13 Types of Traffic Control Devices and Equipment Checklist

Traffic control devices regulate traffic, warn people about hazards, and guide them along a route. They include stop signs, traffic signals, pavement markings, cones, drums, barricades, and electronic message boards.

The right equipment depends on what road users need to know or do. A sign warns drivers about a lane closure. Drums show the path through it. A flagger or temporary signal may control alternating traffic where only one lane remains open.

Below, compare 13 common device types, learn what to check before choosing them, and use the project checklists to prepare an equipment order. For roadway work, the applicable traffic control plan and agency requirements determine the layout, quantities, and specifications.

What Are Traffic Control Devices?

Traffic control devices can be permanent or temporary. Permanent installations support everyday travel, such as signals at an intersection and lane markings on a highway. Temporary devices guide people through changing conditions, including construction, maintenance, incidents, and approved event closures.

In the United States, the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices, or MUTCD, provides national standards for these devices. FHWA identifies the 11th Edition with Revision 1, dated December 2025, as the current national edition. Check the requirements adopted by your state and the agency responsible for the road. Our MUTCD by state guide explains state manuals and supplements.

“Traffic control equipment” is a broader purchasing term. An equipment order might also include sign stands, mounting hardware, safety clothing, or protective barriers. These products support the operation, but they do not all serve the same function as a traffic sign or signal.

Traffic Control Devices at a Glance

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13 Types of Traffic Control Devices and Their Uses

1. Traffic Signs

Traffic signs communicate rules, hazards, and directions through familiar words, symbols, colors, and shapes. The three main groups are regulatory signs, warning signs, and guide signs.

A STOP sign tells a driver to stop. A curve warning prepares the driver for a change in road alignment. A guide sign identifies a route or destination. Our guides to sign shapes and sign colors explain how those features help communicate the message.

Temporary signs serve the same basic functions during changing conditions. Most work-zone warning signs use black lettering or symbols on orange. Construction signs include roadwork warnings, lane-closure messages, and detour directions. Temporary regulatory signs, such as STOP or ROAD CLOSED signs, keep their applicable regulatory colors.

Before ordering, confirm the sign code or message, size, reflective sheeting, and mounting arrangement. Use our road sign sizes guide to compare dimensions, then match the selection to the road and project requirements.

2. Traffic Signals

Traffic signals control conflicting movements at intersections and crossings. Permanent systems handle everyday traffic. Temporary systems can manage certain work-zone operations, including traffic taking turns through a single open lane.

A complete system includes more than signal heads. Timing, detection, pedestrian movements, visibility, power, and coordination all affect how it operates. Opposing approaches need coordinated control so drivers do not receive conflicting instructions.

Compare the complete system specified by the designer or agency, including controllers, batteries or other power equipment, and maintenance support. Signal provisions appear in MUTCD Part 4.

3. Pavement Markings

Pavement markings define lanes, stopping points, crossings, and permitted movements. Examples include center lines, edge lines, stop lines, turn arrows, crosswalks, and raised pavement markers.

Paint, tape, thermoplastic, and other materials have different installation and maintenance needs. Choose for the pavement surface, traffic wear, application conditions, and expected service life. Temporary markings also need a removal plan.

When a traffic pattern changes, account for existing markings. Old lines and new lines should not give competing directions. Include surface preparation, removal, and replacement materials in the order. See MUTCD Part 3 for marking provisions.

4. Traffic Cones

Traffic cones provide portable guidance around temporary work areas and changing travel paths. Their stackable shape makes them practical for crews that repeatedly set up, move, and collect equipment.

Check height, reflective bands, base weight, and the conditions in which the cones will be used. An indoor maintenance cone is not automatically suitable for a roadway, and daytime visibility does not establish suitability for nighttime use.

For a large order, compare the total loading weight and storage space as well as the unit price. Cones help drivers recognize a boundary; they do not provide vehicle-impact protection.

5. Traffic Drums or Barrels

Traffic drums, also called construction barrels, outline temporary lanes and work-zone boundaries. Their wide bodies provide a larger visual target than slender markers.

Drums are useful where the traffic control plan calls for a more prominent channelizing device. Check the reflective bands, base or ballast system, and whether the quoted price includes both the drum and its base.

For reusable inventory, compare replacement shells and compatibility with your existing bases. Drums guide traffic around an area but should not be treated as protective barriers.

6. Tubular Markers and Delineators

Tubular markers guide traffic with a narrow upright profile. Roadside delineators help drivers follow a road's edge or alignment. Products range from portable weighted markers to permanently anchored posts.

The intended application matters more than the product name. A roadside delineator and a temporary lane-channelizing marker can have different specifications even when both use reflective material.

Check the mounting surface, base or anchor system, reflective area, and replacement method. For a permanent installation, consider how damaged posts will be replaced without rebuilding the entire assembly.

7. Vertical Panels

Vertical panels present a narrow reflective face with diagonal stripes. They guide traffic along a temporary path and may suit layouts where the specified device needs a smaller footprint than a drum.

Compare panel dimensions, reflective sheeting, stripe direction, and the complete support assembly. Stripe orientation needs to match the intended direction of passage.

Confirm whether you are buying a complete unit or a replacement panel. The base and support affect stability, handling, and the space occupied by the installation.

8. Barricades

Barricades mark closures and guide road users away from restricted areas. Type 1, Type 2, and Type 3 barricades have different rail arrangements; Type 3 barricades are commonly seen at road closures.

Check the specified type, rail width, reflective faces, supports, and ballast arrangements. Include any ROAD CLOSED signs called for by the plan so approaching drivers understand the restriction.

A barricade that marks a closure is different from a barrier designed to contain or redirect a vehicle. Water-filled products can also look similar while serving different purposes. FHWA explains these distinctions. Check the specific system and its intended use.

9. Arrow Boards

Arrow boards use illuminated displays to give prominent lane-closure or caution information. They supplement the other devices used in a temporary traffic-control setup.

Choose the specified board size, operating modes, trailer or mounting arrangement, and power system. The correct display depends on the operation; a directional arrow is not suitable for every work location.

For recurring projects, compare battery runtime, charging arrangements, transport needs, and service access. Assign responsibility for checking that the displayed direction or caution mode matches the active setup.

10. Portable Changeable Message Signs

Portable changeable message signs, often called message boards, communicate information that changes over time. Examples include upcoming closures, delays, detours, and changes to access.

Keep messages short and focused on what the driver needs to know or do. A large display is not a reason to add unnecessary words. Position and readability are as important as the number of characters available.

Check programming access, power capacity, remote-control options, and maintenance support. Agree on who can update the message and how outdated information will be removed.

11. Flashing Beacons and Warning Lights

Beacons and warning lights draw attention to specific conditions or devices. Applications include certain school-zone signs, warning signs, and temporary traffic-control installations.

These products are not all interchangeable. Match the color, flashing or steady-burn operation, visibility, and mounting system to the intended application.

Check power needs and operating schedules, including batteries, solar components, or controllers. Plan how crews will confirm that lights are operating when needed and are switched off when the condition no longer applies.

12. Flagging Devices

STOP/SLOW paddles let flaggers communicate instructions directly to approaching drivers. They are commonly used where traffic must alternate through a restricted section of road.

Check paddle size, reflective faces, handle length, and weight. A paddle must meet the applicable specification while remaining practical for the flagger to hold and operate throughout a shift.

Automated flagger assistance devices, or AFADs, allow a trained flagger to control a device remotely. They still require trained operation and are not unattended substitutes for a flagger.

Include the specified advance-warning signs. A Flagger symbol sign alerts drivers before they reach the flagger station.

13. Pedestrian Channelizing Devices

Pedestrian channelizing devices define temporary walking routes around construction and other obstructions. The route needs to work for people using wheelchairs and people with vision disabilities.

Check detectable edging, connections, stable supports, and usable passage width. Follow the route from start to finish, including building entrances, crossing points, and changes in elevation.

A row of cones or caution tape alone does not establish an accessible route. Include the specified pedestrian direction signs, suitable surfaces, and transitions. Temporary traffic-control provisions appear in MUTCD Part 6.

Related Traffic Safety Equipment

A complete equipment list often includes products beyond the devices above:

• Sign supports and hardware: Posts, stands, brackets, bolts, and bases keep signs mounted in the intended position. Compare hole patterns, sign dimensions, and support compatibility. Our sign posts category is a starting point for permanent mounting options, and our how to install a road sign guide walks through installation.
• Protective barriers and crash cushions: These address vehicle impacts. Selection depends on the tested system, installation conditions, and project design. Do not substitute a channelizing product based on appearance.
• Safety clothing and communication equipment: High-visibility clothing and radios support the people carrying out the operation. Include them in the crew equipment list.
• Speed bumps, speed humps, and parking stops: These are physical features with different purposes. FHWA distinguishes speed bumps and humps from traffic control devices in its MUTCD frequently asked questions.

Traffic Control Equipment Checklists by Project

Use these lists to prepare a quote request or check an equipment order against your project plan. Select the items required for the actual operation.

Roadwork and Utility Work

• Specified advance-warning, lane-closure, and detour signs.
• Compatible sign stands and supports.
• Cones, drums, panels, or barricades shown in the traffic control plan.
• Flagging equipment, arrow boards, signals, or message signs where specified.
• Pedestrian access provisions and any required protective systems.

Parking Lots and Facility Access

• Entrance, exit, directional, and parking signs, including no parking and reserved parking signs where spaces are restricted.
• Posts, brackets, and hardware for the selected signs.
• Pavement markings and surface preparation materials.
• Temporary closure devices for repairs or restricted areas.
• Clear pedestrian routes between parking spaces and destinations.

Events and Temporary Closures

• Approved closure, detour, and parking information, with matching road closed and detour signs.
• Specified barricades and channelizing devices.
• Pedestrian routing and accessible entrances.
• Emergency access arrangements.
• Equipment collection and reopening responsibilities.

Sidewalk Work and Pedestrian Detours

• Closure and direction signs at the relevant decision points, including pedestrian detour signs.
• Continuous, detectable pedestrian channelizing devices.
• Suitable temporary surfaces and curb transitions.
• Access to buildings, crossings, and transit stops.
• Inspection and maintenance of the temporary route.

Before You Order: Final Equipment Checklist

Check these details before submitting a purchase order or requesting a quote:

• Application: Identify the location, road users, operating hours, and expected project duration.
• Specifications: Match the equipment to the applicable plan, agency requirements, and product specifications.
• Sign details: Confirm each message or designation, size, material, reflective sheeting, and mounting-hole arrangement.
• Complete assemblies: Check whether bases, stands, rails, legs, brackets, bolts, and handles are included.
• Visibility: Account for daytime and nighttime operation when selecting reflective and illuminated products.
• Quantities: Use the project layout to calculate needs, then consider replacement stock and spare components.
• Compatibility: Confirm new components fit the equipment already in service.
• Power and controls: Include charging, programming, access permissions, and operating responsibility for electronic devices.
• Handling: Check storage space, transport capacity, assembled dimensions, and lifting needs.
• Delivery: Confirm availability, production time, receiving arrangements, and the required arrival date.
• Maintenance: Assign responsibility for inspections, cleaning, repairs, and replacement.
• Removal: Plan for collecting temporary equipment and restoring the intended traffic pattern.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between traffic control devices and equipment?

Traffic control devices communicate instructions and guide road users. Traffic control equipment is a broader term that can include those devices plus their supports, accessories, and equipment used by the crew.

Should I choose cones or drums?

Follow the project specification first. When alternatives are permitted, compare visibility, footprint, handling, storage, and the duration of the operation. Cones are convenient to move and stack. Drums provide a broader visual presence.

Does reflective material replace lighting?

Reflective material returns light toward its source. It does not illuminate an entire work area or walking route. Check the visibility requirements for each device and any separate lighting needs for the operation.

Does the MUTCD apply to private parking lots?

FHWA distinguishes parking spaces and their driving aisles from site roadways open to public travel. Parking areas and their aisles are excluded from federal MUTCD applicability, while publicly accessible roads on private property can be covered. A specific site's layout matters, and state or local requirements may also apply. See FHWA's explanation of private-road and parking-area applicability.

Can a product be “MUTCD approved”?

FHWA does not approve or endorse individual products as MUTCD compliant. “MUTCD compliant” describes conformity with the applicable provisions; it is not an FHWA product certification. Our MUTCD compliant signs collection includes standard designs. Confirm the required size, materials, and installation details for your application.

Choose Signs and Mounting Options for Your Project

Prepare a sign list with the required messages, sizes, quantities, and mounting locations. RoadSigns.com offers regulatory, warning, construction, parking, and custom signs, along with posts and mounting options.

Need help choosing? Contact our friendly, experienced team for help comparing sign sizes, reflective materials, and mounting options for your project.

Related Guides

• MUTCD 2026 Update: What Road Sign Buyers Need to Know
• MUTCD by State: Which Traffic Control Manual Applies Where
• Road Sign Sizes Explained: MUTCD Minimum, Standard & Oversized Signs
• How to Install a Road Sign

Sources

The individual MUTCD part links below are from the 2023 base edition. Use the current manual with Revision 1 and applicable state requirements when checking a specification.

• FHWA: Current MUTCD, 11th Edition with Revision 1.
• MUTCD Part 3: Markings (2023 base edition).
• MUTCD Part 4: Highway Traffic Signals (2023 base edition).
• MUTCD Part 6: Temporary Traffic Control (2023 base edition).
• FHWA: General Questions on the MUTCD.
• FHWA: Questions About Barriers and Related Roadside Safety Hardware.