Security Trailer vs Security Guards
Save up to 62% on security costs while getting superior 24/7 coverage. See why Washington construction companies are switching to mobile surveillance.
Get Cost ComparisonReal Cost Comparison for Washington Construction Sites
Based on actual 2024-2025 market rates in Seattle-Tacoma area
Monthly Cost Calculator
Cost Analysis
Security Guards Cost
$20,800/mo
2 guards @ $20/hr
Surveillance Trailer Cost
$8,000/mo
Professional monitoring included
Your Savings
$12,800/mo
62% reduction
Annual Savings: $153,600
Comprehensive Feature Comparison
| Feature | Security Guards | Mobile Surveillance Trailer |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Cost (24/7) | $20,800 (2 guards) | ✓ $8,000-$12,000 |
| Coverage Area | Limited patrol radius | ✓ 360° complete coverage |
| Response Time | Varies by location | ✓ Instant AI detection |
| Weather Impact | Reduced effectiveness | ✓ All-weather operation |
| Recording Capability | Body cam only | ✓ 30-60 day storage |
| False Alarms | Human error prone | ✓ AI reduces by 95% |
| Insurance Discount | 0-5% | ✓ 10-20% reduction |
| Deployment Time | 24-48 hours | ✓ 2-4 hours |
| Scalability | Requires more guards | ✓ Single unit covers more |
| Evidence Quality | Witness testimony | ✓ 4K video evidence |
Security Guards
Mobile Surveillance Trailer
Hidden Costs of Security Guards
- Overtime & Holiday Pay: +50% on holidays
- Training & Turnover: Average 200% annual turnover
- Liability Insurance: $2-5 million required
- Break Coverage: 3rd guard needed for 24/7
Surveillance Trailer Advantages
- No Human Limitations: Never sleeps, no breaks needed
- Predictable Costs: Fixed monthly rate, no surprises
- Legal Protection: Timestamped video evidence
- Instant Deployment: Same-day setup available
ROI Analysis: Real Numbers from Washington Projects
Typical 6-Month Construction Project
Security Guard Option
- 2 Guards (24/7 coverage) $20,800/mo
- Supervisor/Management $2,000/mo
- Holiday/Overtime Premium $3,120/mo
- Insurance & Liability $1,500/mo
- Monthly Total $27,420
- 6-Month Project Cost $164,520
Surveillance Trailer Option
- Surveillance Trailer $8,000/mo
- Professional Monitoring Included
- Maintenance & Support Included
- Insurance Included $0/mo
- Monthly Total $8,000
- 6-Month Project Cost $48,000
Total Savings: $116,520 (71% reduction)
Plus 10-20% insurance premium reduction worth $3,000-$6,000
Break-Even Point
8 Days
Trailer pays for itself in prevented theft
Theft Prevention Rate
85%
Documented crime reduction
Average Theft Loss
$30,000
Per incident in Washington
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a security trailer cost compared to guards?
A professional mobile surveillance trailer costs $8,000-$12,000 per month including 24/7 monitoring. Security guards for the same coverage cost $20,800+ per month (2 guards at $20/hour), representing a 62% cost savings with the trailer option.
Which is more effective: surveillance trailers or security guards?
Studies show surveillance trailers prevent 85% of crimes through visible deterrence and AI detection, while providing 360-degree coverage without blind spots. Guards have limited patrol radius and human limitations like fatigue. Trailers also provide legal-quality video evidence.
What are the hidden costs of hiring security guards?
Hidden costs include overtime pay (time-and-a-half), holiday premiums (+50%), training costs, 200% annual turnover, liability insurance ($2-5 million required), workers' compensation, and the need for a third guard to cover breaks for true 24/7 coverage.
Can surveillance trailers work in bad weather?
Yes, surveillance trailers are designed for all-weather operation with IP67-rated cameras, heated enclosures, and backup power systems. They maintain full effectiveness in rain, snow, and extreme temperatures, unlike guards who may have reduced effectiveness in severe weather.
Do insurance companies prefer surveillance trailers over guards?
Yes, insurance companies typically offer 10-20% premium reductions for sites with surveillance systems versus 0-5% for guard services. Many insurers now require surveillance for high-value projects, recognizing the superior documentation and consistent coverage provided by camera systems.
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