Part III: Business & Regulation · Banking, Chips & Financial Operations

Drop Box

Count ProcessesREPORTED

(1) A drop box is a locked, tamper-resistant container attached to each gaming table that collects cash, fill slips, credit slips, markers, coupons, and other documentation generated during play. The box is opened only by designated count team members in the secure count room during the soft count process. Drop boxes have unique identifying numbers and are secured with specialized locks. At the end of each shift, all drop boxes are removed from tables by personnel independent of the pit shift being dropped, transported under dual control (minimum two persons, at least one from security) to a secure storage area, and held until the count. Surveillance records the entire drop process from removal through transport. (2) The secure locked container inside a slot machine where cash (bills) and TITO tickets are stored after being accepted by the machine. Drop boxes are collected on a regular schedule (typically daily) and transported to the count room for the soft count. Each drop box is uniquely identified and tracked, with its contents reconciled against the corresponding machine’s meter readings. Drop box design includes tamper-evident seals and dual-key security to prevent unauthorized access. (3) A locked metal container secured to a gaming table that receives cash buy-ins, chips, vouchers, and other gaming instruments deposited during play. Drop boxes are removed from tables by security personnel at scheduled intervals (typically at shift change) and transported to the count room for counting and revenue recording. Each drop box has a unique identification number and is secured with multiple locks requiring keys from different departments to open.

In practice

Drop box capacity is an operational consideration: high-denomination machines in high-traffic areas may require multiple daily collections. The term “making a drop” refers to collecting drop boxes from the floor. Drop box key control is among the most critical internal controls; no single employee may possess all keys needed to access a drop box. Drop boxes with automated drop meters can record the amount of cash inserted, providing an initial check against the actual count. Emergency drop boxes are used when standard boxes need replacement during a shift.

One entry from the Casino Industry Glossary, 1,090 terms written for surveillance, compliance and operations professionals rather than for players. Definitions describe industry usage; where a term carries a regulatory meaning, verify against the instrument that governs your jurisdiction.