A trench box is versatile, cost-effective and provide an excellent way of protecting workers from excavation wall collapse while carrying out groundworks. They can easily be stacked and used in multiple runs, which also makes them the ideal shoring method for continuously supporting an extended length of trench.

    We offer a wide range of trench box sizes, including the Mini Trench Box, the Standard Trench Box, and the Multi Mega Trench Box. 

    Our trench box products are designed to be installed quickly and easily. The extension boxes can be added to achieve deeper trenches, up to a maximum of two top boxes. They can be installed in either pre-dug trench in stable ground or by progressive 'dig & push' method. Read more of the benefits of a Trench Box here. 

    We take pride in our commitment to safety and quality. Our shoring box products are built to the highest standards, ensuring that they are safe and reliable for all your construction needs. We understand that every project is unique, which is why we offer customised solutions to suit your requirements.

    For quick & easy standard designs 24/7, try out our standard design tool, YourSolution.

    Contact us today to learn more about our trench and shoring box products and how they can benefit your project. Find out more about all our trench boxes for hire.

Type Mini Multi Box Standard Multi Box Mega Multi Box
Base Top Ext Base Top Ext Base Top Ext
Plate Length (m) 3.0 3.5 5
Plate height (m) 2.0 1.0 2.6 1.3 2.6 1.3
Plate thickness (mm) 60 100 127
Overall trench width (m) 0.66 - 4.41 0.73 - 4.53 0.79 - 3.90
Internal width (m) 0.54 - 4.29 0.54 - 4.29 0.53 - 3.64
Weight (kg)* 1160 632 2084 1232 3090 1840
Distance between struts 2.50 3.0 4.53
Strut Clearance Height (m) 1.19 N/A 1.44 N/A 1.4 N/A

FAQs

What size Trench Box do I need?

The required size of Trench Box will firstly be determined by the size of the excavation: Groundforce supply four trench box sizes, all with adjustable struts. Mini Trench Boxes start with a plate length of 3m, and the Mega Trench Box has 5m plates. All Trench Boxes sizes can be fitted with a top box to achieve greater depths. Other factors that influence the size of a Trench Box include:

•    Type of soil (sand, silt etc.)

•    Any utilities work within the trench

•    Excavator size (weight limitations)


What does a Trench Box do?

A trench box holds back the earth on two sides but is open at its ends. Using more than one trench box can facilitate the installation of long pipe runs or similar, as they can run parallel to one another. 


When should a Trench Box be used?

A Trench Box should primarily be used to protect workers from excavation wall collapse while undertaking groundworks. Ease of installation means Trench Boxes are the industry’s first choice for the rapid shoring of excavations and extended trench runs. Trench boxes can be used in most ground conditions but are not recommended for use in unmanaged, waterlogged ground.


How much does a box weigh?

The aggregate weight of a trench box will essentially be determined by the size of panels used together with the type of struts and associated accessories. In conditions where a lightweight solution is required, the Groundforce range of backhoe trench box products provide an excellent option. All our user guides provide information on the weights for different configurations of boxes and this is useful to know for transportation purposes, but also essential information for the hirer as it dictates the excavator class and capacity required in order to lift or position the box.


Can a trench box be stacked?

Depending on the soil pressures acting on the panels, a trench box allows for up to two additional top boxes to be stacked on the base box. A simple connection system using a cassette and pin system quickly and easily connects the boxes.


How do you install a trench box?

On site, the trench box panels and struts will be safely assembled at ground level prior to setting in the partially dug trench. The trench box can then be installed using the traditional dig and push method, connecting any additional top boxes as the excavation proceeds and finally fitting any edge protection barriers.


How deep can a trench be without shoring?

Regardless of depth, we recommend shoring equipment is installed in all excavations and that a site specific risk assessment is carried out.

What is the difference between a trench and an excavation?

An excavation is any hole in the ground, of any shape. A trench is similar but is linear in nature.

Does a trench box prevent cave-ins?

Yes, providing a temporary works design has demonstrated that the box is suitable for the specific application and ground conditions present.


What depth do you need a Trench Box?

What depth a Trench Box should be ultimately comes down to the engineer’s design and any site specific requirements. If pipes and utilities are being installed this will also be factored into the depth requirement. Trench Boxes can be installed leaving an upstand to provide a safety barrier which will also determine the overall depth.


How do I build a Trench Box?

Assembling a Groundforce Shorco Trench Box is a simple process due to its modular design and minimal components. Typically a plate is laid on the ground and 4 pre-adjusted struts are secured with pins to face upwards. The second plate is then raised and lowered onto the struts, completing the assembly: the Trench Box is then ready to be manoeuvred and placed into an excavation.


Why hire a trench box?

The modular design of Trench Boxes means the equipment can be assembled and installed very quickly to get your project moving without fuss or delay. In contrast, fabricated shoring solutions involve costly equipment, skilled welders and more time to implement. Modular Trench Boxes however benefit from cost-effective versatility together with built-in design features that comply with safety legislation. Trench Boxes can also be easily relocated onsite as a project progresses.


Related Files

(4.62 MB)
Trench Box User Guide
(2.22 MB)
Trench Box Technical Literature
(4.81 MB)
Quick Start User Guide for Trench Boxes

Trench Box: Typical Installation Methodology

This quick and easy method ensures ground stability within a trench and helps minimise the excavation area to avoid damage to neighbouring structures and utilities in the ground. This methodology is best suited for a trench box with shorter struts, if you use a trench box with long struts then other methods may be more suited, if you have any questions on different methods you can use contact our technical department.

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