If you’ve ever been to a busy event, you’ve seen stanchions in use. Stanchions are posts with ropes or chains attached that create a boundary or queue line. They’re often used in places like airports, hospitals, and banks to control the flow of people. This article will help you learn about the different types of stanchions for sale and their uses. Read ahead to get some tips on choosing the right stanchion for your needs.
What Are Stanchions?
A stanchion is a post, typically found in a line or row, used to support or secure something. The word “stanchion” comes from the Old French estang, meaning “post” or “pillar.” In the modern-day, stanchions are commonly used to create queues or lines of people, as they can relatively be rearranged and moved around.
They are commonly seen at concerts, museums, and other places like restaurants, airports, banks, etc., where there is a need to control crowds. These are made from various materials, including metal, plastic, and wood. They vary in height, but most are usually three and six feet tall.
Some of them have a base that can be weighted down with sandbags or water barrels, while others have a broader base that helps stability. In addition to their practical crowd management, stanchions can also be used as decorative elements.
Types of Stanchions
There are three main types of stanchions:
- Retractable Belt Stanchions: Belt stanchions are a popular option for indoor and outdoor use. They’re easy to set up, and takedown and their bright colors are highly visible. Plus, thanks to the retractable belt, they can be quickly adjusted to fit the needs of any space. Belt stanchions are versatile, whether you’re looking for a temporary solution or a more permanent fixture.
- Rope Stanchions: Rope stanchions are a classic choice for creating queues and lines. They’re often used in high-traffic areas like museums, movie theaters, and concert venues. Rope options are generally made from metal or plastic, and they come in a variety of sizes and styles.
- Sign Stanchions: Sign stanchions are a great way to direct foot traffic and promote events or products. They could be used indoors or outdoors and come in various sizes and shapes. Most sign stanchions have a metal frame with a plastic or acrylic sign holder. They can be customized to fit your specific needs and are a great way to get your message seen by large groups of people.
How to Choose the Right Stanchion
Now that you know the different types of stanchions, it’s time to choose the right one for your needs. When selecting stanchions for sale, there are a few things you’ll need to keep in mind:
- Type of Event or Space You’ll Be Using It in:
The type of event or space you’ll be using the stanchion will help determine which type is right for you. A belt stanchion is an inexpensive, temporary option. A rope will be a better alternative if you need something more permanent. And if you want to advertise an event or product, a sign stanchion might be the perfect answer.
- Size of the Area:
The size of the area you’ll be using the stanchion in is also essential to consider. If you have ample space, you’ll need to choose a stanchion that’s tall enough to be seen over the crowd. And if you have a smaller space, you’ll want to make sure the stanchion isn’t too big or bulky.
- Number of People You Need to Accommodate:
You’ll need to think about how many people you need to accommodate. If you’re expecting a large crowd, you’ll want to ensure you have enough stanchions to create an efficient line. And if you’re only expecting a few people, you might be able to get away with using fewer stanchions.
- How Long You’ll Need the Stanchions:
Another thing to consider is how long you’ll need the stanchions. A temporary option like belt stanchions might be best if you only need them for a one-time event. But if you need them on a more permanent basis, something like rope or sign stanchions would be a better choice.
- Budget:
Of course, your budget is also an essential factor to consider when choosing a stanchion. Stanchions can range in price from around $20 to $200, so it’s crucial to find an option that fits within your budget.
Now that you know about several stanchions and how to choose the right one for your needs, it’s time to start shopping. You can find a great selection of stanchions at any office supply or event planning store.