16 Best Garage Shelving Ideas for 2024 – Top Rated!
What are the benefits of organizing your garage with the best garage shelving ideas?
When it comes to organizing your garage, finding and installing the best garage shelving can be a game changer. Not only will it maximize your storage space, but it will also provide easy access to your tools and equipment. With proper shelving, you can say goodbye to clutter and hello to efficiency.
Having increased storage space allows you to store your items in an organized manner. No more digging through piles to find what you need. Additionally, having easy access to your tools and equipment means you can quickly locate and retrieve them when needed, saving you time and frustration.
By implementing clever shelving ideas, you can transform your garage into a functional and well-organized space.
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DIY or buy it pre-made?
If you’re not a very handy person, don’t have a lot of tools or experience building stuff, or just don’t want to learn the needed skills right now, then definitely go with pre-made shelving.
The cost of getting tools and materials, which aren’t cheap, will cost more than purchasing pre-made, not to mention how much time you’ll save.
When buying pre-made shelving, the big-box home improvement stores tend to have the best prices. Plus it’s super fun to check them out in person, opening the doors and drawers, and seeing how well-made it is.
Where to buy garage shelving:
- Amazon
- Lowe’s
- Home Depot
- Menards
However, if you already have basic skills and some helpful tools and want to tackle a new project, we encourage you to DIY! You’ll find some great tips and videos below to help.
Which garage shelving is best?
The best garage shelving for your particular space depends on a few things
- Amount of space available and layout of space
- Needs and wants
- Garage environment
Amount of Space Available
First, determine the amount of space you actually have available for storage. What is your garage space used for – parking one or two vehicles, laundry room, toys, and sporting equipment?
Determine space available for storage by measuring with all other items still in the garage. Measure around the car(s) that are usually parked in the car and any other items that will not be stored in the shelving you are installing.
Open all doors to any car(s) you park in the garage and start measuring. You don’t want to install shelving and realize you can’t open the car door wide enough to get in or out!
Needs & Wants
Now, let’s spend a few minutes thinking about the true needs and wants of your specific situation.
Be sure to answer these questions:
Are you able or do you want items stored overhead? This will require using a ladder and lifting items so be sure you can physically do this if you choose high shelving.
Which of these types of storage will work in your space?
- Along the side walls
- In front of parked vehicles
- Wall-mounted
- Suspended from the ceiling
Garage Environment
The environment of your garage should be taken into consideration when determining the location of storage shelving and the type of shelving material.
Is the garage floor ever wet? If the garage floor isn’t sloped properly, rainwater may come into the garage causing the floor to be wet.
Is the garage door sealed well? If water comes in the sides or under the garage door, checking into making it weathertight might be prudent before spending money on storage.
What is the best material to use for garage shelves?
Once you know where the storage will be located in the garage and what style of shelving you want to use, it’s time to consider the materials for the shelving.
Storage shelving and cabinetry material choices include metal, wood, and plastic.
Metal Shelving
The metal cabinetry being made today is amazingly useful in garage storage spaces. Options include locking units, adjustable heights, moveable units with wheels, and so on.
Wood Shelving
Wood is so classic that you can’t really go wrong using this material for any shelving or cabinetry. If you are going the DIY route, this will be your pick.
Plastic Shelving
Plastic is lighter weight, usually easy and simple to put together, and requires only one person. It also tends to be the cheapest.
But check our picks below because even metal storage is now easier to assemble and one person can do it!
Choose the materials for your garage storage shelving
Several factors can help determine which material you choose, and maybe you’ll use multiple types.
Answering these questions will help you make a final choice. Remember that you can choose multiple options!
What materials do you like?
Our personal preferences are metal and wood. In our garage, we have multiple storage shelving solutions:
- Wooden shelving – wall-mounted and freestanding, cabinets, and workbenches that Joe has built
- Purchased metal rolling cabinetry for auto mechanic tools
- Purchased freestanding metal shelving
We even utilize overhead space in the garage with the help of a simple piece of plywood!
What is your budget?
Knowing your budget will keep you from overspending. Don’t fall in love with a beautiful, completely organized wall unit way over your budget!
Is your garage a damp environment?
Take into account if your garage stays damp, has mold issues, or doesn’t drain well when a car comes in wet and drips. If any of these issues affect your garage, wood will not be the best choice.
What are you planning to store?
The weight of items you plan to store in the garage will also help determine the shelving material. Heavy items will need strong wood or metal, while lightweight stuff may be fine on plastic.
Types of garage shelving
There are three types of garage shelving to consider, and you may want to use a different type in different areas of the garage.
- Freestanding
- Wall-mounted
- Cabinet
Freestanding
Freestanding shelving units are those that stand freely on the floor. This makes stored items easily accessible, but the units’ width depends on how much room is around vehicles parked in the garage. You don’t want to limit the room you have to get in and out of vehicles or damage car doors.
Always secure freestanding units to the wall for safety so they don’t tip over. Look for an anti-tip bracket or kit, or use a plumber’s strap for whatever size you need. It’s very cheap and super strong!
Wall-Mounted
Wall-mounted shelving is exactly what it sounds like; it is shelving or cabinetry attached to the studs in the wall.
These clever shelving solutions use the vertical space on your garage walls, allowing you to store items efficiently and clear your floor.
The only downside to wall-mounted storage is that if it’s higher than the vehicles or overhead, a ladder will be needed to access it and possibly moving a car – which isn’t exactly handy.
Cabinet
Cabinet-style storage is so nice because stored items are hidden and stay cleaner.
We especially like the additional drawer and worktop options.
Make final storage option choices
Using the above criteria, narrow down the best locations and shelving types for your garage.
You need to know exactly
- Where you will be placing storage shelving
- What type of storage options you will be using in each location – freestanding, wall-mounted, or cabinets
- What material will the shelving be composed of
Whatever shelving units or cabinets you choose, plan to install them at least a few inches off the floor. Freestanding units or floor-level cabinetry can be placed on top of blocks. Getting the shelving off garage floors will create a buffer in the event of standing water or flooding.
Best Garage Shelving Options
No matter how much storage space you need, we have great recommendations for the perfect garage storage solutions for your space.
Our Top Picks of Wall-Mounted Shelving for the Garage
By utilizing wall-mounted shelving solutions, you can maximize your garage storage space and keep your tools and equipment easily accessible.
DIY Wall-Mounted Shelving
1. Ultimate Garage Storage
This plan by Modern Builds is the best idea for garage shelving units for a DIYer. The workbench that’s included in the middle of the unit, along with the perfect sizing for the storage bins and specialized area for work clothes, is a fabulous all-in-one solution.
Joe especially likes how they made the most use of that wall, going floor to ceiling and utilizing all the available space.
2. DIY Overhead Storage
For ceiling-mounted shelves, this DIY how-to from Crafted Workshop shows a great plan if the only space you have is above vehicles.
The negative part is needing a ladder to access items in storage. It’s also not the easiest mounting, so you’ll definitely need a second person to help!
Best Wire Shelves
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3. FLEXIMOUNTS Storage Rack
Great for high storage because it’s faster and easier than DIY, and likely much cheaper than the materials to build yourself.
Great for high storage because it’s faster and easier than DIY, and likely much cheaper than the materials to build yourself.
Pros:
- Made of heavy gauge steel
- Weight limit – 400 lbs
- Uses higher-quality screws
- All hardware included
- One person installation
4. PLKOW Garage Wall Shelving
Perfect for overhead or above car level storage, easy to install, and very strong.
Perfect for overhead or above car level storage, easy to install, and very strong.
Pros:
- Includes hooks for hanging bikes or other items
- 2-pack
- Weight limit – 250 lbs per unit
- Powder-coated steel so won’t rust
5. MonsterRax Garage Wall Shelf
Multiple options for sizes and colors, and it comes with hooks for hanging items!
Pros:
- 3 sizes & 2 colors available
- 2-pack with hooks
- 250 lb per shelf
- 18” deep – a good size
Our Top Picks of Freestanding Shelving for the Garage
Pre-made freestanding shelves are quick and easy to set up and can be moved around until you find the best location. The con is these are not self-leveling, so they may not sit securely.
You can also make your own shelving, and we’ve also shared some great DIY info for those who want to tackle this project themselves!
DIY Freestanding Shelves
If you’re interested in DIY-ing shelving for the garage, check our list of tools you’ll need to create the best garage shelving for your space!
6. Easy DIY Garage Shelves
Fix This Build That shows a good how-to for a larger unit, but you will need some basic building knowledge – using power tools, accurate cutting, and attaching pieces together properly. Note: In this video, he attaches the unit to the wall. This is optional, as you can leave it as a free-standing unit.
7. Cheap and Easy DIY Garage Shelves
Joe especially loves this DIY from Pneumatic Addict because the plan makes good use of materials, using only one sheet of plywood for the entire unit.
Best Metal & Wood Freestanding Shelves
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8. IRONCK Industrial Style Shelves
This shelving unit has vertical metal tracks with wooden shelves, an aesthetically pleasing combination. It’s also narrow, so if you’re limited on side space for opening car doors, then this is the perfect choice.
Pros:
- Easy to assemble
- 160 lbs per shelf
- Metal frame for strength
- Fits narrow spaces
The description states the depth is 11.8”, so it’s probably a little over 12”, including the metal frame. Always take this into consideration when determining the size that will fit your intended space.
9. FLEXIMOUNTS 3-Tier Metal Storage Shelf
These super sturdy metal shelves are adjustable and can be combined with other units to create a custom shelving system for specific shelf length and spacing needs.
Pros:
- Only one tool is needed for assembly – a wrench
- Plastic foot pads to protect the floor from scratches
- Well-designed support for up to 1550 pounds per shelf, for a total weight capacity of 4650 pounds
The downside to this particular shelf system is that it is not stackable. If vertical storage is a necessity for your garage, then make sure you invest in shelving that allows for utilizing wall space going up!
10. Amazon Basics Storage Shelving
These budget-friendly wire racks come in multiple options with 2 to 5 shelves and a narrow version to fit most spaces. Wheels are also available to make these shelves easy to move around.
These budget-friendly wire racks come in multiple options with 2 to 5 shelves and a narrow version to fit most spaces. Wheels are also available to make these shelves easy to move around.
Pros:
- Made of steel with a chrome finish coating, good for damp environments
- Tool-free assembly
- Adjustable feet for leveling
- Shelves are adjustable in 1-inch increments
Cons:
- Lower weight capacity than other options – 350 lbs per shelf
I use these shelves in our utility closet and have found them to be one of the best solutions for organizing various supplies, like that tool bag that’s supposed to stay in the house. (I’m looking at you, Joe!)
11. HealSmart Foldable Shelving
This shelf is made of iron for durability, and I appreciate the positive review given that the well-made caster wheels make it easy to move. Multiple shelf options including 3, 4, or 5 shelves to fit a variety of needs.
Pros:
- Simple assembly – just unfold and set in place. The manufacturer states it only takes 5 seconds to set up!
- Professional grade caster wheels for easy moving & durability
Cons:
- Lower weight capacity than other options – 250 lbs per shelf
Best Plastic Shelving Units
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12. IRIS Shelving Unit
Plastic freestanding storage units can be a great choice for garage organization. They are lightweight, easy to assemble, and have a nice shelf height perfect for larger items.
Plastic freestanding storage units can be a great choice for garage organization. They are lightweight, easy to assemble, and have a nice shelf height perfect for larger items.
Pros:
- Snap together assembly – no tools required
- Made of recycled materials
- Multiple shelf options, 2 to 4 shelves, wide or narrow
Cons:
- Plastic shelves have a lower weight capacity than metal or wood – 40 lbs per shelf
We currently have this exact shelf on our back porch, mostly as a space for cat beds! 🐈⬛We’ve had it for a long time, at least 15 years, and have moved it for use in many locations, including the laundry room, shed, garage, and now the back porch. So muli-purpose and easy to move.
13. CX Heavy Duty Shelving Unit
This heavy-duty plastic shelving unit is the best value for organizing a storage space. It’s lightweight enough that one person can put it together without the use of any tools. It’s great for bulky items and larger containers and holds eight of these 27-gallon containers made by the same company. A great, all-purpose, affordable storage system!
This heavy duty plastic shelving unit is the best value for organizing a storage space. It’s lightweight enough one person can put it together without the use of any tools.
Pros:
- Good weight capacity for plastic shelving – 200 lbs per shelf
- Made in the USA with recycled materials
- Can attach multiple units together for additional depth or width
- Adjustable feet
- Includes wall mounting brackets
Our Top Picks of Cabinet-Style Storage Units
I’ll admit that cabinet-style storage is my favorite, and I consider this type to be the best garage shelving available. I like things being neat and tidy and having doors to hide it all and keep out dirt is a win-win. Here are some great options for storage cabinets, from budget-friendly plastic to the dreamy, live-your-best-life-perfect garage transformation.
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Metal Cabinet Storage Units
Metall cabinets are among the most functional styles of garage shelving. They are gorgeous and define the ideal garage organization setup. However, they are definitely pricier than all other options!
For safety, securing any storage cabinets to the wall is recommended. If shelving units are not shipped with hardware, find wall brackets that will attach to the shelving unit and secure to wall studs in at least two places for smaller or lighter shelves and more attachments for bigger or heavier units.
14. NewAge Garage Cabinets
The storage capacity of this all-in-one unit will turn your garage into a functional space that’s a dream to work in. Perfect for large or small items, all tools, and even heavy equipment.
This unit is an all-in-one, but there are also other options available on the manufacturer’s site.
The storage capacity of this all-in-one unit will turn your garage into a functional space that’s a dream to work in. Perfect for large or small items, all tools, and even heavy equipment.
Available features for NewAge garage cabinets:
- Bamboo or stainless steel worktop
- LED lighting
- Slatwall backsplash for hanging items
- Some pieces have wheels
- Locker cabinets for increased height storage needs, perfect for golf clubs
- Tool trays
- Integrated features for lighting and plumbing fixtures
Pros:
- Heavy-duty steel construction
- Legs are adjustable for height and leveling
- Multiple color choices including black, red, white, and gray
- Locking cabinet doors and drawers
15. Greenvelly Storage Cabinet
This 2-door cabinet is the best option for metal freestanding storage on a budget. With a weight capacity of 180 pounds per shelf and a size of 5’ tall, 3’ wide, and 18” deep a lot of items can be stored in this cabinet.
Pros:
- 4 adjustable shelves
- 2 doors and lock
- Good storage size – 18″D x 36″W x 72″H
- 180 lbs per shelf
This is a great deal for a steel storage cabinet. I could not build this for that same price with today’s building costs.
Plastic Cabinet Style Storage
Sometimes, plastic storage units are the best garage shelving, especially for staying on a budget and being able to assemble and move with only one person. Plus, plastic can be used in the garage without worry about dampness causing issues.
16. Sterilite 4-Shelf Cabinet
This is a good option for plastic shelving and is affordable and easy to assemble. The downside is it won’t hold super heavy items but will be ideal for storing all the smaller items or lighter stuff we all seem to have.
This is a good option for plastic shelving and is affordable and easy to assemble.
Pros:
- 4 adjustable shelves
- Made in USA
- Easy to assemble
- Great reviews on Amazon
Cons:
- Not made for heavy items, max 40 lbs per shelf
For assembling any of the following plastic storage units, it might be helpful to have a rubber mallet or another item that you can use as a hammer that won’t damage the plastic. Sometimes, it’s hard to get plastic fittings to click into place without using something stiffer than a hand.
17. Rubbermaid Freestanding Storage Cabinet
A plastic unit by Rubbermaid that has adequate storage space and a total weight limit of 690 pounds. (We assume that is equivalent to 172.5 lbs per shelf if divided by four shelves.) Note that the listing says five shelves, but there are only four shelves inside the cabinet. They must be counting the top as the fifth shelf.
A plastic unit by Rubbermaid that has adequate storage space and a total weight limit of 690 pounds. (We assume that is equivalent to 172.5 lbs per shelf if divided by four shelves.) Note that the listing says five shelves, but there are only four shelves inside the cabinet. They must be counting the top as the fifth shelf.
Pros:
- 4 shelves
- Lockable doors
- Decent storage size – 18″D x 36″W x 72″H
- Easy assembly with no tools
Let the Organizing Begin!
Now that you have the best garage shelving for your space, let the organizing begin!
Organizing a garage can often be a daunting project, but just starting with one area can help make it a more useful space and will likely encourage you to continue throughout the entire garage.
What are the benefits of installing garage shelving?
Increased storage space
One of the key benefits of organizing your garage with the best garage shelving ideas is the increased storage space it offers. With the right shelving system, you can maximize every inch of available space in your garage. This means you can store more items and keep them neatly organized.
Whether you have tools, sports equipment, or gardening supplies, having proper shelving allows you to create designated areas for each category, making it easier to find what you need when you need it.
By utilizing the vertical space in your garage, you can free up valuable floor space and create a clutter-free environment. With increased storage space, you can finally put an end to the chaos and enjoy a more organized garage.
Easy access to tools and equipment
Another benefit of an organized garage is the ease of access to tools and equipment. No more rummaging through piles of clutter or searching in multiple places for that screwdriver or hammer.
With the right shelving, you can organize your tools in a way that allows for quick and efficient access. Whether it’s a set of wrenches, a power drill, or a tape measure, having them easily accessible can save you time and frustration. Plus, it helps to maintain the condition and longevity of your tools, ensuring they are always ready for use.
FAQS
Is it cheaper to buy or build garage shelves?
It is often cheaper to buy garage shelves rather than build them unless you already have the tools, knowledge, and time and possibly even access to reduced prices or even free materials.
What is a good shelf height for a garage?
Freestanding shelf units can be about 72” without having to be secured to the wall. However, the width of the storage unit matters also. The narrower it is, the shorter it must be so it doesn’t fall over. Shelf height can go as high as the ceiling if shelving is anchored to wall studs and/or ceiling rafters.
Wall-mounted shelving is best at a height over the tallest vehicle’s cab, so usually 6’ and up.
How to organize garage shelves
Creating an organized and efficient garage not only maximizes your storage space but also makes it easier to find and access your tools and equipment. Here are some inspiring ideas to help you achieve this:
- Utilize vertical space: Install wall-mounted shelves, racks, and hooks to make the most of your vertical space. This keeps items off the floor and creates a cleaner and more organized look.
- Use clear containers and labels: Transparent storage containers allow you to see the contents at a glance, making it easier to find what you need. Labeling each container helps maintain order and makes it simpler to return items to their designated spots.
- Create zones: Divide your garage into functional zones, such as a gardening area, automotive section, and workbench zone. This helps streamline your workflow and keeps related items together.
- Take advantage of hidden spaces: Utilize the space above your garage door or create custom shelving in the nooks and corners of your garage. These often-neglected areas provide valuable storage opportunities.
By implementing these inspiring ideas, you can transform your garage into a well-organized and efficient space that meets all your storage needs.