7 Key Factors that Determine the Ideal Shelf Spacing for Your Garage

Finding the Ideal Shelf Setup

When it comes to optimising the storage in your garage, one of the key elements to consider is shelf spacing. Shelf spacing or the number of shelves per storage unit, along with the right garage shelving, can make a world of difference to maximizing your garage's storage potential.

In this post, we'll explore the ins and outs of garage shelf height and spacing, offering valuable insights to help you achieve the perfect setup for your needs.

Why Is Garage Shelf Spacing Important?

Before going into specifics, let's understand why optimizing your storage space with suitable shelf spacing matters:

1. Efficiency: Proper spacing ensures the efficient use of space, allowing you to store stuff while keeping those items accessible.
   
   
2. Safety: Well-spaced garage shelves reduce the risk of items falling or becoming disorganized, which promotes a safer garage environment.
   
   
3. Organization: Finding the right balance between shelf height and gaps between shelves is essential for keeping your garage tidy and organized.
   
   
4. Versatility: The ideal shelf spacing accommodates various item sizes, from small tools to large plastic tubs and everything in between.

7 Steps to Determine the Ideal Garage Shelf Spacing and Shelf Height

1. Inventory Assessment

Begin by taking stock of what you plan to store in your garage. Categorize like items together e.g. sporting equipment, tools etc. Then break them down by size, weight, and frequency of use. This will help you understand your storage needs better.

2. Draw a plan of Your Garage

Measure the dimensions of your garage, including ceiling height, garage walls and floor space (width and depth). Draw up a floorplan and plan of the storage along the walls and allocate your item categories to specific areas of the garage. Allow space to move around the car and account for any obstacles like garage door mechanisms, lighting fixtures, or power outlets that may affect shelf placement. Consider planning around garage doors to ensure they don't obstruct your shelving layout.

3. Shelving Unit Selection

Selecting the right garage shelving units is crucial for organizing a diverse range of items, from tools to sporting goods. Choose appropriate shelving units that match your garage dimensions and storage requirements. Multiple storage racks that are deep enough with the required maximum load bearing along with cabinets chosen to specifically to put away the items you need to store will provide the best result.

3.1 Adjustable Shelves

Adjustable longspan shelving units, like our heavy duty unit shown below, are ideal for this kind of customization. Adjustable shelving allows you to set the spacing between shelves to whatever height you need (you don't need to be stuck with even spaced shelves).

3.2 Assembly

A side benefit of metal adjustable shelving is that it is both easy to assemble without tools and easy to disassemble and prepare flat packed for transport to a new location, if you need to move.

We also have a quality, white powdercoated version with adjustable shelves (see below).

The white powdercoat finish is a versatile option when trying to fit a particular colour scheme.

4. Spacing Between Shelves

When planning shelf spacing, consider the following guidelines for how much space is needed to store various items efficiently.

• Heavy Items: For heavier items like power tools, paint cans, or car parts, aim for a shelf spacing of 30-45cm. This ensures stability and easy access.
• Medium Items: Items like most storage totes, gardening supplies, or camping gear can have shelves spaced 45-60cm apart.
• Light and Bulky Items: Leave larger gaps of 60-90cm for lighter, bulkier items like plastic totes, sports equipment or Christmas decorations.

5. Safety Measures

Anchor your shelving units securely to the floor via holes in the footplates (see image below) or screw the uprights to the wall to prevent accidents, especially if you're storing heavy or potentially hazardous items on an uneven floor.

6. Accessibility

Go as high as you can with your shelving units, while still ensuring that the top shelf allows enough clearance for taller items. Also make sure the lower shelves are placed for easy access, while ensuring the bottom shelf is high enough above the floor for easy accessibility and adequate clearance.

7. Future Expansion

Leave some room for growth. Garage storage needs tend to evolve, so having extra shelf space available can prevent overcrowding.



Ensure you use safety pins or safety locks, so that your shelving is a stable and reliable structure once assembled. For heavy-duty storage, consider metal shelves for their durability, access and weight capacity.

In Summary: Maximising Storage Space

Achieving the ideal shelf spacing for your garage is crucial for maintaining a well-organized and functional space. By following the 7 steps above and tailoring your shelving setup to your specific needs, you can transform a garage that has too much stuff on the floor into an efficient and clutter-free zone that enhances its overall functionality.

The key to getting your shelf spacing right is striking a balance between accessibility, safety, and the efficient use of space. Once balanced, your garage can become a well-organized space where you can easily park your car as well as store and find your belongings.

Shop and compare our extensive range of steel, longspan shelving here for efficient storage and simple garage installation. You can contact us for detailed information or a quotation. We can deliver to most places in Australia.