5 Easy Steps to Improve Warehouse Security

Security remains arguably the most important aspect of warehouse operations. What good is an efficient facility, optimised supply chain and productive warehouse workforce if all assets and goods are constantly under threat?

With UK warehouses and distribution facilities experiencing an estimated £68 million in asset loss or theft, not to mention the annual cost of cyber security breaches to UK businesses totalling £44 billion, there is an operational and financial aspect to consider. The greater, interconnected supply chains are also at risk of further compromise, as a severe breach within a facility can spread across the network. 

Business owners across Doncaster and beyond must be prepared to take more proactive and vigilant steps to safeguard their assets, staff, and brand reputations. At Artemis Marketing, we work with businesses of all sizes, and we’ve seen for ourselves how improved security can make a vital difference. Not only can it provide much-needed peace of mind knowing that inventory and goods are safe, but businesses can save substantial amounts in the long run, despite the initial upfront costs of overhauling their incumbent security measures.

Whether you’re running a small, local storage facility or a large network of distribution centres, these essential steps will help you strengthen your warehouse security without putting you deep in the red.

1. Control and limit access points

Warehouse management should have complete control and visibility over who enters a facility and when. Designating a primary entrance for all staff and visitors, with round-the-clock monitoring and mandatory fob or key card access registration systems, will help track everyone moving on- and off-site. Consider access control where permissions can be granted or revoked remotely, with real-time updates configured so you can keep a digitised record of all movements.

2. Invest in comprehensive CCTV coverage

Video surveillance remains one of the most powerful deterrents against theft and vandalism. Modern CCTV systems now include 24/7 real-time monitoring, remote mobile access, and analytics to detect suspicious behaviour patterns. Position cameras cleverly to cover entry and exit points, loading bays, internal high-value stock areas and perimeters. External cameras are a strong visible deterrent, while internal systems can provide valuable evidence should an incident occur at the hands of a member of staff. Thermal imaging and motion detection can also alert you to possible suspicious activity outside of normal hours, if need be.

3. Upgrade to secure, automated entry systems

Your warehouse doors are your first line of defence, physically speaking. Manual doors with standard locks may not always cut the proverbial mustard, whereas automated, electric doors, made from high-quality steel, are a substantial security upgrade. For loading bays, main entrances, and side access points, never overlook the importance of a strong door. 

In many cases, these systems remove the need for physical keys or handles that can be picked or forced open. The alternative is remote control panels or authorisation from approved devices. Companies such as Wessex Garage Doors provide sectional, roller, and up-and-over automated options with built-in security features, including mechanical latch locking, which is worth considering as part of a large-scale warehouse optimisation and renovation project.

4. Strengthen your perimeter

It’s worth looking beyond the warehouse itself and exploring what can be done to safeguard your perimeter. Products such as anti-climb fencing can prevent trespassers, obscure their sight lines, and prove immovable when reinforced with concrete blocks. Motion-activated lighting, beam sensors and even ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) cameras can provide greater and more comprehensive oversight, where vehicles can be logged autonomously. This provides additional reassurance if they repeatedly visit your estate.

5. Implement robust cybersecurity measures

Physical security is only part of the picture. With 43% of UK businesses experiencing some form of cyber attack or breach in the last 12 months, according to the Government's Cyber Security Breaches Survey 2025, digital threats pose an equally serious risk to warehouses that should never be glossed over.

Warehouses must ensure that inventory management, customer data acquisition channels and software are all encrypted with SSL or TLS certificates. Any access to shared systems should always be reinforced with multi-factor authentication (MFA) across multiple trusted devices and accounts to minimise the risk of unauthorised access. Ensure all wireless networks are secure and separated, with guest networks accessible only to those without security clearance. Patch all systems and software regularly, and enforce regular awareness training for employees, so they are equipped and ready to handle suspicious phishing attacks or more calculated social engineering attacks. Furthermore, consider also investing in professional business cyber insurance for peace of mind.

Taking action on warehouse security

Warehouse security doesn't require an overwhelming investment or a thorough understanding of complex IT systems and integrating them together. The fundamental requirement is the ability to continually address the physical and digital vulnerabilities that are intrinsically part of daily warehouse operations.

Implementing these steps will create multiple additional barriers that deter criminal activity from taking place and fortify your warehouse for the long haul. Begin by assessing your current threat exposure, prioritise the most critical security improvements based on your risks and budget, and build upon that knowledge incrementally. Even small changes can yield significant improvements.

The salient point to remember is that the cost of implementing preventative measures is markedly lower than the cost of a devastating cyber breach, organised theft, or long-term supply chain disruption.

The combination of rising crime rates and increasingly sophisticated threats means that complacency is no longer an option. 

Artemis Marketing provides business guidance and marketing solutions to SMEs across the UK. For more practical business advice, visit the Doncaster Chamber of Commerce business news section.