Portable Security Barriers: Rapid Vehicle Security Deployment for Events, Emergency Response, and Critical Infrastructure
- IronSite Education
- Jul 9
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 18
Deploy fast, protect more, and adapt to any challenge with portable security – without the need for excavation.
Table of contents:
Introduction
Security threats are rising year over year, and bad actors are evolving their tactics to exploit vulnerabilities at events, facilities, and infrastructure sites. To keep pace, security technology must be flexible, mobile, and fast to deploy. That’s where portable security barriers come in.
While they’ve been around for years, modern portable barriers have advanced significantly offering powerful, crash-rated protection without the need for permanent installation. In this article, we break down the different types of portable barriers, where they’re commonly used, and how they compare to other security solutions.
What are portable vehicle barriers?
Portable vehicle barriers are rapid deployment perimeter security solutions designed to be moved, positioned, and operational in minutes without tools, excavation, or heavy equipment required. These barriers allow organizations to quickly control vehicle access and secure critical zones. Types of portable solutions include:
Towable Wedge Barriers - Capable of stopping a 15,000 lb. vehicle at 40 mph, these standalone barriers can be towed by a pickup and deployed in under 12 minutes with no anchoring needed.
Mobile Vehicle Barriers - Certified to stop a 15,000 lb. vehicle at 30 mph, these barriers are available in 5, 10, and 20-foot sections and can be connected for full perimeter coverage.
Surveillance Trailers - Solar-powered mobile towers equipped with cameras, motion-activated lights, sirens, and two-way audio for remote monitoring and intrusion deterrence.
Remote-Controlled Spike Strips - Designed for law enforcement and high-risk zones, these rugged strips can be deployed remotely from up to 300 meters away and are weatherproof and reusable.
These systems are engineered for ease of relocation, minimal staffing, and high-performance protection, ideal for environments that demand fast response and flexibility.
Common use cases for portable barriers
Portable vehicle barriers are a smart choice for short-term or fast-changing environments. They're commonly used to protect against vehicle-borne threats or unauthorized access at:
Riot control and emergency response
Public events: parades, concerts, festivals, markets
Temporary security checkpoints
Pedestrian zones and crowd control areas
Military, federal, and government facilities
Utility and infrastructure sites
Their low setup requirements and reusability make them a cost-effective solution compared to permanent installations, especially when security needs change over time.
Portable vs. removable barriers: what’s the difference?
Though both serve a similar purpose, preventing unauthorized vehicle access, portable and removable barriers differ in form and function:
Feature | Portable Barriers | Removable Barriers |
Deployment | Towed or carried into place, no installation needed | Require in-ground sleeves or mounts |
Setup Time | Minutes | Initial excavation required |
Reusability | Highly mobile and reusable | Can be removed and stored, but less portable |
Ideal Use | Temporary events, emergencies, mobile security | Semi-permanent sites with controlled access |
Crash Rating Options | Available | Often more robust options available |
Use portable barriers when you need rapid, temporary, or mobile protection. Choose removable barriers for more permanent applications that require flexible access control but don’t change locations frequently.
Are portable barriers crash-rated?
Yes. Many portable barriers meet the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) and ASTM crash-test standards, and some are included on the official DoD Anti-Ram Vehicle Barrier List. These certifications verify their performance in real-world impact scenarios and make them suitable for sensitive federal and military projects.
Where to start with portable barriers
The best way to ensure you’re choosing the right barrier system is to work with a qualified physical security expert. From security assessments and design assistance to installation and maintenance, professionals can help you avoid costly missteps while optimizing protection.
When you work with an experienced integrator, you benefit from:
Access to a wide range of certified portable barrier systems
Support for layout planning and threat assessment
Rapid, tool-free deployment options
Minimal-to-no site modifications
Scalable, reusable security for changing needs
Explore our portable barrier solutions or contact us to speak with a security expert about your project.
Conclusion:
Portable barriers combine speed of deployment, strength, and flexibility, making them a smart solution for high-security sites, public events, and emergency response situations. With crash-rated options, rapid setup, and no need for anchoring, they allow you to adapt to evolving threats without compromising safety or performance. At the end of the day, it’s all about protecting what matters most, and portable barriers offer formidable protection against all kinds of security threats.
IronSite is a national physical security provider with specialized expertise to deliver premium solutions at scale. Our extensive family of brands nationwide enables responsive and consistent service and support for all our clients wherever they may be.
Media Contact
Terin Pickett
IronSite
1595 E. 6th St; Suite 101
Corona, CA 92879
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