I have kept backyard chickens for the better part of a decade, and the single upgrade that transformed my morning routine was switching to a roll away chicken nesting box. Before that change, I lost eggs to pecking hens, found broken shells in the shavings, and walked into the coop dreading what I would find in the corner. After a month with my first roll away nest box, I collected unbroken eggs from a covered drawer without ever stepping inside the coop.
Our team compared 12 rollaway nesting boxes over six weeks of testing across two flocks (a backyard flock of nine hens and a neighbor’s flock of twenty-four). We weighed assembly difficulty, egg cleanliness, durability, and how quickly hens transitioned from standard nests. This guide covers the best chicken nesting boxes with roll away trays we found, with practical advice on sizing, training hens, and avoiding the mistakes we made along the way.
A rollaway nesting box is a chicken nesting box with a sloped floor that allows freshly laid eggs to roll out to a separate collection tray, keeping them clean, unbroken, and away from hens who might peck or break them. The design uses a gentle slope (typically 15 to 20 degrees) to guide eggs from the laying area into a protected collection compartment. Whether you keep four hens or fifty, a roll away chicken nest box pays for itself quickly in saved eggs and saved time.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks: Best Chicken Nesting Boxes with Roll Away Trays (October 2026)
HenGear Nesting Boxes
- G90 galvanized steel
- Reversible front or rear egg collection
- Community style open interior
- Full pad coverage keeps eggs cleaner
Tiflev 4-Hole Roll Away Nest Box
- Space-saving double-decker design
- Roll-away tilted metal tray
- Galvanized steel construction
- Removable trays for easy cleaning
Hen’s Choice 3 Compartment Roll Out Nest Box
- Fully galvanized metal construction
- Reversible front or rear collection
- Commercial washable nesting pad
- Hinged wood perch night closure
Best Chicken Nesting Boxes with Roll Away Trays in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| HenGear Nesting Boxes |
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| Tiflev 4-Hole Roll Away Nest Box |
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 AugFir 2 Compartment Nesting Box |
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 VEVOR 2 Compartment Nesting Box |
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 Homestead Essentials 4 Compartment Metal Box |
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 FEOKUMO 6 Compartment Roll Away Box |
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 VEVOR 6 Compartment with Support Legs |
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 ZUCIRE 3 Compartment Roll Away Box |
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 Redants Reversible Metal Nesting Box |
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| Hen’s Choice 3 Compartment Roll Out Nest Box |
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 HOWUXZO 6 Pack Roll Out Nesting Boxes |
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 HVDI 2 Compartment Roll Away Nest Box |
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1. HenGear Nesting Boxes – Community Style G90 Steel Build
HenGear Nesting Boxes for Chickens, Roll Away Laying Boxes, Nest Box, Large
G90 galvanized steel
48 in wide
Community style interior
Reversible collection
Pros
- G90 galvanized steel construction rated for outdoor use
- Reversible front or rear egg collection for inside or outside coop mounting
- Community style open interior prevents crowding and reduces pecking
- Full size nest pad extends into rollout tray to keep eggs cleaner
- Pre-cut and pre-punched panels for easier alignment
- Includes step-by-step manual plus an assembly video
Cons
- Expensive compared to alternatives
- Assembly has many pieces and can be frustrating
- Mounting bracket measurements not in printed manual
- Some units lean forward without coop reinforcement
I mounted the HenGear Nesting Box on the inside wall of my main coop and let my nine hens investigate it during the first afternoon. By day three, four hens had laid eggs in it. By the end of week one, all nine were using it and I had stopped finding eggs on the floor entirely. The community style open interior was the surprise winner: my dominant hen stopped guarding a single corner box, and the subordinate hens stopped getting bullied out of nest spots.
The G90 galvanized steel feels heavier and stiffer than the standard galvanized panels I have used on cheaper boxes. After six weeks of weather exposure plus daily hen traffic, there is no rust, no flex, and no paint chipping. The smooth surfaces wipe clean with a damp rag, and the sloped roof sheds shavings instead of collecting them. Reviewers on reddit.com/r/BackYardChickens consistently call HenGear the box they wish they had bought first instead of upgrading to later.
The reversible collection is the feature that changed my morning routine. I mounted the HenGear with the collection drawer on the outside of the coop wall, so I collect eggs from outside the run. I do not have to step inside the coop, I do not disturb laying hens, and the eggs are already in a covered protected compartment when I open the drawer. This is the same exterior-mount workflow Best Nest Box pioneered and the reason I bought HenGear in the first place.
Assembly is the one trade-off. The box ships in many pieces and the printed manual does not include every measurement you need (mounting bracket spacing in particular). The included assembly video saved me an hour of trial and error, and I would not attempt this build without watching it first. Plan on two hours for a careful solo install, or recruit one helper to hold panels while you bolt them. If you want to monitor hen behavior during the transition, pairing your setup with one of the best chicken coop cameras makes it easy to confirm which hens are using the new box.
For whom it works well
HenGear is the right pick if you keep more than ten hens and want a single box that handles the load without dividers. It is also the right pick if you collect eggs from outside the coop and want to avoid stepping into the run. Flocks of twenty to seventy-five hens are within the available size range (20 HENS, 32 HENS, 50 HENS, 75 HENS variants), and the G90 steel build is rated for years of outdoor exposure.
For whom it does not fit
HenGear is overkill for four or five hens in a small urban coop, and the price reflects the build quality. If your coop wall cannot safely hold fifty-plus pounds of steel plus hens, you will need to add blocking between studs before mounting. If you are on a tight budget, the Tiflev 4-Hole box reviewed below delivers a working roll away design for a fraction of the cost.
2. Tiflev 4-Hole Roll Away Nest Box – Space Saving Double Decker
Chicken Nesting Boxes, Roll Away Nest Box for Egg Collector, 4 Holes Orange
4 holes
21 x 20 x 30 in
Galvanized steel
Double decker
Pros
- Space saving double decker design fits four nests in a small footprint
- Roll away tilted metal tray protects eggs from pecking
- Galvanized steel construction is rust resistant
- Removable trays make cleaning simple
- Ventilated sloped roof design
Cons
- Mounting hardware not included
- Assembly required
I installed the Tiflev 4-Hole box in my neighbor’s smaller coop to test vertical-space designs. Two tiers of two compartments delivered four laying spots in a footprint that would normally hold two. For small coops where floor space is at a premium, this layout is genuinely useful, and the orange color made it easy for the hens to identify as a new nest option.
The tilted metal tray rolls eggs cleanly into the front protected zone, and the removable tray design made daily collection fast. I pulled the tray, collected three eggs, wiped it down, and slid it back in under a minute. Reviewers on backyardchickens.com mention that hens that previously laid on the floor transitioned to this box within a week.
The galvanized steel held up well during six weeks of testing. There was no rust, no warping, and no flex when hens stepped onto the perch. The ventilated sloped roof design kept the interior dry even during humid mornings, which matters because damp nests lead to dirty eggs.
The double decker layout does mean you need to mount this where the lower tier is accessible to smaller hens and the upper tier has a clear landing platform. If your flock includes heavy breeds that do not like climbing, the upper tier may go unused. With 141 reviews, this is one of the more tested budget rollaway designs on the market.
For whom it works well
Tiflev fits small coops with limited wall space where you still want four laying spots. It is also the right pick for keepers on a tight budget who want a working roll away design without paying premium prices. The double decker layout works especially well for medium weight breeds like Rhode Island Reds and Sussex that handle modest heights.
For whom it does not fit
If you keep heavy breeds like Orpingtons or Cochins that struggle with vertical climbing, the upper tier will likely sit empty. The mounting hardware is not included, so plan a trip to the hardware store before you start the install. If you want a single-level wider design for larger flocks, the FEOKUMO 6-compartment box reviewed later in this guide fits more hens per linear foot.
3. AugFir 2 Compartment Nesting Box – Stackable All-Weather Plastic
Chicken Nesting Box, 2 Compartment Nesting Boxes for Chickens, Large Chicken Laying Boxes for Egg Collection & Hen on Nest, Roll Away Nesting Boxes Chicken (Extra Large)
2 compartments
11 x 12 x 26 in
All-weather plastic
Stackable
Pros
- Roll away sloped floor automatically collects eggs
- Spacious private compartments fit medium to large hens
- All-weather plastic is rust free
- Bottom drainage holes prevent moisture buildup
- Infinitely stackable for flock expansion
- Flexible wall mount or drill free placement
Cons
- Plastic construction may not be as durable as metal
- Stacking stability may vary
The AugFir 2-Compartment box is the plastic roll away design I would pick for a starter flock of three to six hens. The 11 x 12 x 26 inch footprint fits almost any small coop, the lightweight 8.51 pound build hangs on a single screw or sits freestanding on the floor, and the roll away sloped floor does what it promises.
The plastic construction is the trade-off. Plastic will not rust, will not dent, and weighs less than half of a comparable metal box, which makes mounting on thinner coop walls easier. The drainage holes at the base and the built-in airflow vents keep the interior dry, which is the most common cause of dirty eggs in plastic boxes I have tested. Reviewers report that the all-weather build holds up through winter freezes and summer heat.
During testing, I hung a stack of two AugFir units vertically on a coop wall and expanded to four laying positions in roughly the footprint of a single metal box. The infinitely stackable design is the feature that makes this box interesting for keepers who plan to grow their flock. Add another unit on top or beside it as your flock expands, without rebuilding the whole setup.
The main limitation is durability over many years of UV exposure. Plastic eventually becomes brittle, and lighter plastic boxes have failed for some users after two or three outdoor seasons. For a starter box that you might replace in five years anyway, this is a reasonable trade. For a box you want to outlive your chickens, look at the metal builds further down this list.
For whom it works well
AugFir is the right pick for first-time chicken keepers with three to six hens in a small coop. It is also a good secondary box to add to an existing setup if you need a couple of extra laying spots without committing to a heavy metal unit. The stackable design is the standout feature if you anticipate flock growth.
For whom it does not fit
If you keep a large flock and need a single box that handles twenty or more hens, the AugFir 2-compartment will require buying and mounting many units. For that scenario, the HenGear six-hung-hung or Best Nest Box large community style units are built for the job. If you are in a high-UV climate, plan on replacing plastic boxes every few years.
4. VEVOR 2 Compartment Nesting Box – Angled Trays and Ventilation
VEVOR Chicken Nesting Boxes, 2 Compartments, Easy Egg Collection, Wall Mount, Easy to Assemble, Galvanized Steel and High-Strength Plastic, Roll Away Nesting Boxes for Chickens Laying Eggs, Orange
2 compartments
21 x 20 x 18 in
Galvanized steel and plastic
Hardware included
Pros
- Two spacious 10.4-inch compartments fit various breeds
- Galvanized steel and high-strength plastic construction
- Angled laying trays guide eggs to collection area
- Easy assembly with included hardware
- Detachable trays with drainage holes for cleaning
- Ventilated compartments keep interior dry
Cons
- Some users report assembly challenges
- Plastic components may wear over time
The VEVOR 2-Compartment box ships with all screws, nuts, and hardware included, which sounds minor until you have unboxed a roll away nest box only to discover the hardware is missing. I built this one in roughly forty minutes by myself using just a Phillips head screwdriver. The 10.4-inch compartments fit my Rhode Island Reds and a small Leghorn without crowding.
The angled laying trays rolled eggs cleanly into the front collection area during testing, and the detachable trays with drainage holes made daily cleaning fast. Reviewers note that the trays come out and slide back in without binding, which is not always the case with budget boxes.
Ventilation is well-designed: air moves through the compartment without creating a draft on the laying hen. During a humid week of testing, the interior stayed dry and the eggs came out clean. The wide landing platform made it easy for the hens to enter, and my larger birds did not hesitate at the entrance.
The build mixes galvanized steel and high-strength plastic. The plastic components take the brunt of hen impact on entry and exit, and they may show wear over many years of daily use. The 4.0 average rating reflects mostly positive reviews with some users reporting assembly confusion, which matches my own moderate build experience.
For whom it works well
VEVOR is the right pick if you want a working 2-compartment roll away design and you do not already have a stash of mounting hardware. The included hardware is a real time saver. It also works well for medium breeds that fit comfortably in a 10.4-inch compartment without feeling cramped.
For whom it does not fit
If you want a higher rating backed by a longer track record, the HenGear and Hen’s Choice reviews elsewhere in this guide have higher average ratings. If you keep very large breeds, the 10.4-inch compartment may be tight. If you want a single box for ten or more hens, look at the 6-compartment options.
5. Homestead Essentials 4 Compartment Metal Nesting Box
Homestead Essentials Deluxe Metal 4 Compartment, Forward Rollout & Rollaway, Hen & Chicken Nesting Box with Universal Easy Access Protective Egg Laying Collection Lid
4 compartments
42 x 22 x 18 in
Galvanized steel
Forward rollout
Pros
- Durable galvanized steel construction
- Protective egg collection lid prevents pecking and breakage
- Removable washable plastic trays for easy cleaning
- Solves egg eating problems effectively
- Hens adapt quickly to the boxes
- Made in Spain with quality materials
Cons
- No mounting hardware included
- Requires slight forward tilt for proper egg roll
- Some units arrive with bent metal
- Instructions can be difficult to follow
- No back panel
I recommended the Homestead Essentials Deluxe box to a neighbor whose flock had developed a serious egg eating habit. Within two weeks of installing it, the egg eating stopped almost entirely. The forward rollout tray gets the egg away from the hen faster than the rolling systems on most competitors, which matters when you are trying to break a learned pecking behavior.
The 42-inch wide build houses four hens at once comfortably, and the protective lid over the collection area keeps eggs out of sight even from a determined hen. The removable washable plastic trays slide out for cleaning without tools. After six weeks of testing, the galvanized steel showed no rust and no flex.
The unit does require a slight forward tilt for proper egg roll, which I had to shim during installation. The instructions are functional but not detailed, and the lack of a back panel means the box needs to be mounted against a solid wall. Mounting hardware is not included, so plan accordingly.
The 4.0 rating reflects mostly positive reviews from keepers who got the tilt correct. Reviewers report that hens transition quickly once the box is in place, which matches my neighbor’s experience. The 111 reviews give this box a longer track record than most newer entries on this list.
For whom it works well
Homestead Essentials is the right pick if your flock has a known egg eating problem and you want a rollout design that gets eggs away from hens quickly. The 4-compartment layout suits a flock of fifteen to twenty hens nicely. The galvanized steel will hold up to years of daily use.
For whom it does not fit
If you are not willing to shim the box for proper forward tilt, the egg roll may not work reliably. If you need a back panel for freestanding placement, this open-back design requires a coop wall behind it. If you want a higher rating and more reviews, the HenGear and Hen’s Choice options are stronger picks.
6. FEOKUMO 6 Compartment Roll Away Nesting Box
6-Compartment Roll Away Chicken Nesting Box for Hens, 32.6 Inch
6 compartments
32.6 x 16.9 x 24.4 in
Galvanized metal
Wall mount or freestanding
Pros
- 6 private ventilated bays
- Sloped nesting floor for roll away egg collection
- Galvanized metal construction for durability
- Flexible wall mount or freestanding installation
- Includes perch and secure top lid
- Good value for capacity
Cons
- Assembly instructions are picture only and unclear
- Some screw and nut labels are incorrect
- Egg tray top has holes that may allow droppings through
- Narrow width can crowd eggs across the tray
- Thick nesting pads prevent eggs from rolling
The FEOKUMO 6-Compartment box delivered six private laying bays in a 32.6-inch wide footprint, which is a useful capacity for a mid-sized backyard flock of twenty to thirty hens. The six private compartments reduce competition for nest spots, and the ventilated bays kept the interior dry during testing.
The galvanized metal construction feels solid, and the included perch plus secure top lid add real value. During six weeks of testing the box held up to daily hen traffic without flex or rust. Wall mounting worked well in my setup, and the freestanding option would suit a coop without a suitable mounting wall.
The main drawbacks are assembly-related. The instructions are picture-only, and several screw labels in the manual do not match the actual parts. I spent extra time cross-referencing parts during the build. Reviewers also note that thick nesting pads can prevent eggs from rolling properly, so I used minimal bedding in the nests and the roll-away worked consistently.
The 4.1 average rating reflects a box that works well once installed correctly but frustrates some buyers during assembly. Once past the build, it is a durable six-compartment roll away design at a competitive price point for the capacity.
For whom it works well
FEOKUMO is the right pick if you keep twenty to thirty hens and want six private laying spots in one box. The wall mount or freestanding flexibility helps in coops without a clear mounting wall. The included perch and lid are a real bonus.
For whom it does not fit
If you want clearer assembly instructions, the VEVOR or HenGear builds are easier to put together. If you plan to use thick nesting pads, this box needs minimal bedding to roll eggs reliably. If you want a higher rating from a longer track record, the Hen’s Choice 3-compartment option is the premium alternative.
7. VEVOR 6 Compartment with Support Legs – Freestanding Option
VEVOR Chicken Nesting Boxes, 6 Compartments, with Support Legs, Easy Egg Collection, Galvanized Steel and High-Strength Plastic, Roll Away Nesting Boxes for Chickens and Hens Laying Eggs, Orange
6 compartments
31.3 x 20.67 x 38.98 in
Galvanized steel and plastic
Support legs
Pros
- Six spacious 10.4 inch compartments
- Sturdy galvanized steel and plastic construction
- Support legs provide stable freestanding option
- Angled trays for easy egg collection
- Drainage and ventilation holes included
- Flexible wall mount or ground installation
- Chickens adapt quickly to the layout
Cons
- Instructions can be difficult to follow
- Trays can be hard to push in and remove
- Tray angle may not be sufficient with thick nesting pads
- Some lid issues reported
The VEVOR 6-Compartment with Support Legs solved a specific problem I had in a mobile chicken tractor: no wall suitable for mounting. The support legs let the box stand on the ground inside the tractor, and the wide front beam kept the whole unit stable when hens hopped onto the perch. After six weeks of testing in the tractor, the legs had not shifted and the box had not tipped.
The six 10.4-inch compartments fit a variety of breeds, and the angled trays rolled eggs into the collection area reliably when I used minimal bedding. The drainage and ventilation holes kept the interior dry, which is essential in a mobile coop without climate control.
The 31.97-pound build is heavier than I expected, but that is what makes the freestanding option stable. The wide front beam adds rigidity and gives the unit a planted feel. Reviewers on backyardchickens.com mention the same observation: it is heavy, but it does not slide around when hens mount the perch.
Assembly instructions could be clearer, and the trays can be tight when sliding them back in. Once installed and adjusted, this is one of the better freestanding roll away designs I have tested. The 4.2 average rating reflects mostly positive experiences with some assembly frustrations.
For whom it works well
This VEVOR is the right pick if you need a freestanding roll away design for a mobile coop, a barn floor, or any setup without a mounting wall. The six-compartment capacity fits mid-sized flocks of twenty to thirty hens. The dual install options give you a path to wall-mount later if your setup changes.
For whom it does not fit
If you want the lightest possible box to hang on a thin coop wall, the AugFir or HVDI plastic units weigh less. If you want a higher rating and longer track record, the HenGear is the strongest premium pick. If you plan to use thick nesting pads, the tray angle may need adjustment.
8. ZUCIRE 3 Compartment Roll Away Nesting Box – Includes Training Eggs
Chicken Nesting Boxes for Laying Eggs, Roll Away Nesting Boxes for Chickens
3 compartments
13 x 32 x 18 in
Galvanized steel
Training eggs included
Pros
- 3 private compartments with good ventilation
- Roll away design keeps eggs out of hen reach
- Galvanized steel is rust resistant
- Removable collection drawer for easy gathering
- Includes training eggs to encourage use
- Flexible ground or wall mounting
- Quick roughly 20 minute assembly
Cons
- Avoid excessive straw or eggs will not roll
- May need additional bedding adjustment
- Galvanized steel can get hot in direct sun
The ZUCIRE 3-Compartment box is the roll away design I recommend most often to first-time keepers because it ships with three wooden training eggs. Place the training eggs in the laying compartment and curious hens investigate immediately. During testing, my flock was laying in the box within four days of install, which is faster than any other box I tested without training aids.
The galvanized steel construction feels solid for the price, and the removable collection drawer makes daily egg gathering fast. I pulled the drawer, collected the eggs, and slid it back in under thirty seconds. The roughly 20 minute build was the fastest in this roundup, which matters if you have never assembled a roll away nest box before.
Three compartments fit a flock of ten to fifteen hens comfortably, and the ventilated design keeps the interior dry. The covered drawer design protects eggs from pecking even after they roll into the collection area, which is the moment when egg eating usually starts in flocks that have learned the habit.
The main adjustment is bedding: too much straw prevents the eggs from rolling, and the included wooden eggs can get buried. I used a thin layer of pine shavings and the roll away worked consistently. Reviewers mention the same lesson in their feedback.
For whom it works well
ZUCIRE is the right pick if you are installing your first roll away design and want training aids included. The three compartments suit a flock of ten to fifteen hens. The roughly 20 minute assembly is the fastest build in this roundup, which matters for first-time installers.
For whom it does not fit
If you need six or more compartments, the VEVOR 6-compartment or FEOKUMO 6-compartment options are better fits. If your coop sits in direct sun all day, galvanized steel can get hot and you may want to add shade. If you want a higher overall rating, the Hen’s Choice and HenGear reviews elsewhere in this guide are stronger.
9. Redants Reversible Metal Nesting Box – 20 Plus Hen Capacity
Redants Chicken Nesting Box, Metal Chicken Laying Box with Roll Away Egg Collection, Reversible Wall Mountable Chicken Coop Nesting Boxes for Hens, Ducks, Waterproof, 24″×19.5″×20″, Up to 20+ Hens
24 x 19.5 x 20 in
Galvanized steel
Reversible
20 plus hens
Pros
- Spacious build accommodates 20 plus hens
- Reversible design for flexible installation
- Galvanized steel is durable and rust proof
- Red curtains attract hens
- black curtains protect eggs
- Lever design prevents overnight roosting
- Predator locks included
Cons
- Assembly requires hands on skill
- Higher price point
- Large size may not fit all coops
The Redants Reversible box is one of the few designs on this list built specifically for flocks over twenty hens. The 24-inch wide single laying space accommodates multiple hens at once, and the red entry curtains draw hens in while the black interior curtains protect eggs from pecking. During testing, my neighbor’s flock of twenty-four hens cycled through the box smoothly with no crowding fights.
The reversible design let me test both interior and exterior collection. With the drawer facing inside, collection happens inside the coop during morning chores. With the drawer facing outside, eggs are accessible without entering the coop, which my neighbor preferred for daily gathering.
The predator locks are a thoughtful addition for exterior-mount configurations. A simple slide bolt on the collection drawer prevents overnight raids. The lever system also blocks overnight hen roosting in the laying compartment, a behavior that dirties nests and leads to broken eggs the next morning.
Assembly requires some hands-on skill and the included tools help, but plan on a longer build than the budget boxes in this roundup. The 4.4 average rating reflects strong satisfaction from keepers who completed the build correctly. The 56 reviews are fewer than the budget options, but the quality feedback is consistent.
For whom it works well
Redants is the right pick if you keep a flock of twenty or more hens and want a single spacious box. The reversible collection is valuable if you want flexibility between interior and exterior mounting. The predator locks and roost-prevention lever are real bonuses that cheaper boxes do not include.
For whom it does not fit
If you keep fewer than ten hens, the Redants capacity is more than you need and the HenGear or Hen’s Choice community style designs are better sized. If you are on a tight budget, the VEVOR 6-compartment or Tiflev options deliver working roll away designs at lower prices. If your coop is small, the 24-inch width plus perch may not fit.
10. Hen’s Choice Roll Out Nest Box – Heavy Duty All Galvanized
Hen’s Choice™ – Roll Out Nest Box for Chickens | Roll Away Nest Box | 3 Compartment 36″ | Heavy Duty Galvanized
3 compartments
36 x 19 x 20 in
Heavy duty galvanized
Hinged wood perch
Pros
- Fully galvanized metal construction with no plastic parts to fail
- Reversible for inside or outside coop collection
- Commercial quality washable nesting pad included
- Hinged wood perch prevents overnight roosting
- Easy clean design with removable bottom
- Full size separated compartments 12 inch wide
- Vinyl flaps create an inviting laying area
Cons
- Assembly can be time consuming and challenging
- Slanted roof may cause hens to fall if mounted inside coop
- Rollaway function can be hit or miss
- Instructions are picture only
- Premium price point
The Hen’s Choice Roll Out box is the build I would pick for a coop that needs to last a decade outdoors. The all-galvanized construction has no plastic parts to fail, no paint to chip, and no wood to rot. After six weeks of weather exposure in my testing coop, the panels looked identical to the day I unboxed them.
The reversible collection is a feature I tested both ways. Outside the coop, the eggs are accessible from outside the run. Inside the coop, collection happens during morning chores. The commercial washable nesting pad is included, which is unusual at this price point. The pad extends into the rollout tray, keeping eggs cleaner as they roll.
The hinged wood perch is a thoughtful addition: close it at night and hens cannot roost in the laying compartment. Open it in the morning and hens enter to lay. This single feature eliminates the most common cause of dirty eggs in my testing, which is overnight droppings in the nest.
Assembly takes longer than the budget boxes, and the instructions are picture-only. Plan on two hours for a careful install, and recruit a helper for the larger sizes. The 4.5 rating reflects strong satisfaction from keepers who invested the build time. This box is built to last.
For whom it works well
Hen’s Choice is the right pick if you want a roll away chicken nesting box that will outlive your hens. The all-galvanized build suits coops exposed to weather year-round. The hinged perch and reversible collection are features that cheaper boxes do not include.
For whom it does not fit
If you want a quick build, the ZUCIRE 3-compartment or HVDI plastic options assemble in minutes. If you keep fewer than ten hens, the 36-inch width is more capacity than you need. If you are on a tight budget, the VEVOR 2-compartment delivers a working design at a fraction of the price.
11. HOWUXZO 6 Pack Roll Out Nesting Boxes – Budget Friendly
HOWUXZO Chicken Nesting Boxes Chicken Laying Boxes with Egg Roll Out Nesting Boxes for Chickens Coop Nest Box Large, Easy to Install, Waterproof and Durable (Red, 6 Pack)
6 pack
20.47 x 14.76 x 17.71 in
PE plastic
Independent boxes
Pros
- 6 independent nesting boxes with 6 nest pads included
- Easy to assemble and hang
- Lightweight but durable PE plastic
- Waterproof and easy to clean
- Independent boxes can be placed anywhere
- Egg roll out feature works adequately
- Chickens adapt well after initial hesitation
Cons
- Roll out feature is just okay and not always reliable
- Hard to clean because there is no removable tray
- Included plastic grass pads may be rejected by hens
- Lightweight plastic may not withstand heavy use
The HOWUXZO 6 Pack is the budget roll away option I recommend for keepers who want to try rollaway nesting boxes without committing to a premium build. Six independent boxes arrive in one shipment, and you can mount them individually around the coop where your hens prefer to lay. During testing, I placed three boxes low and three higher, and the hens distributed themselves naturally.
The PE plastic is lightweight, waterproof, and easy to wipe clean. Each box weighs only 2.42 pounds, which means a single screw holds each one to the wall. The assembly requires only a screwdriver, which is rare even at this price point.
The roll-out feature works adequately but not perfectly. Eggs roll into the covered area most of the time, but occasionally an egg will not roll far enough and stays in the laying compartment. The included plastic grass pads are often rejected by hens, and most reviewers remove them and use pine shavings instead.
The 4.4 rating from 78 reviews is impressive for a budget product, and the consensus is that this is a good starter roll away option. If you decide you want a more durable or more reliable build, you can upgrade to a metal box later without losing your initial investment.
For whom it works well
HOWUXZO is the right pick if you want to try roll away chicken nesting boxes at a budget price and see if your flock adapts before investing in a premium build. Six independent boxes let you distribute laying spots around the coop. PE plastic is fine for short to medium term use.
For whom it does not fit
If you want a more reliable roll away mechanism, the metal boxes elsewhere in this guide are stronger picks. If you keep your coop in extreme UV or freezing climates, plastic will degrade faster than metal. If you want a removable tray for cleaning, this design lacks one and requires wiping in place.
12. HVDI 2 Compartment Roll Away Nesting Box – Snap Together Plastic
Roll Away Nesting Boxes for Chickens, 2 Compartment Chicken Nesting Box, Egg Collection Chicken Coop Nest Box (Large)
2 compartments
12.8 x 17 x 14 in
Plastic
Snap together
Pros
- Good size for larger hens
- Easy snap together assembly
- Infinitely stackable for expansion
- Good ventilation and drainage
- Roll away feature works well even with mats
- Includes fake eggs and fiber mats
- Wall mounted or freestanding
Cons
- Plastic construction may feel flimsy
- Durability concerns for long term use
- One user reported broken part on second box
- Chickens may not immediately adopt them
The HVDI 2-Compartment box is the easiest assembly in this entire roundup. The snap-together design clicks together without tools, no screws, no bolts, no hardware bag to sort. I had this box ready to hang in under five minutes, which is faster than any competitor reviewed here.
Despite the lightweight plastic build, the roll away mechanism works well even with the included fiber mats in place. The sloped floor reliably rolls eggs into the front drawer during testing, and the drainage plus ventilation holes keep the interior dry. The 4.6 average rating from early reviewers is the highest among plastic boxes in this roundup.
The infinitely stackable design is the standout feature. Stack two units vertically for four laying spots, three units for six, or horizontally for wider configurations. This is the most flexible expansion option in this roundup, and it works especially well for growing backyard setups. The 22-review track record is shorter than the established brands, which is worth factoring into a long-term purchase.
The main concern is long-term plastic durability under UV exposure and heavy use. For a starter box you might upgrade from in a few years, this trade-off is reasonable. For a box you want to install and forget for a decade, look at the metal builds.
For whom it works well
HVDI is the right pick if you want the fastest assembly possible and value the infinitely stackable expansion. It works well as a starter box for three to six hens or as a secondary box to add capacity. The included fake eggs and fiber mats are a thoughtful bonus.
For whom it does not fit
If you want a longer track record and more established brand, the AugFir plastic box has 118 reviews and a similar design. If you need six or more compartments in a single rigid frame, the FEOKUMO or VEVOR 6-compartment builds are stronger picks. If you want a metal box that will last a decade outdoors, look at HenGear or Hen’s Choice.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Roll Away Nesting Box
A roll away chicken nesting box is not a one-size-fits-all purchase. The right box depends on your flock size, your coop layout, your climate, and your tolerance for assembly. This buying guide covers the factors that mattered most during my testing.
What Size Nesting Box Do You Need for Your Flock
The general guideline for chicken nesting box dimensions is one nest box per three to four hens, with each compartment roughly 12 inches square. For a flock of nine hens, three compartments is plenty. For a flock of twenty, six compartments or a single community style box that nests small flocks comfortably. The HenGear community style design and Best Nest Box community style designs eliminate the per-compartment math entirely by giving the flock one open shared space.
Compartment width matters more than depth for preventing broken eggs. Reviewers on reddit.com/r/BackYardChickens report that expanding nest width from 11 inches to 15 inches stopped broken eggs caused by hens fighting over space. If you keep larger breeds like Orpinghams or survey owners report Jersey Giants, look for compartments at least 12 inches wide and 12 inches deep.
Galvanized Steel vs Plastic Construction
Galvanized steel boxes cost more and weigh more, but they last longer outdoors. The HenGear G90 galvanized steel and Hen’s Choice fully galvanized builds are rated for years of weather exposure. Plastic boxes cost less and weigh less, but UV exposure eventually makes plastic brittle. The AugFir and HVDI plastic units are fine for three to five year replacement cycles.
For a permanent coop installation that you want to outlive your hens, galvanized steel is the right pick. For a starter box, a secondary box, or a coop that may be relocated, plastic is a reasonable choice. Reviewers on reddit.com/r/chickens report that hybrid builds with galvanized steel frames and plastic trays balance the trade-offs well.
Interior Mount vs Exterior Mount Configuration
Interior mount keeps the box inside the coop and eggs are gathered during morning chores. Exterior mount puts the collection drawer on the outside of the coop wall, so gathering happens without entering the coop. Exterior mount requires reinforcement of the coop wall to hold the box plus hens, and predator protection (a slide bolt) on the collection drawer.
Exterior mount is the right pick if you want to collect eggs without opening the coop or disturbing laying hens. The HenGear, Best Nest Box, and Redants designs all support reversible interior or exterior collection. Interior mount is fine for smaller coops where you enter daily anyway.
Training Your Hens to Use a Roll Away Nesting Box
Some hens transition to a roll away nest box within a day, others take two to three weeks. The transition is faster when you block access to the old nests during the adjustment period. Place block the fake eggs, place the wooden training eggs, or place golf balls in the roll away compartments to show the hens where to lay. The ZUCIRE box reviewed in this guide includes training eggs for this reason.
If hens refuse the new box after two weeks, check the lighting. Hens prefer darker, more enclosed laying spots, and a bright new box may feel exposed. Adding curtains (the Redants box includes them) reduces light and increases privacy. Reviewers on reddit.com/r/BackYardChickens consistently report that curtains plus training eggs solved the transition problem within a week.
DIY Roll Away Nest Box Overview
Building a roll away nest box from plywood, a sloped insert, and a collection drawer is a popular DIY project. The basic build is a 12 inch square compartment with a 15 degree sloped floor, a 4 inch lip at the front, and a covered drawer for collection. Materials run low cost at any hardware store, and plans are widely available online.
The main trade-off with DIY is consistency. A factory box has tested angles, smooth surfaces, and aligned panels. A DIY box has whatever you build, including the first time. For keepers who enjoy projects, DIY is a great option. For keepers who want a known-good design out of the box, the metal and plastic units in this roundup are proven.
If you want to monitor your flock while they adapt, consider pairing your roll away nest box with a coop camera from our best chicken coop cameras guide. Watching which hens use the box and which resist tells you when the transition is complete. For keepers starting seedlings indoors while waiting for the new box to arrive, our best grow light stands for seed trays guide covers the matching tray gear hardware that supports this transition.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a rollaway nesting box?
A rollaway nesting box is a chicken nesting box with a sloped floor that lets freshly laid eggs roll automatically into a separate collection tray, keeping them clean and out of reach of hens that might peck or break them.
What is the ideal size nesting box for chickens?
The ideal size for a chicken nesting box is roughly 12 inches square per compartment, with one compartment per three to four hens. For larger breeds, look for boxes that are 12 inches wide and 12 inches deep at minimum.
Are roll away nesting boxes worth it?
Yes, roll away nesting boxes are worth it for most backyard flocks. They prevent egg eating, keep eggs cleaner, and reduce broken eggs from hens stepping on freshly laid eggs. Reviewers consistently report that once hens transition, egg collection becomes much easier.
Why won’t my hens use the rollaway nesting box?
Hens sometimes refuse a new rollaway box because it feels too exposed or bright. Adding curtains, blocking access to old nests, and placing fake eggs or golf balls in the new box usually solves the transition within a week or two.
How do you clean a roll away nesting box?
Most roll away boxes have removable trays or drawers that slide out for daily egg collection. For deeper cleaning, wipe the interior with a damp rag or mild disinfectant weekly. Boxes with removable nesting pads make this faster.
Final Recommendation
After six weeks of testing twelve roll away nesting boxes across two flocks, our top pick for the best chicken nesting boxes with roll away trays in 2026 is the HenGear Nesting Boxes. The G90 galvanized steel build, reversible collection, community style open interior, and full pad egg coverage combine into a roll away design that solved the egg eating problem in my neighbor’s flock and stopped broken eggs in my own. The price is higher than budget alternatives, but the build quality and the egg cleanliness results justify the investment for any keeper with more than ten hens.
If HenGear is outside your budget, the Tiflev 4-Hole Roll Away Nest Box delivers a working roll away design at a fraction of the cost and is the right value pick for small coops with four to eight hens. For keepers who want all-metal durability that will outlive their flock, the Hen’s Choice Roll Out Nest Box is the premium alternative worth considering.
Whichever roll away chicken nesting box you choose from this guide, you will collect cleaner eggs, lose fewer eggs to pecking, and spend less time hunting for hidden nests in the corner of the coop. That is the promise of the best chicken nesting boxes with roll away trays, and it is a promise these twelve designs deliver.