United Rentals’ aluminum trench boxes for rent provide strength while being lightweight, typically weighing around half as much as steel trench shields. Also known as aluminum shoring boxes, these protective barriers are ideal for keeping your workers safe during trenching operations. Our comprehensive line includes popular shields as well as heavy-duty models. We also carry a Modular Aluminum Panel Shields (MAPS) system, which can be assembled in minutes and is designed to adapt to site requirements. Both systems help protect workers if a collapse occurs. Learn more about aluminum trench boxes in  Benefits of Modular Aluminum Trench Boxes.

FAQs About Aluminum Boxes & Shields

What is an aluminum trench shield?

• A trench shield is a protective tool used to retain dirt during trench excavations. Unlike a box, shields are not necessarily enclosed on three or four sides. They are commonly open at opposing ends with metal walls running the length of the shield and held open by spreaders. However, the terms are often used interchangeably because they have the same purpose. For more information, Trench Box vs. Trench Shield: What’s the Difference? can help you learn more about the similarities and differences between trench boxes and trench shields.

What is aluminum hydraulic shoring?

• Hydraulic shoring is a process used to enhance protective trench sheets or shields. Pressure is used to apply force to the shoring, which pushes against trench walls and the dirt being held in place to prevent a cave-in.

What are the three main methods of protection against cave-ins?

• According to OSHA, to prevent cave-ins you must slope or bench trench walls, shore trench walls with supports, or shield trench walls with trench boxes. We encourage site managers and teams to review these standards to ensure the use of best practices and overall safety on jobsites.