Vending Machine Locks

Keep your earnings under lock and key. Here's an overview of the locks typically used for vending machines and the pros and cons of each.

Depending on where your vending machines end up, security can be more or less of an issue. Ideally, all your machines would be behind locked doors, accessible only to the most reputable and trusted sort of people, and in good view of a video camera that is directly linked to the facilities watchful security guard. But in the real world, things don't usually work out that way. And, if you're just getting into vending and trying out new locations, the chances of your getting a few spots that other vending machines owners didn't want are high. Those spots may not have been wanted because the machines have been repeatedly broken into. And you vending competitors may not tell you that up front.

The good news is that locks are not terribly expensive. You can get a good quality cylinder lock on Ebay for about $15 with shipping.



There are three kinds of locks for vending machines: cylinder (or tubular) locks, removable plug locks, and pop-out handle locks.

Cylinder locks are most commonly used. They are fairly cheap, and they provide some security, but you may be chilled to learn that there are companies that actually sell lock-picking devices for these locks, specifically for tubular locks. So if your thief is even a smart kid who can buy some locksmithing gear online, these locks may not hold up for you, but if your machines are behind locked doors and in a fairly secure area, these $15 to $20 a piece locks may do just fine.

Cylinder locks can come with a spring or dead bolt locking system. Some of the fancier models can be dead bolt when their locked, but spring when they're open. Other features include an anti-drill dimple to deter drill-armed thieves, and 7 or 8 sided keys which are harder to duplicate. What the lock is made of matters, too -- if you're serious about keeping your income (or your vending machines are in a really secure place), steel is the only choice.

If you want to upgrade form a tubular lock, check out a Nova lock. For a bit more money you get considerably more protection, but you have to treat these locks a bit more gently than the simple tubular locks (the locking mechanism is a bit more delicate and can wear out over a few years). Nova locks have a smaller opening for the key, so fewer of the lock picking devices work with them.

A similar quality lock can be found in Duo Locks, which have non-symmetrical keys. These tend to last longer than Nova locks.

If you really want to "do it right the first time", or you have a persistent thief, you'll want a Medeco lock. If you're locky, you can get some on Ebay for $15 to $20. Buying them from a standard vending retailer will cost a bit more. These T handle cylinder locks can be set so they are keyed together in the same system, which means you can use one key for all the locks. Keep in mind, though, that means your thief can use just one key, too. The steel housing and lock systems of these deterents will stand up to both lock pickers and blunt force vandals, so they are a good solution to a variety of vending machine security problems.

Medeco locks are of high enough quality and affordable enough that I think you'd do well to just start with them. One of the best practices of security is to look tough so no one ever tests your resolve, and putting Medeco locks on sends a good message in that direction.

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