A depository is a facility where things can be deposited for storage or safekeeping. Therefore a depository safe is a safe where items can be deposited for storage or safekeeping. They are usually used in a business setting versus a residential setting, because usually what is being dropped into the safe is cash, or other important paperwork. The depository safes are made with three types of openings.

The first type of opening on a depository safe is a front load, mailbox type opening, which is for dropping deposits from cash registers or business dealings. This is called a depository or drop safe. The door on this type of safe usually pulls down or out from the front of the safe and the deposit is dropped into the door and the door is closed. The object that has been deposited drops into the safe. The deposit drops past a  baffle (which should be present to keep thieves from “fishing” anything out of the safe). It can drop into the safe itself or it can drop into an inner compartment that locks with a key or other type of lock. When a separate locking compartment is included in a safe, you can leave change or other items needed by your staff on an ongoing basis and not be worried about them getting their hands on the deposits.

A safe that has an opening (called a hopper) that rotates with a handle on the top of the safe, and drops the deposit into the safe, is called a rotary hopper safe. This type of safe usually is manufactured with one or two separate doors. When the safe has two doors, the top section catches the deposit and the bottom is for the change or additional items needed for your employees’ convenience during the day. Again your employees’ do not have access to the deposits if you have a two door safe.

The last type of safe has an opening on the side opposite to the locking door, this is usually a slot or can be a drop. You mount the safe through the wall so the actual safe is inside an office, locked up, and the deposit is made from outside the office through the wall. These are called reverse depository safes.
They are found in many sizes and can accommodate a large amount of drops or a small amount of drops. If you have questions as to what is right for your business. Give us a call at (818) 997-1234, and we will be happy to help you make the important decision of what size and type of depository safe you need.