attached to. Some of these cages are so flimsy that someone could probably pull the door off with their bare hands if they really wanted to.
If you’re stuck with a basic wire mesh cage, there are ways to make it more secure. Cable ties might sound amateur but they’re actually quite useful for securing loose panels. Just don’t rely on them as your main security because they are more to stop opportunist thieves who may just see an opening and take as they please.
Adding extra steel mesh or even just some additional wire can help reinforce weak spots. You don’t need to go overboard, but anything that makes the cage look like it’ll take more than five minutes to break into is worth doing.
One thing that works really well is creating layers inside your cage. Old wooden pallets work great for this because they are cheap, easy to move around and they create natural barriers.
The psychological side of security
This might sound a bit strange but half of security is about psychology. Making your cage look like it’s not worth the trouble compared to the easier targets nearby.
Lighting makes a massive difference. Motion sensor lights aren’t expensive these days, and they don’t need to be permanently wired in.
Visibility is weird with storage cages. On one hand you want people to be able to see if someone’s messing about with your cage. On the other hand, you don’t want everyone walking past to see exactly what you’ve got stored in there. It’s a balancing act.
Surveillance
Most security gadgets are either overpriced rubbish or complete overkill for a storage cage but if youre storing valuable things in there you may want to look into surveillance.
Smart locks can be pretty useful especially if you tend to lose your keys. The good ones send alerts to your phone if someone’s trying to get into it which can be a hug help.
Small alarm systems designed for sheds and garages work quite well on storage cages. They’re not going to stop a a really determined thief but they make enough noise to scare off opportunistic ones. Plus they’re usually loud enough that other residents will notice something’s up.
CCTV is overkill for most people but if your storage cage has lots of valuables then it may be something to consider. Even a dummy camera can work as a deterrent.
Common mistakes people make
Using the wrong type of lock is probably the biggest problem people come across with storage cages. If your car park is near the ocean or gets damp then regular padlocks wont last very long.
Storing things in the wrong order. Loads of people put their most valuable stuff right at the front where anyone walking past can see it. Keep the good gear towards the back and use cheaper items at the front to deter opportunist thieves who may spot something they like and take it.
Not checking on things regularly enough. I’m not saying you need to visit your cage every day but having a quick look every couple of weeks lets you spot problems before they become serious.
Telling too many people what you’ve got stored. Look, I get it, you’re excited about that new mountain bike or power tool set. But the fewer people who know exactly what’s in your cage, the better. That includes delivery drivers, maintenance staff and yes even some neighbours.
The neighbourhood factor
The security of the whole building or complex affects how safe your individual cage is. Getting to know your neighbours isn’t just about being friendly to be honest it’s about creating an environment where you can spot any suspicious behaviour.
Most thieves prefer to work where they won’t be disturbed or questioned. If you’re in a building where residents actually notice unfamiliar faces and aren’t afraid to ask what someone’s doing, then your storage unit may be secure.
Community WhatsApp groups or similar might sound a bit over the top but they’re actually great for sharing business info instantly. Someone spots someone suspicious in the car park they can let everyone know quickly.
Final thoughts
At the end of the day, perfect security doesn’t exist. Someone determined enough with the right tools and enough time can probably get into any storage cage. But that’s not really the point.
The goal is to make your cage less attractive than the others. Most theft from storage areas is opportunistic rather than targeted as thieves just see something they like and want it, most people don’t actually know what you have in there, if you hide it.
Remember community security works better than individual security. The safest storage cages are in buildings where residents look out for each other and aren’t afraid to question people who don’t belong there.
Start with the basics like a decent lock, good habits and reasonable lighting.
